Few home network users currently have permanent connections between their Consumer electronics (CE) devices and their home networks. Those that do primarily connect their game console, according to the latest market study by In-Stat.
As more connected CE devices become available, In-Stat expects Blue-ray DVD players and recorders will lead network new digital media client growth.
"The primary reasons that more devices are not connected to home networks are -- consumer awareness/knowledge, availability of network-capable CE products on retail shelves, prices of network-capable CE products, competition with non-network-capable CE products (like docking stations), and lack of perceived need by some consumers," says Joyce Putscher, In-Stat analyst.
In-Stat's market study found the following:
- Almost 43 percent of the Windows PCs used in North American homes in June 2008 had Media Center functionality, up from 32 percent in 2007.
- The worldwide media server-capable device market is estimated at $50 billion in 2008.
- In-Stat's consumer survey reveals that 64 percent of U.S. respondents are somewhat, very or extremely interested in watching Internet-based streaming video on their household TV.
- A proliferating set of competitors are offering a range of Digital Media Adapter/Player/Receiver (DMA/DMP/DMR) devices, including Apple, Cisco, Denon, Hewlett-Packard, Roku, Samsung, and many others.
