The RCA brand has been a household name in the world of consumer electronics for over a century. Founded in 1919, Radio Corporation of America (RCA) has been synonymous with quality and innovation in the radio, television, and recording industries. However, in recent years, the company has undergone significant changes, leaving many consumers wondering: who makes RCA TVs now?
A Brief History Of RCA
To understand the current state of RCA TVs, it’s essential to take a step back and explore the company’s rich history. RCA was founded in 1919 as a subsidiary of General Electric (GE) to exploit the radio patents held by GE. Over the years, RCA grew to become a leading manufacturer of radios, televisions, and other consumer electronics. In the 1950s and 1960s, RCA became a pioneer in the development of color television, introducing the first color TV system in 1950.
In the 1980s, RCA faced stiff competition from foreign manufacturers, leading to a significant decline in its market share. In 1986, the company was acquired by General Electric, which continued to operate RCA as a subsidiary. However, in 1997, GE sold RCA to Thomson SA, a French multinational company, for $1.3 billion.
The Thomson Era: A Shift In Focus
During the Thomson era, RCA underwent significant changes. Thomson continued to produce RCA-branded TVs, but the company’s focus shifted from manufacturing to licensing. Thomson licensed the RCA brand to other companies, allowing them to produce and market RCA-branded products. This strategy enabled Thomson to generate revenue from royalties while minimizing the costs associated with manufacturing and marketing.
In 2010, Thomson sold its TV manufacturing business to the Chinese company, TPV Technology. TPV continued to produce RCA-branded TVs, but the company’s focus remained on producing budget-friendly TVs for emerging markets.
The Rise Of OEM Manufacturers
In recent years, the TV manufacturing landscape has undergone a significant transformation. The rise of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) has changed the way TVs are produced and marketed. OEMs are companies that design and manufacture products for other companies, which then brand and sell them as their own.
In the case of RCA TVs, several OEM manufacturers have been involved in producing RCA-branded TVs over the years. These manufacturers include:
- Tongfang Global: A Chinese company that has produced RCA-branded TVs since the early 2000s.
- Element Electronics: An American company that has produced RCA-branded TVs since 2013.
- Curtis International: A Canadian company that has produced RCA-branded TVs since 2015.
These OEM manufacturers design, manufacture, and test RCA-branded TVs according to the specifications provided by the RCA brand owners. The TVs are then shipped to retailers, who sell them to consumers under the RCA brand name.
The Current State Of RCA TVs
So, who makes RCA TVs now? The answer is a complex one. While the RCA brand is still owned by Voxx International, a US-based company, the actual manufacturing process is outsourced to various OEM manufacturers.
Voxx International, formerly known as Audiovox, acquired the RCA brand in 2013 from Thomson SA. Since then, Voxx has focused on licensing the RCA brand to OEM manufacturers, who produce and market RCA-branded TVs.
In the US market, Element Electronics is the primary OEM manufacturer of RCA-branded TVs. Element Electronics is a US-based company that has been producing TVs for over 20 years. The company has a strong reputation for producing high-quality TVs at affordable prices.
In other regions, such as Canada and Latin America, Curtis International is the primary OEM manufacturer of RCA-branded TVs. Curtis International has been producing TVs for over 30 years and has a strong presence in the North American market.
What Does This Mean For Consumers?
The shift in the TV manufacturing landscape has significant implications for consumers. With multiple OEM manufacturers producing RCA-branded TVs, consumers may notice differences in quality, design, and features between different models.
However, the RCA brand remains committed to providing high-quality TVs at affordable prices. Voxx International, the brand owner, works closely with OEM manufacturers to ensure that all RCA-branded TVs meet the company’s quality and performance standards.
Conclusion
The story of RCA TVs is a complex one, with multiple twists and turns over the years. From its humble beginnings as a pioneer in the radio and television industries to its current status as a licensed brand, RCA has undergone significant changes.
While the company is no longer involved in the manufacturing process, the RCA brand remains a household name, synonymous with quality and innovation. With OEM manufacturers like Element Electronics and Curtis International producing high-quality TVs, consumers can continue to trust the RCA brand for their TV needs.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end smart TV, RCA has a range of products to suit your needs. So, the next time you’re in the market for a new TV, consider an RCA-branded TV from one of the many OEM manufacturers producing them today.
Who Currently Manufactures RCA TVs?
RCA TVs are currently manufactured by a company called Curtis International Ltd., which is a leading supplier of electronic products. They have a long-standing partnership with RCA, and have been producing RCA TVs for many years.
Curtis International Ltd. is based in Toronto, Canada, and has been in operation since 1992. They specialize in the design, development, and distribution of electronic products, including TVs, audio equipment, and other home entertainment devices. They have a strong reputation for producing high-quality products that meet the latest industry standards.
What Happened To The Original RCA Company?
The original RCA (Radio Corporation of America) company was founded in 1919 and was a leading player in the electronics industry for many decades. Over the years, the company went through significant changes, including mergers, acquisitions, and spin-offs.
In the 1980s, RCA was acquired by General Electric (GE), and later in 1997, GE sold the RCA brand to Thomson SA, a French electronics company. Thomson continued to produce RCA TVs and other electronic products until 2010, when the brand was sold to Voxx International Corporation. Since then, Curtis International Ltd. has been manufacturing RCA TVs under license from Voxx International Corporation.
Are RCA TVs Still Widely Available?
Yes, RCA TVs are still widely available in the market today. You can find them at various retailers, both online and offline, including major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. They offer a range of TVs, from budget-friendly options to more advanced models with features like 4K resolution and smart TV capabilities.
Despite the changes in ownership and manufacturing over the years, RCA TVs have managed to maintain a strong presence in the market. They are known for their affordability and reliability, making them a popular choice among consumers.
Have There Been Any Changes To The Quality Of RCA TVs?
There have been some changes to the quality of RCA TVs over the years, partly due to the changes in manufacturing and ownership. While some critics have noted a decline in quality, many users have reported being satisfied with their RCA TVs.
It’s worth noting that Curtis International Ltd., the current manufacturer, has made efforts to improve the quality of RCA TVs. They have invested in research and development, and have implemented quality control measures to ensure that their products meet high standards.
Can I Still Get Support For My Old RCA TV?
Yes, you can still get support for your old RCA TV, although the process may vary depending on the age of your TV and the manufacturer at the time. If your TV is still under warranty, you may be able to get support directly from the manufacturer or the retailer where you purchased it.
If your TV is no longer under warranty, you can try contacting Curtis International Ltd. or Voxx International Corporation for assistance. They may be able to provide you with repair options, spare parts, or troubleshooting guidance.
Are RCA TVs Compatible With Modern Streaming Services?
Yes, many RCA TVs are compatible with modern streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. In fact, many RCA TVs come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and streaming apps pre-installed, making it easy to access your favorite streaming services.
However, it’s always a good idea to check the specifications of your TV model to ensure that it is compatible with the streaming services you plan to use. You may also need to update your TV’s software or firmware to access the latest streaming services and features.
Can I Trust RCA TVs With My Personal Data?
RCA TVs, like many modern smart TVs, collect some personal data to enable features like streaming and voice control. However, Curtis International Ltd. and Voxx International Corporation, the current manufacturer and owner of the RCA brand, have implemented measures to protect user data and ensure compliance with data privacy regulations.
It’s still important to take steps to protect your personal data, such as reviewing the TV’s privacy settings, using strong passwords, and avoiding unauthorized access to your TV’s network.