The LCD TV market saw a rapid shift toward sizes larger than 40-inch at the end of 2011, as consumers, particularly in North America and China, took advantage of new sizes and more affordable prices, according to DisplaySearch. As larger sizes such as 46-, 47-, 55-, 60- and 65-inch are being adopted by consumers, panel makers are also developing other new large size TV panels, including 43-, 48-, 50-, 70-, and even 75-, 80-inch and larger.

In response to the strong end-market adoption, market research and consulting firm DisplaySearch has increased its forecast for LCD TV area demand. DisplaySearch indicated that LCD TV panel demand will reach 85 million square meters in 2012, nearly 2 percent higher than the previous forecast. DisplaySearch has also increased the area demand forecast from 2013 to 2018 to account for increased 40-inch and larger LCD TV demand.