Panasonic Plasma TV Owners Phone Home By Darryl Wilkinson June 12, 2006 — Panasonic thinks - and rightly so - that a lot of consumers haven't got a clue as to what HDTV really is or how to get real HDTV content. The company also says they expect almost three million of these clueless people (some of them probably understand what's going on, but a lot more of them don't) will purchase plasma TVs this year. For those smart enough to buy a Panasonic plasma HDTV, the manufacturer will offer the Panasonic Plasma Concierge program.

While the program won't book a Broadway show or call a taxi for you, Panasonic says the new service will offer free live telephone access to specialized plasma TV consultants who will be able to provide advice on set-up, operation, troubleshooting, integration of the plasma TV with a home theater system's components, and other support issues. When in-home service is required, Panasonic says a representative will call within 24 hours to schedule the visit. Other services are expected to be available in September, such as online chat (no pretending to be someone other than you really are, please), personalized product information, and "exclusive" online content.

You'll also receive a cool Panasonic Plasma Concierge Benefits Card with a dedicated toll-free number you can call when you have questions or when you're lonely and there's nothing new on TV to watch. (You can also try to use the card the next time you go to the doctor's office. It is a benefits card, after all. Well, it's worth a try, anyway...)