Intel at CES: Our Research Shows Viewers Want Internet TVs

Intel isn’t just inside our computers these days. They’re in our TVs too. These smart chips power widgets available on Internet-connect HDTVs, and are also in a number of set-top boxes and Blu-ray players that stream Internet content to our TV screens. In fact, Intel’s Digital Home Group has a global team of social scientists who conduct in-depth research in the homes of people around the world to learn how consumers across cultures interact with all types of technology, including their TVs.

Cory Booth, a Human Factors Engineer in Intel’s User Experience Group, explains (above) why Intel cares about our digital entertainment experience and shows off some cool futuristic TV channel changing technology to help make our viewing more engaging.

People want the power of the Internet on their TV – but not necessarily the Internet experience they have now. While consumers are open to the concept of new Internet services and more interactive control, they also tell Intel research teams that they want their TV experience to be uncomplicated and reliable – with no blue screens, driver software or other complications. One of the things consumers like most about TV is that they can just push a button and it works. They also like TV’s flexibility, the way it blends into their lives, and the fact that the TV experience can be shared with others.

Check out more interesting findings about TV viewers they studied in The Changing TV Experience. It’s a must-read for those of you who enjoy following trends in entertainment technology.

[Disclosure: Intel is a sponsor of the January edition of the Hollywood Tubefilter Web Television Meetup.]