TCL is well-reputed brand in the global TV industry. Operating in over 160 markets globally, TCL also holds a considerable share in the Indian market, and is slowly transitioning into a company whose portfolio includes different smart home appliances, in addition to their current vested interests in developing state-of-the-art smart TVs. T3 India had a chance to speak to Mr. Vijay Kumar Mikkilineni, Senior Marketing Manager & AC (Sales Category) – Business Head, TCL who shared a few insights on TCL’s journey and plan.
T3: When it comes to your other products like washing machines, and air treatment – do you plan to roll out products with smart features integrated in them? If yes, what kinds of features are you looking to include in the new-generation products? If not, what do you think is TCL’s way forward in penetrating this industry?
VKM: We have launched Ocarina smart air conditioner series that is equipped with bipolar ionic generator and UVC sterilization pro, smart air flow, saves energy upto 60% and makes sure that the air you breathe is free from dust, allergens and bacteria. TCL is also going to launch washing machine in the quarter four of this year, the aim is now to be a home appliances brand instead of just being a TV brand.
T3: The Smart TV market is a saturated one, what according to you makes TCL stand out from the plethora of options customers are bombarded with? What are your key USPs and how do you rate your customer service in the country? Would you kindly share any plans about the changes you’d like to implement and why you had to make that decision?
VKM: TCL is a brand that focuses on introducing world class technologies for the Indian customers within a suitable price change, we are not about quantity only but also quality. We constantly aim to expand our product portfolio in the Indian market. First with our launching of products with latest technologies (Mini LED, 8K, Google TV), secondly, partnering with local factories to support government’s “Make in India” Initiative and to connect with the audience as a brand and continue to do some sports marketing by sponsoring Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
T3: What, according to you, is the future of the Smart TV and how is TCL going to make room for the changes?
VKM: The future of smart TV will be lot more AI integrated, it is no more a commodity just for entertainment but it also entails the aspect of smart living. In-home entertainment aspect drives displays like QLED, Mini LED, and also sound aspect. OTT platforms are increasing and TVs are the medium are a medium to access huge repertoire of content. The recent launch of TCL smart TVs are trend setter we bring the first Android 11 TVs, Mini LED and QLED TVs, and also inbuilt camera which is a revolutionizing element in itself, we are making life smarter and better with our products.
T3: Can you also please elaborate on a few USPs of your smart products/TVs? What are the features you are looking to upgrade in the coming months and why?
VKM: Our TVs are Google assistant enabled, 4K QLED, camera affixed to TVs for video calling and more, we will soon upgrade our TVs to Google TVs.
T3: Where would you like to see TCL placed in the Indian market in the next few years? Are you happy with its current progress? Would you be kind enough to share a few pointers from your growth strategy that you are implementing for the coming years? –
VKM: Our aim is to be among the top 3 brand in India just like we are right now globally, our strategy is to first have strong grip over tier cities and we are now penetrating tier two cities, we want to create connection so deeply rooted that people not only value us for our pricing but for our technology quality. Right now we are focused and stable in our position.
Leave a Reply