Back in January, Panasonic was showing off its new plasma line that allowed viewers to pass the time during commercial breaks by surfing the web. Now those models have release dates—or release “seasons.”

All four of the models in the PZ850 series feature VIERA CAST, a service that provides access to YouTube, Google’s Picasa Web Album and Bloomberg. OK, it’s limited, but it’s a lot better than another offer to become a massage therapist. 

“Imagine being able to press a button and see a family member’s photos from their vacation right on your own large-screen plasma or enjoy one of the many intriguing videos found on You Tube from the comfort of your easy chair,” said Bob Perry, senior VP for Panasonic. “The VIERA PZ850 with VIERA CAST makes it all possible quickly and easily.”

The PZ850 series will come in four sizes: 46, 50, 56 and 65 inches. Other specs include an SD memory card slot, a 30,000:1 native contrast ratio (1,000,000:1 for dynamic), 24p native reproduction, and a Game Mode for displaying fast images and minimizing lag time.

Expect the TH-50PZ850 ($3499.95) and TH-46PZ850U ($3099.95) to shelter you from the summer sun; the TH-65PZ850 ($7999.95) and TH-58PZ850 ($4299.95) will be available this fall.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.