…But Does It Do the Dishes?

…But Does It Do the Dishes?
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​Monitors are the Rodney Dangerfield of the CE space, typically a simple rectangular display plugged into a PC, doing little other than converting information, video, or similar data into something visual.  Until a few years ago, they were merely those same simple boxes that have been on desks for over 70 years, although LCD monitors replaced CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitors around the turn of the century.  Gaming has helped the monitor gain a little respect, as requirements such as high refresh rates, high resolution, and wide formats, have pushed gaming monitors forward a bit, but CE brands, looking for ways to capitalize on the multitude of digital devices that surround us, are presenting us with another ‘smart’ device, the smart monitor.
So, what does a ‘smart’ monitor do?  Does it talk to your ‘smart’ refrigerator? (“I saw you talking with that new toaster last night.  She’s hot!”) Does it speak to your ‘smart’ doorbell? (“Get those kids off the front lawn!”).  None of the above, but here’s what the new Samsung M7 ‘Smart Monitor” can do, as an example.

1. Its 43”, so it’s the size of a medium size TV (4K).
2. It is directly connected to your Wi-Fi, which means you can view content from OTT or streaming services without it being connected to a PC.
3. It can be connected to a PC (Windows or Mac) and supports Microsoft 365 apps through the cloud.
4. Amazon (AMZN) Alexa, Google (GOOG) Assistant, and Samsung’s Bixby are all supported.
5. You can mirror your smartphone just by tapping it on the screen
6. It has USB Ports and Bluetooth and is rechargeable and the remote is battery and solar powered.

No longer do CE companies try to attract consumers to such devices by calling them ‘hubs’ (actually some still do), but such ‘smart’ devices are still vying for your attention and are getting closer to being the kind of device that serves a multitude of purposes, replacing your smartphone when you are home.  While you can buy a 43” 4K LCD TV for under $300, this ‘smart’ monitor can do a few things most TVs cannot, and cost a mere $578, but give it another year and you won’t be able to tell the difference between a TV and a ‘smart’ monitor.