Netflix leads the online streaming market, growth expected in 2011

The NPD Group has discovered that 57 percent of Web-connected HDTVs are used to access Netflix instant streaming, which is a significant lead against YouTube and other online video rivals. Netflix remains the most dominant video service, but will have to adjust to more rivals fighting over consumer attention in 2011.

Netflix currently controls 20% of primetime viewership as the company continues to show it can rattle the saber in a fickle online video market.

Consumers are looking for movies, TV episodes, and other content — not user-made videos and YouTube material — when they sit down and watch TV. YouTube believed a move into the living room would help attract new advertisers looking to cash in on the video site’s large viewership.

Google will need to look for new methods to generate interest for YouTube in the living room, with Redbox and other companies flocking to the market.

“Manufacturers are underselling the Internet features of connected TVs. Broadband features unlock worlds of on-demand content; manufacturers should provide the key by integrating Wi-Fi,” said Ross Rubin, NPD Group executive director, in a statement.

There is cautious optimism that 2011 will be a year of rebound in the tech and consumer industries, with the global economy recovering and rebounding.

Meanwhile, the Leichtman Research Group discovered at least 60% of all US households now have at least one HDTV, with at least 25% of homes owning more than one HDTV.  Andy Marken, Marken Communications President, believes connected TVs will total more than 100 million units across the world by the end of 2011.

Web-connected HDTVs will see more mainstream appeal from consumers in 2011, as manufacturers learn how to better promote their products. A recovering economy should lead to more consumer spending, especially as customers learn more about Internet apps and streaming services for their HDTV’s.