Are curved screens really as immersive as they're made out to be? We're yet to be convinced, but displays as eye-catching as the Philips Brilliance Curved UltraWide LCD ensure we're willing to give the tech a go.
Unveiled at CES 2015, Philips' latest offering for PC users touts a gently curved 34.1in screen that envelops the user. The display, model number BDM3490UC, sports an UltraWide QHD 3,440x1,440 resolution and a 21:9 aspect ratio that makes it ideal for either multi-tasking or viewing cinematic content.
Philips has used an IPS panel to deliver a 60Hz refresh rate and wide viewing angles, and the screen is well-stocked with inputs and outputs. Three HDMI ports sit alongside a DisplayPort 1.2 connector, and Philips incorporates a customary USB hub with four SuperSpeed 3.0 ports. MultiView technology has also made the cut, meaning two devices can be connected at any one time for side-by-side viewing.
Built-in stereo speakers and a headphone jack are at hand for audio duties, and the stylish stand offers simple back/forth tilt. There's sadly no swivel or height adjustment, and, more importantly, no mention of price or availability.
| SPECIFICATION | BDM3490UC |
|---|---|
| LCD panel type | AH-IPS LCD |
| Backlight type | W-LED system |
| Panel Size | 34.1 inch / 86.7 cm |
| Aspect ratio | 21:9 |
| Optimum resolution | 3440 x 1440 @ 60Hz |
| SmartResponse (typical) | 5 ms (Grey to Grey) |
| Response time (typical) | 14 ms(Grey to Grey) |
| Brightness (typical) | 300 cd/m² |
| Contrast ratio (typical) | 1,000:1 |
| SmartContrast | 50M:1 |
| Viewing angle | 178º (H) / 178º (V) @ C/R > 10 |
| Display colours | 1.07 billion colors (8 bits +FRC) |
| MHL | 1080P @ 60Hz |
| Signal Input | DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI 2.0 x 1, HDMI 1.4 (w/MHL) x 1, HDMI 1.4 x 1 |
| USB | USB 3.0 x 4 (1 with BC 1.2 Fast Charging) |
| Audio In/Out | PC audio-in, headphone out |
| Built-in speakers | 7 W x 2 with DTS sound |
| Tilt | -5/20 degree |
| Power supply | External |
| Colour | Black |
| Finish | Glossy |
