Smart TVs gains acceptance in Germany

German consumer electronics association Gfu expected some 26.5 million Smart devices to be sold in the country by the end of 2012.

According to the Gfu, some 15 million smartphones, 1.4 million tablets, seven million notebook PCs and 3.1 million smart TVs were sold up to the end of last year.

According to the organisation, over a third of all flat screen TVs sold in Germany were now equipped with internet connectivity, bringing the total to over four million, with 48% of 42-inch models, 75% of 46-inch screens and 75% of 50-inch TVs now being internet-connectable. For 50-inch models the proportion rises to 90%, according to the Gfu.

Some 30% of Smart TV users use their devices to watch free, short video clips, while 18% watch moves and 15% use the on-demand libraries offered by TV broadcasters. Some 15% use Smart TVs to look for news and information, while a further 15% listen to music from internet radio stations and online services.