Global consumer electronics sales were lower than expected during the third quarter of 2012, with digital TV products as well as home entertainment and sound systems getting hit the hardest, according to Digitimes Research.

Consumer electronics makers such as LG Electronics reported losses during the period due to a lack of growth in the three segments, as well as to an overall lack of growth in the home entertainment segment. Additionally, Japan-based Sharp and Panasonic incurred US$125 million in losses during the third quarter largely due to losses for TV and panel investments.

Samsung Electronics, however, reported a large increase in revenues during the third quarter due to its smartphone sales and growing demand in its communications business.

Digitimes Research also said a lack of global economic growth, depreciation of the Euro, as well as disputes between China and Japan over the Diaoyutai Islands led to increased losses for consumer electronics makers during the third quarter.