The widgets would be designed to access the Internet and locate content that is complementary to the programming, whether it is a discussion on the content or advertisements for products that are featured in the show, which can then be ordered by the viewing using the television. This year, web-connected TV shipments will total less than half a million.
Fast forward to 2013, and the number ruses to six billion, according to estimates from E&Y's study, which cites Parks Associates as a source. Sony, Samsung and LG have select television models that would be capable of running widgets already, and Intel showed off the CE4100 media processor built for set-top boxes for multimedia purposes. Intel is working with CBS and CinemaNow to develop and run widgets for TVs.
MySpace.com has also developed a widget that blends TV with its social networking services which allows viewers to send messages or browse through photos on the site from their TV.
Written by: James Delahunty @ 2 Oct 2009 1:30
