Lenovo equips 4k smart TVs with interchangeable Tegra K1 modules

Lenovo releases 4k televisions in China that are equipped with an upgrade option for smart TV functionality via so-called Smart Card modules. The modules contain a Tegra K1 soc from the company Nvidia.

Lenovo has shown the 4K TVs at the GTC 2014 trade show in California, Engadget reports. The upgrade options with the Smart Card modules are available for the Terminator S9, a 50″ 4k TV with smart TV functionality. The smart TV software runs on Android 4.2, but using the upgrade modules, the TV must be in be able to run more powerful smart TV software in the future, as well as new Android versions.

The Smart Card module shown with its proprietary 70-pin connector slides into a slot on the back of the Terminator S9. The module, which also contains a USB connection and an SD card reader, is internally equipped with a Tegra K1 soc from Nvidia. The Smart Card module should make it possible to run the Terminator S9 on Android 4.4. Lenovo also supplies a Bluetooth remote control that works on the basis of hand gestures with the Smart Card. The control by means of this remote control is similar to that of the Magic Remote from LG.

Lenovo takes a similar approach with the upgrade kits as Samsung with its Evolution Kits. However, the 4k televisions will initially only be on the market in China. The Terminator S9 is priced there of 6000 yuan, or 700 euros, and the expansion module costs almost 1000 yuan, converted 120 euros.