January 6, 2009
LG Electronics has introduced what it says is the first broadband-enabled HDTVs. In a partnership with Netflix, the entertainment conmpany's streaming software is embedded directly in the TV, requiring no external device.
The two companies say the sets will be available in LCD and plasma and will display the library of movies, TV episodes and high-definition content that Netflix members can watch instantly directly on the TV with Ethernet connectivity.
Available this spring, the new HDTVs will be an addition to the LG BD300 Network Blu-ray Disc Player, which can stream movies instantly from Netflix. LG Electronics and Netflix are demonstrating the new broadband HDTVs this week at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
"Embedding the Netflix streaming software in the television is a natural progression of our partnership with Netflix and our innovative product line," said LG Electronics USA President Teddy Hwang. "This is an LG industry-first, which provides another flexible option for consumers seeking to access exciting content directly through their HDTV."
"LG Electronics was first to embrace Netflix as a streaming partner a year ago, and was first in 2008 to introduce a Blu-ray disc player that streams movies from Netflix," said Netflix CEO Reed Hastings. "So it's fitting that LG is the first to introduce Netflix instant streaming directly to the TV with these next-generation HDTVs."
Netflix began offering its instant streaming functionality on PCs in January 2007 and made the leap to the TV last year via Netflix ready devices such as the LG BD300 Blu-ray disc player. With today's announcement, Netflix will be streaming, for the first time, directly to the TV with no external device required.
Instantly streaming content from Netflix to the LG HDTVs will rely on a broadband connection and Queue-based user interface. Netflix members will use the Netflix Web site to add movies and TV episodes to their individual instant Queues. Those choices will automatically be displayed on members' TVs and available to watch instantly through the HDTV. Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds.
With the accompanying remote control, Netflix members will be able to browse and make selections right on the TV screen and also have the ability to read synopses and rate movies. In addition, they will have the option of fast-forwarding and rewinding the video stream.
