Network-enabled CE devices have the ability to connect directly to the internet or to a home network, while web-enabled, “smart” devices have to deliver IP-based video content for viewing either on the device itself or on a separate screen. Both types of devices are expected to grow exponentially over the next five years. By 2015, In-Stat predicts there will be 1 billion web-enabled, stationary CE devices in operation worldwide.

“‘Smart TVs’ and Blu-ray players (that support online apps) will constitute over 50% of all web-enabled CE device shipments worldwide in 2015,” says principle analyst Keith Nissen.

“North America and Europe will remain the primary regional markets for web-enabled, stationary CE devices. Over the next five years, both the North American and European markets will exhibit a 23% CAGR and will account for nearly 70% of the global market.”

Recent research findings include:

• The popularity of over-the-top (OTT) video is creating interest in enhancing the IP video capabilities of cable, satellite, and IPTV set top boxes (STBs). This is creating a growing market for hybrid STBs.

• The vast majority of Blu-ray disc players and recorders shipped will be both network-enabled and web-enabled devices.

• The Asia/Pacific region will favor mobile CE devices over stationary devices but will still show a 20% CAGR in web-enabled stationary devices over the forecast period.

• There are many different TV application platforms. Yahoo! Widgets is the major TV app platform in the industry, though Sony, Samsung, and others have developed their own proprietary platforms. Look for Google TV’s App Store and the Apple TV Apps store to shake things up.

New In-Stat research The Global Market for Web-Enabled “Smart” CE Devices (#IN1004651RC) provides an update on the worldwide deployment of network-enabled and web-enabled stationary CE devices and reviews the economics behind the video entertainment industry today. Included are five-year shipment forecasts, by device, segmented by wired and wireless network connectivity as well as the ability to run online applications/widgets.

Devices included are:

• Digital TVs
• DVD and Blu-ray players/recorders
• OTT set top boxes
• Video gaming consoles
• DVRs/PVRs
• Network storage devices
• Pay-TV set top boxes.