WHEN YOU FALL at the ends of the television consumer spectrum – whether it’s a die-hard gamer or a stubborn Luddite – choosing a set is simple: you go there even if it dominates the room, or you don’t. ‘get nothing at all. But what if, like most of us, you’re somewhere in the middle? When it comes to out-of-the-box repairs, few are less intrusive than Frame, Samsung’s “lifestyle” TV designed to look like a picture hanging on the wall. But if even a fake Modigliani is too visually bulky for you, the frame might not go far enough. The good news: there are alternatives. Namely, a handful of ultra-discreet sets that offer a glimpse of what the future of “invisible” audiovisual might hold in store. The bad news: For now, at least they’re going to cost you more (sometimes, a lot more). Is it worth splurging? We spoke with tech experts, interior designers, and savvy homeowners to learn more about the Frame and its rivals.
The modern classic
When Henry and Inell Chase set up their new home in Arroyo Grande, Calif., Last year, their TV selection focused more on must-haves than must-haves. “We just knew we didn’t want something that hung like a big black hole in the wall,” Mr. Chase said.
WHEN YOU FALL at the ends of the television consumer spectrum – whether it’s a die-hard gamer or a stubborn Luddite – choosing a set is simple: you go there even if it dominates the room, or you don’t. ‘get nothing at all. But what if, like most of us, you’re somewhere in the middle? When it comes to out-of-the-box repairs, few are less intrusive than Frame, Samsung’s “lifestyle” TV designed to look like a picture hanging on the wall. But if even a fake Modigliani is too visually bulky for you, the frame might not go far enough. The good news: there are alternatives. Namely, a handful of ultra-discreet sets that offer a glimpse of what the future of “invisible” audiovisual might hold in store. The bad news: For now, at least they’re going to cost you more (sometimes, a lot more). Is it worth splurging? We spoke with tech experts, interior designers, and savvy homeowners to learn more about the Frame and its rivals.
The modern classic
When Henry and Inell Chase set up their new home in Arroyo Grande, Calif., Last year, their TV selection focused more on must-haves than must-haves. “We just knew we didn’t want something that hung like a big black hole in the wall,” Mr. Chase said.