Times Square ball to switch to LED

Beginning in December 2006, Philips will light the Times Square New Year’s Ball with solid-state or LEDs.

For the New Year Eve 2006/07 celebration, lighting giant Philips Electronics will outfit the ball with an interior of more efficient light-emitting diodes (LEDs). By 2007/08, the entire sphere will be redesigned and completely illuminated by LEDs, making it an even brighter and sparklier beacon for the throngs in Times Square and the millions of TV viewers around the globe.

"We think it is fitting to bring the best and brightest technology to the New Year's ball," said Govi Rao, vice president and general manager of solid-state lighting at Philips North America. [MSNBC]