By Patrick Avenell
SYDNEY, NSW: Sony Australia today announced the incorporation of the ABC online platform iView onto its IPTV-enabled products. This includes its latest release Bravia TVs and a new Blu-ray player specifically released to provide additional content to older TV users.
In addition to iView, which has thus far proven very popular, Sony is also adding On Networks, Daily Motion, Howcast and Concierge to its content offering. This brings the total number of online channels available to Sony up to 20.
For consumers that don’t want to purchase a new TV but still want to access new content, Sony has announced the release of the BDP-S370. This is a combination Blu-ray/DVD player with full access to Sony’s IPTV. It also has a USB in port for watching individually sourced content.
Whether by luck or design, this announcement came at the same time that Sony’s rival Samsung was announcing its 2010 range of 3D TVs. Not wanting to miss any opportunity to steal coverage from its competitor, Sony also announced the opening of its first 3D demonstration site, at the Sony Centre at World’s Square. Sony plans to open 14 3D sites by the end of May 2010.
“2010 marks the beginning of 3D technology in Australian homes,” said Sony Australia managing director, Carl Rose. “3D has already generated a lot of interest and excitement in Australia, and indeed around the world. Being able to demonstrate a new technology like 3D allows us to gain valuable insight into consumer reaction and the possibilities for this technology in Australia.”