Panasonic and Pioneer began collaborating before Pioneer exited the plasma market last year due to heavy losses.

This has started the rumors that Panasonic would acquire Pioneer’s KURO plasma technology & related patents. According to Pioneer’s Annual Report, Panasonic has officially done so. Panasonic have worked with the technology since May this year.

Pioneer states:

"The Company resolved to transfer its patents for plasma display panels and modules to Panasonic Corporation at the Board of Directors’ meeting held on April 28, 2009. The two companies had executed the agreement on May 15, 2009. This constitutes part of the business restructuring effort in accordance with plans for a full withdrawal from the display business."

The Pioneer Kuro plasma-TVs has set the standard for picture quality (good black & color levels) & despite the fact that they are no longer available many still regard the Pioneer KURO as the best TV on the market.

You can read the Pioneer Annual Report 2009 here.