Vizio launches 2016 M series with Dolby Vision & Google Cast

Vizio launches 2016 M series with Dolby Vision & Google Cast

25 Apr 2016 | Rasmus Larsen |

Vizio has unveiled its new M series for 2016 and as expected it incorporates the Google Cast based platform that was first introduced in the P series. The M series TVs also feature Dolby Vision support and local dimming.

SmartCast and Dolby Vision

Vizio recently introduced its new P series and in a surprising turn of events the company completely abandoned the old tuner + app platform for a new platform based entirely on Google Cast. The 2016 M series TVs are built on the same platform.

All of the TVs are based on LCD panels with a 64-zone full-array local dimming system (32 in 50”), making them capable of supporting HDR (high dynamic range). Vizio explains that it has partnered with Dolby to integrate Dolby Vision for a premium HDR experience. The TVs also obviously feature 4K resolution. However, you will not get the wide color gamut that is offered in the more expensive P series models.

There is no tuner in the M series TVs. Vizio imagines that you will stream everything over the internet. The company has partnered with Google to build a new platform based on Google Cast, which means that you use a tablet to control the TV. Once you have found something that you want to watch you press the “cast” button to send it to the big screen. A 6” Android based tablet is included in the box. Vizio calls it “SmartCast”.

Netflix and Vudu offer content in 4K and HDR but Amazon is not yet supported on Google Cast, and therefore not on Vizio’s TVs.

All of the models feature VA LCD panels, except the 60” which is based on an IPS LCD panel.

Prices start at $849 or a 50” TVs and go up to $3999 for an 80” model. More information is available at vizio.com. Vizio says that the TVs will start shipping “soon”.