Internet Connected TVs Still Not Very Well Connected

The good news for TV manufacturers is that televisions are still the primary device for viewing content in the home, so they can rest easy in that respect. However, the "less than great news" is that TV manufacturers are doing a poor job executing a strategy to extend the TV's functionality beyond simple viewing, The NPD Group stated in its latest NPD Connected Intelligence Application & Convergence report. Specifically, Internet connected HDTVs are not being fully utilized.

"The Internet connected HDTV screen has so far failed to break beyond the bounds of its TV-centric heritage, with little use for the big screen beyond the obligatory video services," The NPD Group said. "The decision is not for want of application choice, but rather seems to be focused on how consumers are used to interacting with their TV."


According to The NPD Group, most connected devices (HDTVs, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and so forth) offer an array of applications, including social networking apps like Facebook and Twitter, but they've failed to resonate with an audience. Consumers are finding better platforms for such activities, like tablets and smartphones.

One exception is streaming music. While consumers are reluctant to post to Facebook from their HDTVs, they're more than willing to stream from Pandora and other music apps.

Do you own an Internet connected TV or other living room device? If so, how do you use it?