HP executive Jim Sanduski of Hewlett-Packard believes that the only way forward for adding value to flat panel televisions is to make then network capable. Sanduski’s comments were made at the Society of Information Display’s (SID) Display Week event. He believes that the era of “HDTV 2.0” is upon us which is associating it to the new levels of interactivity brought about by Web 2.0.

Next generation flat panel televisions are going to be a network portal to local (home network) and Internet multimedia resources. Video from IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) will be able to be displayed. Future flat panel displays from HP will also feature their MediaSmart software which will allow browsing, selection and purchase of movies and other video content from online suppliers.

Sony have also seen the future of network capable flat panel televisions with their recently reviewed Sony Bravia Internet Video Link Module. The module enables access to Internet video programming including HD content without a PC. The BRAVIA Internet Link module is supported by the XBR, V and S series.

The concept of network enabled HD flat panel televisions will allow manufacturers to build a value component onto their products in a very competitive market.