A new DisplaySearch report predicts more than 45 million Web-connected high-definition TVs will be shipped this year, with the new technology becoming increasingly popular.
The findings were reported in DisplaySearch's 'Quarterly TV Design and Features Report,' which is a 200-page study of HDTVs and other consumer gadgets used in the living room.
The Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) capability is becoming even more popular, as the 45M prediction is about 20 percent of all HDTV shipments -- a number higher than previously predicted at the start of the year.
"We have seen DLNA as a solution in search of a problem for a long while, but with the surge in media streaming, the technology has found its place -- creating business opportunities for TV set makers, broadcasters and retailers," said Paul Gray, DisplaySearch Director of TV electronics research, in a statement. "The Internet video battleground will take place in the living room, with all facets of the TV supply chain trying to stake claims."
Consumers in North America, Japan, Europe, China, India have seen 55 percent of all 2010 HDTVs include Web connectivity. Manufacturers are rolling out widgets, downloads, and streaming content through even more HDTV models, which should help increase market exposure.
DisplaySearch also believes connected consumer products will top 119 million units in 2014, a predicted 42 percent of all total TVs shipped.
I expect DLNA to become increasingly popular now that more Web-connected products are available in Best Buy, Fry's, and other stores. Casual consumers are becoming more informed about the TVs and some of the benefits of DLNA.
An issue that must be dealt with, according to DisplaySearch and others, will be bandwidth caps that dictate the amount of bandwidth ISP subscribers can use. Some ISPs have already done it, but others are expected to also test bandwidth caps -- especially if users begin to stream HD movies, video games, and other products online.
