NPD Forecasts Boom in Connected TV Devices

PORT WASHINGTON: There will be some 204 million connected TV devices in use in the U.S. in 2017, twice the number of Internet households, according to market research from NPD.

The 204 million includes video game consoles, streaming media players, Blu-ray Disc players and Internet-connected TV sets, NPD says in its Connected Home Forecast. Streaming video devices and connected TVs are leading the market, NPD says.

“The evolution of hardware and digital content distribution is constantly changing the TV viewing experience,” said John Buffone, executive director of NPD Connected Intelligence. “Over the coming years, the consumer’s preferred device for apps on TV will be shaped by the next generation of video game consoles, Smart TVs, and a new wave of streaming media players.”

He added: “Due to the rapid growth of connected TV devices, now is the time to establish consumer loyalty. Millions of viewers are trying new devices and apps, deciding which, if any, will become an indispensable part of their TV time.”