Skip to main content

Panasonic is adding aptX-enabled Bluetooth for CD-quality wireless streaming from its TVs

panasonic raises wireless audio stakes viera tvs adds aptx codec bluetooh 65 inch 4k tv 2
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Those looking to connect wireless audio devices to their TV without sacrificing sound quality need to take a good look at Panasonic. That’s because the company recently made a deal with CSR for use of its aptX audio codec, — which makes good Bluetooth devices sound even better — adding the system to four models of its Viera TVs in varying sizes (six units in total). Panasonic claims it is one of the first brands to bring aptX on board.

You may have heard of aptX before. CSR has been around for awhile now, and claims over 250 brands now utilize the technology to make their Bluetooth devices sizzle with better sound quality. The system works by replicating the transmitted audio’s full frequency spectrum after its bit rate has been compressed for Bluetooth transmission, allowing for CD-quality audio resolution.

Recommended Videos

While that may not be all that helpful for that bankroll of low-resolution MP3s on your phone – iPhones and iPads aren’t even compatible with aptX – it could make a big difference when it comes to getting the most out of the wireless audio being piped out of your TV. For those who like to catch a late night movie with Bluetooth headphones, or just connect a sound bar without congesting their TV stand with extra wires, aptX could mean the difference between detailed, full sound reproduction, and a paltry wireless feed.

Samsung and LG include Bluetooth with many of their TVs, but the systems are proprietary, and only work within their own device families. However, Panasonic’s Bluetooth transmission is free to transmit to the entire Bluetooth ecosystem, and those Bluetooth devices with aptX capability will sound just that much better. .

“Consumers want to enjoy a rich wireless audio listening experience wherever they are and whatever device they’re listening through. Brands are recognizing this, which is why aptX continues to be integrated into new types of devices,”  says Anthony Murray, Senior VP, Business Group at CSR.

Look for aptX to be widely adopted by Panasonic’s Viera TV lineup in the near future. The company is hoping the addition of the technology – and widespread Bluetooth functionality – will give it one more weapon in the war for TV supremacy. And with Samsung and LG leading the pack right now, Panasonic needs all the help it can get.

Topics
Ryan Waniata
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Ryan Waniata is a multi-year veteran of the digital media industry, a lover of all things tech, audio, and TV, and a…
How to cancel Sling TV
Sling TV.

Sling TV delivers a top-notch streaming service filled with sports, movies, and plenty of shows to fall in love with. However, if you're not feeling the love after the season is over, it might be time to cancel your Sling TV subscription.

Sling TV is already one of the most affordable streaming options out there, thanks to its two-track system with Sling Orange and Sling Blue. While its well worth the price tag, especially compared with pricier live-streaming options like Hulu + Live TV, if you're not using the service, then it's time to cancel.

Read more
This smart 4K projector is nearly half-price in Walmart’s sale
The Wimius smart 4K projector on a desk.

If you've been thinking about installing a projector in your living room to create a cinematic experience, you won't want to miss this offer from Walmart. The Wimius smart 4K projector, which is originally priced at $360, is down by nearly half to only $190, for huge savings of $170. We're not sure how much time is remaining before this bargain ends though, so if you're interested, we highly recommend completing your purchase as soon as possible.

Why you should buy the Wimius smart 4K projector
Setting up a home theater projector is an excellent way to create a movie theater vibe at home, and you won't have to spend hundreds of dollars if you go for the Wimius smart 4K projector. Its projection size ranges from 50 inches to as large as 300 inches, so if you've got a big enough wall or projection screen, it will really be like you're watching movies at the cinema. The projector is capable of 4K Ultra HD resolution, and it has an extremely long lamp life of 200,000 hours so it will be a long time before you need to replace its bulb. It also offers auto focus and keystone correction technology for even better visuals.

Read more
These Sony OTC hearing aids offer optimized audio and all-day comfort
Man wearing Sony CRE-C10 OTC hearing aids.

There's a lot to be said about OTC or over-the-counter hearing aids. They're more accessible, usually because they're more affordable, and you don't need a prescription to get some. That's precisely why they're called "over-the-counter." Of course, they're really meant for mild to medium hearing loss, however. If you experience severe hearing loss you'll need to go to your local physician, as you might expect. But also one of the great things about this relatively new, untapped category of sound devices is that there are a lot of great options from brands you wouldn't expect. Take Sony, for instance, which has several OTC hearing aid options, and they're available at Best Buy of all places.

You can walk in, off the street, and walk out with them same-day, or buy them online and have them shipped to your house. How's that for excellent service and accessibility? But if you need a quick introduction to some of Sony's best OTC hearing aid options, we've got you covered.

Read more