Consumers embrace DLNA for lounge room networking

The Digital Living Network Alliance is stepping up its marketing push as analysts predict more than 300 million DLNA-certified consumer electronics devices will ship in 2012.

More than 5,500 devices have received DLNA certification, including more than 400 TV models in the past three months, according to ABI Research. The DLNA protocol offers easy content sharing between home entertainment devices, with nearly 200 million DLNA certified devices shipped in 2008 including televisions, cameras, printers, PCs, set-top boxes, cell phones and games consoles.

“Televisions are the focal point of entertainment for many households, making it essential that they interoperate with other devices that make up the digital home,” said Scott Smyers, chairman of the DLNA board of directors and Sony senior vice president. “The rapid growth in DLNA Certified televisions represents a shift to a more connected and interactive home experience. With 669 television models DLNA certified to date, consumers have the ability to truly enjoy their television in new ways.”

Windows 7 is expected to play a key role in DLNA’s takeup, with Windows Media Player to feature a ‘Play to’ command – making it simple for consumers to play files to DLNA-certified devices throughout the home.