Research analyses networked home devices

According to the latest Strategy Analytics' 'Connected Home Devices' research, nearly two-thirds of available networked home devices are now integrated with, or upgradeable to WiFi connectivity.

According to the latest Strategy Analytics' 'Connected Home Devices' research, nearly two-thirds of available networked home devices are now integrated with, or upgradeable to WiFi connectivity.

The survey examined nearly 200 networked home devices from 74 manufacturers in the USA, Europe and Japan, including leading consumer electronics brands such as Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Philips, Sharp, Thomson and Toshiba; PC manufacturers like HP, Fujitsu-Siemens and Gateway; home networking specialists such as Linksys, D-Link, Buffalo and Netgear; hi-fi specialists like Onkyo, Yamaha and Kenwood; and new market entrants such as Kiss, Pinnacle, Roku, Slim Devices and Sonos.

Networked home devices allow consumers to get access to their digital music, video and photos in different parts of the home.

Popular applications include transferring digital photos from the PC to the TV, or listening to MP3s on a stereo system.

"WiFi technology is a natural complement to content sharing in the digital home", said Peter King, Director for the Connected Home Devices Service.

"Our survey suggests that 802.11 'b' and 'g' are the dominant standards so far".

"802.11a has so far gained little traction, and we expect 802.11n to drive the next adoption wave beginning in late 2006".

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