Web-connected TVs tempting households

The number of Americans planning to purchase a smart TV has close to doubled in less than a year, said market researcher Parks Associates.

More than 10 per cent of US households with a broadband internet connection intend to buy a smart TV during the second half of 2011, an increase of 4 per cent from the first half of the year.

Taiwanese IT industry English-language newspaper DigiTimes reports that worldwide smart TV shipments will double in 2012 to reach 52.85 million units and 20 per cent of the market. Those who are planning on the purchase anticipate paying an average of $1000 for a flat-panel TV with built-in internet access.

If you are looking to buy a smart TV you should make sure it has all the features you want — some features you might want to look for are video streaming, the ability to download and use apps, on-demand rentals, built-in social networking, a full featured web browser, photo and video viewing capabilities, and internet radio — as the features on smart TVs differ from brand to brand and model to model.

PC World has put together a list of its five favourite smart TV platforms for 2011.
TVs are not the only connected devices consumers are looking to buy. One out of four broadband households has plans to purchase some kind of internet-connectable consumer electronic device in 2011.

Tablets are on the shopping list for 19 per cent of broadband households. Apple’s iPad is the device of choice for 40 per cent of people who plan on purchasing a tablet in 2011.