September 1, 2023, 10:08 am | Read time: 4 minutes
A TV, a PC monitor, or perhaps an oversized tablet? The new screen in its own case from LG raises some questions. TECHBOOK had the chance to take a closer look at the device and has the answers.
Recently, LG introduced the quirky StanbyME Go, and now you can check out the device at the IFA. Pre-orders are already underway in the U.S., and later this year, the unusual TV is expected to arrive in Germany. What makes this “TV” so special? It comes in its own case, features a touchscreen, and has a built-in battery. This is supposed to offer entirely new interaction possibilities–from a movie night out of the trunk to a game session with the family.
The Display from the Case
LG itself does not refer to the StanbyME Go as a TV, but as a “portable smart touchscreen.” The device comes with a 27-inch display with 1080p resolution and 60 hertz, but it’s a complete entertainment package with 4-channel speakers with 20 watts, a built-in battery, and a touchscreen. The whole thing is housed in a case that, with dimensions of 62 x 36.1 x 3 cm and a weight of 12.7 kg, can still be considered portable.
In the case, besides the screen, there’s also a classic TV remote control. Contrary to what LG might have us believe, the StanbyME Go is essentially a TV–albeit a highly customized one. It runs on LG’s own webOS operating system, not Android, which is also used on smart TVs. This gives users access to numerous apps and streaming services from Apple, Disney, Netflix, Amazon, Spotify, and YouTube. Voice control is also possible, and Apple AirPlay is included. So, the smartphone display can be projected onto the big screen.
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Portable and Versatile
But its functionality goes beyond that of a classic TV. The display can be folded out of the case at a 90-degree angle–but it also has a hinge that allows it to be adjusted continuously upward. This way, the screen can be placed in the trunk for a party by the lake or positioned higher as a monitor for business presentations.
Even a few games–LG shows a family playing chess in the announcement video–are pre-installed on the StanbyME Go. Thanks to an integrated swivel joint, the screen can also be used for social media. Additionally, eight “ambient themes” are installed, showing things like a crackling fire or the ocean. For music playback, the display can show a virtual turntable–which, at least in pictures, looks a bit kitschy.
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Practical Companion or Just a Party Trick?
The LG StanbyME Go is priced at $999.99 in the U.S. (about 915 euros, excluding VAT). The manufacturer could not provide a price for Germany upon request, but the launch is planned for the fourth quarter.
The biggest limitation of the portable device with a 27-inch panel and Full HD resolution is its limited battery life. According to LG, the device lasts just three hours, and likely even less at full volume. This means the party in the park ends quickly, and even a movie night while camping pushes the limits. Charging is done via a classic round plug–and unfortunately not via USB-C.
For most, a classic smart TV is the better choice–devices with better OLED panels, 4K resolution, and 55-inch diagonals are already available in this price range. However, for those looking for an extraordinary party trick, the LG StanbyME Go might be of interest.