The demand for interactive and personalized television services will push annual worldwide set-top box shipments over 200 million by 2013 as providers overhaul their current base with next-generation models, according to Parks Associates.
The research firm's latest report, “Set-Top Boxes: Outlook,” found the global digital transition and new distribution channels like DTT, IPTV, and over-the-top video services will intensify competition in the television service market. Carriers and manufacturers looking for a competitive advantage will replace their current installed base of set-top boxes with advanced models capable of supporting applications such as time- and place-shifting and Internet-based offerings.
"Consumers are attracted to the concept of connected CE, with one-third of U.S. broadband households very interested in a set-top box that connects to their PC and Internet service as well as their TV," said Parks Associates’ Research Analyst Jayant Dasari. "While less than 10 percent are willing to pay a monthly fee, demand is still on an upward trend, especially as the set-top connects to more and more services."
Growing demand is good news for service providers, especially cable and telco/IPTV operators, who are leveraging the set-top box platform to support their multiplay strategies. With the box connected to a variety of sources, it will expand the battle in the television services market to the entire digital home, affecting every service sector from energy management and security to voice and video.
