Networking a key factor in latest TVs

In 2011, more than 27% of TVs shipped worldwide will be able to connect to a network, a figure that is expected to rise 54% to 155 million by 2015, according to the Q3’11 DisplaySearch Quarterly TV Design and Features Report.

In addition, 16% of TVs shipping in Latin America in 2011 will be network-capable.

The latest generation of TV semiconductors, combined with digital broadcasting, is providing a fertile platform for rapid innovation in TV, in both mature and emerging markets.

At the same time, the TV semiconductor business is struggling with the problems of hyper-competition. Consolidation is still playing out, including the rise of MStar Semi and Mediatek. TV manufacturers are restructuring their business models following losses in the first half of 2011.

In addition, new lower-cost LCD panel technology using LED backlights, shifts to outsourcing and new set designs are being investigated.

Integration and innovation in semiconductors is powering new capabilities, with networking emerging as an important new function. Consumer research suggests that the connection rate of TVs doubles when they have a wireless networking capability.

TV manufacturers are responding and analysis of product ranges shown at IFA Berlin reveals how far wireless is filling product ranges.

At the same time, TV IC innovation is not just extra featuring. It is enabling a reshaping of the TV value chain. With TV manufacturers restructuring their value chains, the latest TV ICs enable them to assemble sets from ‘open cell’ LCDs instead of buying complete LCD modules.

One of the key enabling technologies is integration of the LCD timing controller into the main TV chip.