Internet TV - or Internet
enabled TV - is creating a lot of buzz. This is of little surprise when
considering TV's long-standing popularity as a home entertainment device and
the fact the Internet is becoming increasingly important within every area of
people's lives. Marrying the two into one multi-function set seems to be the
logical evolution. Before purchasing an Internet TV, there are, however, a few
things you should consider carefully.
First of all, Internet
TVs are, at least for the moment, in no way meant to or capable of replacing
computers. They are usually not capable of surfing the Web, but are designed to
allow users to access some of the Internet's most popular sites and features
via their TV. In most cases, features include streaming YouTube videos;
watching Netflix movies and maybe update your Facebook or Twitter status. Some
may also allow users to view or browse image libraries. In short, most Internet
TVs Web functions are restricted to entertainment and news features.
Having said all this, by
tomorrow, there will probably be a set or two that can also send e-mails, have
you shopping or browsing and so on. There seems little doubt that technology
seems to be moving quicker and quicker by the day. Technological advances are
definitely hard to keep up with at times.
Varying companies
manufacture Internet TVs, each and every one of which has its very own set of
features and capabilities. Some stream YouTube clips, others allow browsing of
Picasa images and others still stream either Amazon on Demand or Netflix
movies. Most of them allow streaming of music either directly from radio
stations or in the shape of MP3 collections. Combinations of features will vary
significantly between different makes. This, of course, means you will have to
work out exactly what features you want before making a purchase.
You may also want to
consider achieving Internet capability for you regular TV via add-ons, like
BluRay players, for instance, rather than getting a whole TV set. There are
already plenty of these players that allow YouTube videos, HD movies and music
to be streamed straight off the Web available at fairly reasonable prices. Much
less bulky than a new TV, add-ons usually also end up being more affordable.
Finally, but perhaps most
importantly, you will need to consider how your TV will connect to the Internet. Some sets require wiring in through Ethernet cables, some can connect
wireless via (separately purchased) receivers and others still can be connected
using power-line adaptors. In either case, additional expenses will have to be
dealt with in order to make optimal use of your new TV.
All in all, you will have
to consider the features you need in order to be able to view the things you
wish, the way in which your brand-new Internet TV will actually connect to the
Web and how much you are prepared to pay for the pleasure of watching things
you could also watch directly on your computer, but from the comfort of your
favorite armchair in your front room.
