|
|
|
|
February 4, 2011 Smart TV "Smart TV" refers to television sets that connect to the Internet to access content for entertainment, information and more. "Smart" refers to the television’s ability to access the Internet without turning on your computer or even having a computer. You do, however, need a wireless or ethernet connection to the Internet via cable or DSL, and these connections often need a computer to initially configure. LG Electronics (LG) (www.lg.com) unveiled its new range of Internet connected Smart TVs at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). These new TVs will be available soon, in 47- to 54-inch models. In addition to accessing TV shows from cable/satellite/antenna sources, you’ll be able to use a simple on-screen Home Dashboard to access online content from sources such as Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube, LG Apps and many others. The smart TV sets can also stream content from home media servers or a PC.
The "Smart Share" function of LG’s Smart TV allows users to wirelessly stream content such as videos, photos or music from compatible devices connected to the home network for viewing on their television screen. With Smart Share, users can also view content from their computer and access simultaneous internet meta data (such as actor profiles and plot synopses) about whatever movie they’re watching. The LG SmartTV also includes a web browser, so users no longer need to turn on their computer to access the Internet. The web browser will allow users to access and view news, reviews and a host of other content directly on the television screen. LG’s also introduced the "Magic Motion" remote control, used to position an on-screen pointer for point-and-click ease (similar to a Wii controller). As a bow to simplicity, the remote control has only 6 buttons (our TV remote has 54 buttons!). Sony previously introduced their version of Internet connected Smart TV in partnership with Google. Using Sony’s Smart TV and the search expertise of Google, you can search for content on the Internet and on any device connected to your home network. Similar Smart TV capabilities will shortly appear in the new generation of smart cell phones powered by Android and being introduced by Motorola, LG and Sony.
For those of us who have an older and not-so-smart TV, LG has introduced a SmartTV Upgrader that converts your TV set into a wireless Internet connected SmartTV providing all the benefits available on LG’s SmartTVs, including ease-of-use access to premium content, a web browser and the ability to stream content from any device connected to your home network. This 4.5 by 4.5 inch box, available in early 2011, connects to an HDMI input on your TV and includes a USB port for adding a mouse or external storage. "Smart TV" and many other "Smart" technology products are in production. Stay tuned. |
