Call Kurtis: New Pricing Policy Change Could Cause HDTV Prices To Jump

Now may be the time to buy a TV. We call on Kurtis Ming with why the prices could soon being going up.

A couple of TV manufacturers are changing the rules. And it could force some stores and websites to raise their prices.

Shopping for a new TV, Steve Kent may want to rush to buy his now.

"I'm looking for a new one that's good for sports," says Steve.

The 2012 models start rolling in in April and they could be much more pricey than 2011 TVs.

Sony and Samsung confirm a new rule. They will now dictate the lowest price any retailer can sell certain 2012 mid- and high-end TVs.

"The main effect is going to be higher prices," says David Katzmaier, CNET editor.

Katzmaier says some Internet sites have lowered prices so much, stores can't compete.

"I guess the idea is to try and force universal pricing across a bunch of retailers, namely brick-and-mortar stores like Best Buy and online stores like Amazon," says Katzmaier.

And it could help electronic stores such as Filco Discount SuperStore in Sacramento.

"It's a way for the manufacturers to kind of level the playing field and bring some profitability back into the products," says Tim Clark, Filco sales manager.

CNET suspects some 2012 high-end TVs could be as much $500 more than last year's model at some retailers.

"Doesn't sound good for the consumer," says Trinidad Magdaleno, a Filco customer.

But right now, we only know of Samsung and Sony on board.

If other TV manufacturers don't follow suit, experts say the two TV makers may be forced to change their prices again.

Steve Kent didn't know of the change and now has an incentive to buy now.

"I didn't know that, I guess it does give me more," says Steve.

Companies such as Apple and Bose have been using this pricing policy for years. Sony says the change isn't meant to raise prices but increase competition. Samsung didn't want to comment at this time.