Samsung unveils latest ‘TV for Africa’

Samsung Electronics moves to tighten its grip on the African market with a new television for the continent.

At the seventh Samsung African Forum 2016 in Monaco, France, the South Korean firm said its sixth model of TV localised for Africa offers three unique features.

First, it offers protection against irregular and high voltages, lightning, and damage caused by humidity, dust and insects. Second, it can detect and remove broadcast interference, thus reducing digital noise and enhancing colour and contrast for clearer video.

The third feature was a result of focus group studies across the continent, Corrie Labuschagne, the firm’s Africa regional product manager, visual display, said. The sound mirroring feature enables viewers wirelessly connect their mobile phones to the TV, turning the latter into a music station.

“Consumers are spending a lot of time with their families and friends in the house, and music is very important to them,” said Mr Labuschagne.

“We believe that to develop product solutions for our consumers, we must address the unique local needs in Africa. It is of highest importance that we tailor innovation.”

The company is looking to shrug off a global slowdown last year that also affected sales in Kenya, which dipped by 5 to 10 per cent, according to Samsung Electronics East Africa Managing Director Junghyun Park.