The new Samsung SyncMaster displays come in sizes of 40", 46", 70" and 82" respectively, and Ron Hulse, vice-president, IT marketing with Samsung Electronics Canada, boasts they're the first LFDs to offer both integrated high-quality speakers and touchscreen capability.

"There's been a really strong demand building for getting that touch capability in a large format screen, but there's been no manufacturer bringing such products out," said Hulse. To get touch in an LFD before, a partner would have to go to a third-party that would remove the screen and add the touchscreen capability, which would take time and would also raise warranty issues.

"We've eliminated all that by building it ourselves, and it makes what was a relatively complicated implementation much easier for the partner."

By bringing touch to the already burgeoning digital signage market, Hulse said partners are able to offer a whole new generation of digital signage capabilities to their clients, potentially opening new markets as well.

"You're now starting to see the potential of these things," said Hulse. "Before, digital signage was simply the replacement of a flat image. Then it moved to video or streaming media. Now, instead of just relaying information, it's becoming much more of a two-way interactive experience."