New year. New Tech. New TV?
2023 promises to be full of changes in the world in the world of TV viewing. But what can we really expect to see in the coming in the 12 months?
· Live TV viewing will continue to drop.
Already 85 % of people have at least one streaming service, with over half saying they only watch TV through on demand options like iplayer , Netflix and Prime. This will increase pressure on reform of the license fee and push more broadcasters to use only IPTV (TV through internet) rather than aerial broadcast.
· Further competition between streaming platforms
After Britbox was merged in to ‘ITVX’ it looks likely that other platforms may begin to merge or provide joint offerings to keep customers. We already see this within the Sky and Virgin platforms where Netflix subscriptions are included within the package. We may even see some big names vanish.
· Expect OLED and QLED to become more cost effective as ‘mid-size’ sets.
Until recently the 40/43” market has been solely the domain of LED models. However mid-market OLED and QLED models look likely to penetrate that barrier going forward. However given the mass production requirements of TVs today it looks likely ‘big screen’ and ‘basic brand’ sets will likely remain LED for the foreseeable future yet.
· Voice control and ‘smart home‘ will take an increasing role in viewing habits.
Cross platform viewing, from TV to phone to tablet, will make a greater appearance in 2023. Mixed with the Google, Alexa and Apple home systems this interlinking of technology looks likely to pick up steam going forward.
Verdict; Change…but gradual.
Given the cost of living crisis, limitations to logistics with the situation in Ukraine and a wider lack of TV panels, any change we’re likely to see will be gradual. The changes starting now will speed up year on year and before long we’re likely see another analogue/digital type shift in viewing technology and habits.
The challenge for us? To bring customers forward with us as these changes appear. A brilliant opportunity for local firms and businesses to invest time in customer service. Making sure that the benefits of ’Smart TV’, along with smart home more generally, improve the quality of everyone’s viewing regardless of age and ability.
Here’s to a bright 2023 for all small business!