Samsung Electronics, the world’s largest manufacturer of LCD displays, last week announced intention to offer so-called zero-pixel-defect warranty on its LCD monitors. The campaign only applies to devices acquired in 2005 and only in South Korea, however, the precedent may mean more favourable warranties worldwide.

In general, LCD makers have regarded a panel with less than six defective pixels as normal. Under the policy, which is to be effective from January 1, 2005, Samsung Electronics said it would replace LCD monitors for free if customers find a single defective pixel in the flat-panel screens within six months of purchase. However, the displays should be made in the second half of 2004 or later and purchased after January, 1, 2005.

Samsung Electronics’s move is targeted to offer its clients premium quality LCDs and bring the company a competitive advantage over rivals. Samsung Electronics said the company did not decide yet whether to expand the policy worldwide, Forbes reports.

Samsung Electronics regained the top position in the global liquid crystal display (LCD) market last month from LG.Philips LCD, according to the Texas-based display market research firm, DisplaySearch.

The electronics giant’s LCD sales (LCDs with sizes greater than 10”) amounted to 3.07 million units in November, up 13.5% from October, 2004, outstripping LG.Philips LCD by 50 000 units. Samsung Electronics’ revenue from its LCD sales reached $853 million in November, while LG.Philips LCD’s sales totaled $656 million.

Samsung Electronics is forecast to cement its top position in 2004 as its cumulative LCD sales during the first 11 months of the year totaled 28.03 million units ($7.31 billion), greater than LG.Philips LCD’s 24.88 million units ($6.53 billion).