With analysts such as IDC forecasting that widescreen panels will make up more than 75% of the visual display market by 2011, vendors including ViewSonic, a worldwide leader in the field of visual technologies, are capitalizing on the growing demand for ‘big and wide’ solutions from both businesses and consumers across the Middle East.

IDC estimates current market share for widescreen displays at 33% for 2007, up from 9% in 2006, with growth in 2008 expected to hit 56% . Regional demand for ‘big and wide’ technologies is set to match or exceed these forecasts, according to ViewSonic’s Middle East director.

“There are several key market factors driving up regional interest in ‘big and wide’ displays. For professionals, new operating systems such as Windows Vista and the need to view A4 documents in a side-by-side format are boosting corporate uptake of the widescreen format, plus the larger the desktop screen means that more information can be displayed, which in turn can improve enterprise efficiency.” said Aaron Fright, Regional Director, ViewSonic Middle East & Africa.

“The consumer market is opting for ‘big and wide’ because of more users using their displays for more applications in the home or even home office and the vast array of digital rich content being displayed in the home, including gaming, web casting, downloading data or basic educational or office tools, means that the bigger the display the more enjoyable the visual experience will be, especially for the Middle East’s burgeoning youth population.”

According to IDC, the 19-inch widescreen is the fastest moving model in the market and is predicted to soon become mainstream, as it combines both a wide format and a more affordable price point. Vendors such as ViewSonic predict that the 22-inch widescreen is on course to be the next rising star as larger monitors become commonplace and prices fall accordingly.

“In keeping with the regional demand for ‘big and wide’ products, ViewSonic’s 19-inch and above displays can be utilized as both TV and PC screens,” said Fright. “This enables us to support gamers within the market while also benefiting both home and commercial users. We generate a valuable digital working environment for the entire region and meet a range of market needs with our premium displays that maximise rich media content and improve work efficiency.”

ViewSonic’s ‘Big and Wide’ campaign includes the latest widescreen large format displays, ultra-portable projectors and new home cinema products.