Web TV becomes regular TV
July 23, 2008
Web video is no longer confined to PC users, according to Strategy Analytics Connected Home Devices service. A wave of recent announcements from major players such as Sony, Microsoft and Samsung confirms that Internet-enabled TVs, games consoles and peripherals, such as Blu-ray Disc players, will soon deliver web-based content to millions of TV viewers around the world.
According to Strategy Analytics estimates, by the end of 2008 186 million connected TV devices worldwide will be able to access some form of Internet content. "The web video explosion has so far been restricted largely to PC users, says David Mercer, VP and Principal Analyst." Now it is moving to the TV screen. While business model and content partner issues are still to be resolved, the floodgates are open – and web video is set to become a regular part of the TV viewing experience.
"Internet connectivity is becoming commonplace across a wide spectrum of consumer devices," says Peter King, Director, Connected Home Devices. "By 2014 more than two-thirds of all products sold will integrate Internet access."
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