JUNE 17 – The Indian arm of South Korea’s LG Electronics Inc says it has begun selling a TV with a feature that repels mosquitoes, which spread diseases such as malaria, Zika and dengue.The company said late Thursday in Seoul the TV tagged: “Mosquito Away Technology” uses ultrasonic waves that are inaudible to humans but cause mosquitoes to fly away.
The same technology, which was certified as effective by an independent laboratory near Chennai, India, has been used by LG in air conditioners and washing machines, the company said.
The technology, which also functions when the TV is switched off, is available in two models, priced at 26,500 rupees and 47,500 rupees (394 dollars and 706 dollars).
The TV is targeted at lower-income consumers living in conditions that will make them vulnerable to mosquitoes.
It will go on sale next month in the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
Kim Sang-yeol, an LG Electronics official, said there were no plans for now to market it elsewhere.
The company began developing the set before the outbreak of the Zika virus in Latin America, which has fueled concern over safety at the Olympic Games set to begin in August in Rio de Janeiro.
LG said on its website that “the TV is not intended to replace other mosquito-deterrent devices.’’
