Magnavox has over a century of history developing electronics for homes. Established in 1917, Magnavox developed formative technologies.
Major achievements included inventing the initial moving-coil loudspeaker and releasing the original home video game system, the Magnavox Odyssey.
During its highest periods, Magnavox also excelled in television production.
The early years
Magnavox’s founders were Edwin Pridham and Peter L. Jensen. The duo invented the moving-coil loudspeaker, a groundbreaking gadget that amplified sound in new ways.
Their achievement led to the company name and secured Magnavox’s place in history.
Soon after, Magnavox expanded its products. They started making radios, phonographs, and television sets. This growing lineup established the brand as familiar in homes across America.
In the 1960s, Magnavox also got into more advanced technology development. They worked with plasma displays for military and computing applications. This innovative work propelled the company even higher.
Magnavox Odyssey
In 1972, the American company released a pivotal new product named the Odyssey. It was the first home video game system, and its launch marked a critical stage for the company and the gaming industry.
It blazed a trail that many future gaming systems would follow.
Releasing this console put Magnavox at the forefront of an emerging entertainment revolution. However, around this time, competition in consumer electronics started growing fast.
While the Odyssey succeeded, Magnavox now faced rising rivals in the market.
Ownership changes and challenges
In 1974, a shift began as North American Philips acquired Magnavox. This Dutch electronics giant wanted to expand its market presence in the United States.
For a period, Magnavox operated under the new parent company.
Over the decades, integration started, combining the Magnavox and Philips brands. This diluted the separate American identity customers knew.
In the 1980s and 90s, Magnavox products were sold alongside Philips wares. While the brands’ reach grew, some consumers became confused as the lines between them blurred.
Magnavox remained focused on innovation, too, entering new areas such as LaserDisc players, home audio, and the Odyssey² console.
However, despite their successes, keeping pace with other electronics leaders in advancing technology, such as Sony and Samsung, proved difficult.
Over time, changes in ownership structure and brand strategy presented obstacles to sustaining Magnavox’s pioneering role in the industry.
The transition to licensing
In the 1990s, Magnavox’s ownership shifted as Philips began phasing out the use of the name in many locations in favor of its own brand.
This marked the end of Magnavox’s independent electronics development and production operation. From then on, the brand mostly utilized a licensing model.
In 2013, Funai Electric acquired the rights to manufacture and sell items branded Magnavox.
Working alongside Craig Electronics, Funai develops various home products bearing the Magnavox name, including DVD/Blu-ray players, headphones, batteries, radios, and audio systems.
The catalog has expanded to include household appliances like air conditioners, space heaters, and dehumidifiers. Products are available in international markets like the U.S., Mexico, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Why Magnavox’s influence weaned
Several developments affected Magnavox’s role in the television industry over time. Increased competition arose late in the 20th century, particularly from Asian brands like Sony, Samsung, and LG.
These companies pioneered new technologies in flat-screen LCD and plasma displays that proved difficult for Magnavox to match at the time.
Additionally, Philips’s decision to shift its branding focus and use primarily its own name resulted in less distinction for Magnavox products and diluted the identity of customers associated with Magnavox.
The licensing arrangement with Funai also positioned Magnavox more as an affordable brand rather than an innovation leader.
While televisions continued under the Magnavox brand name, they were no longer seen as representing the latest technologies as in earlier decades.
Does Magnavox still make televisions?
Yes. The current Magnavox models include higher-end options like the 65-inch 4K Ultra HD Roku TV and 55-inch 4K Ultra HD Roku TV. Basic televisions, such as a 32-inch 720p Roku TV, are also available.
These televisions aim to offer affordable prices while including dependable, smart functionality through Roku.
Though not focused on cutting-edge technology like premium brands, Magnavox televisions suit you if you prioritize affordability.
The bottom line
After over a century at the forefront of audio and visual technology innovation, Magnavox faced new competitive realities that diminished its prominent market position.
While no longer driving cutting-edge advances, the iconic brand survives today through strategic adjustments like licensing deals and affordable product lines.