Speaking with Sony Europe about their greenest TV

Earlier today, Tim Page, Senior Technology Marketing Manager at Sony Europe and Gadgetell conducted an interview over Twitter. Sony Europe has introduced what they are calling their greenest TV ever. The Sony Bravia WE5 has some unique features that appeals to energy conscious people such as the “Presence Sensor.” The sensor actually checks if anyone is watching the television. If the TV determines that no one is watching, the screen will go black. The television will turn back on once you come back. If you leave for a long enough time, the television automatically goes into standby mode.

It’s a pretty cool idea even if you aren’t the most granola hippie. Why should the picture be on if you’re not in? Plus by saving energy, you’ll see a lower electricity bill.

Thanks for doing this twinterview. What makes the Sony WE5 the greenest ever television?
The WE5 has a few key green features – energy efficient HCFL backlight using 50% less power, presence sensor and energy saving switch

Could you explain how exactly the Presence Sensor works? Will the TV turn off if I’m too still in the room?
[The] presence sensor detects both heat & motion so the TV knows if you are watching it. If you leave the room the picture will switch off.

Why HCFL instead of LED for the backlight when others have gone with LED?
LED uses less power than CCFL, but HCFL is using 50% less power so much more efficient backlight for the same picture quality.

Will all of your televisions be following the WE5′s lead — will all Sony TVs become greener?
All Sony TVs/products are designed to be as eco-aware as possible; all new BRAVIAs have Eco Features & onscreen manuals.

Will moving in a green direction in TV production benefit Sony as a company during a leaner economic period?
People are more cost & eco aware, WE5 will save energy & cut your bills – at least €300 over 10 years.

Could you expand on which Eco Features will be available Bravia-wide?
Most Bravias have light sensors which adapt brightness, power saving modes & operating power.

Where can people go to find out more about the WE5?
The best place is to check out the Sony website which contains a WE5 video, which is also on YouTube.

Learn more: [Sony Bravia WE5]