By Star Chang, posted Jul 13, 2012 at 7:21 AM, 1,036 views,

Chinese Manufacturer Offers World’s First Customizable TVs

Skyworth, one of the top three television manufacturers in China, has developed a new customer-to-business sales model that allows Chinese consumers to order customized televisions through the web at relatively low-prices. Hardware and software configuration, as well as decorative features, can be tailor-made by consumers, based on two main design themes …

Skyworth teamed up with local online sellers to create a specialized e-commerce platform through which consumers can order their customize televisions. The manufacturer produces and delivers the TVs accordingly. It takes one to two weeks to assemble and deliver a customized TV. The DIY model had attracted young and wealthy consumers in China, who tend to value a more individualistic aesthetic. Skyworth has already sold about 2000 customize TVs in two weeks time. A low-end specification 42-inch LED TV which used LG panel can cost 2100 yuan (US$329) only. The market size is expected to reach a sale of 700,000 units a year.

The idea for customized TVs arose from those semi-underground factories which produce knock-off product, and it received relatively little attention from the industry. Several years ago, home appliance stores in Guangzhou and Shenzhen began assembling televisions, allowing consumers to choose their own spare parts and components. In addition to making use of its low-price strategy, Skyworth plans to upgrade its products and improve its brand influence and after-sales services to spur future growth.

SOURCE: 21cbr.com (Chinese translated)