High-definition televisions sporting wireless connections have yet to hit most retail shelves, but vendors are tussling over standards for this latest consumer feature.
An outdoor, wireless, weatherproof TV
Two industry groups are lining up behind rival 5 GHz and 60 GHz technology proposals.
The 5 GHz standard is based on technology from Israeli-based Amimon, and is backed by Hitachi, Motorola, Sharp, Samsung and Sony, says ABI Research. The companies formed the WHDI Special Interest Group.
Mitsubishi, separately, has said it will use Amimon technology.
The 60 GHz approach is designed by Sunnyvale startup SiBEAM and has drawn the support of Intel, LG Electronics, Matsushita Electric, NEC and Toshiba. This WirelessHD group also claims Samsung and Sony, who are hedging their bets.
Broadcom also has joined the consortium, said ABI analyst Steve Wilson.
Amimon has shipped 100,000 of its wireless chipsets and is making “real progress promoting its solution,” says Wilson. SiBEAM, meanwhile, has a new round of fundraising and has won investments from Sony and Panasonic.
In Japan, Sharp and Hitachi are shipping high-end wireless televisions. In the U.S., Sony has its Bravia wireless adaptor available in some retail outlets, said Wilson.
Expect to see new models at January’s Consumer Electronics Show.
Jean-Baptiste Su
Mark Boslet
