Smaller Panasonic PZ81 TVs to be released

Panasonic has announced it is planning to release 32-inch and 37-inch Freesat-enabled TVs that will follow the launch of its PZ81 range, it has been reported.

Plasma models of the PZ81, which will include integrated tuners to receive Freesat satellite TV channels, will go on sale in June with 42-inch, 46-inch and 50-inch screens.

However, a spokesman for the company told TechRadar: "The 32-inch and 37-inch models will be arriving in October."

The PZ81 range includes SD slots, 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast and Dolby 5.1 surround sound.

Freesat, a joint satellite television service from the BBC and ITV, offers high-definition TV broadcasts for a one off charge, rather than by subscription.

A Freesat set-top box and satellite dish will be needed to receive the service for most users.

However, Panasonic, with its PZ81 range, is the first TV maker to offer a dedicated Freesat plasma TV screen, PC Advisor reports.