More than 50 percent of U.S. households now own a digital television (DTV), according to new research released Friday by the Consumer Electronics Association. As the nation transitions to all digital television by February 17, 2009, consumers are adding DTV to their homes at a record pace.
"I am proud to announce our nation has hit this digital milestone. With 50 percent of U.S. homes able to experience the reality of digital television, we have crossed a critical threshold," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA. "2008 will continue to demonstrate the growth and success of DTV, with nearly 32 million units forecasted to ship. Consumers are particularly keen to add HDTV to their homes, with high definition expected to account for 79 percent of total DTV shipments in the U.S in 2008."
According to new CEA sales projections, manufacturers will post 11 percent revenue growth, to over $25 billion, from sales of digital televisions in 2007. CEA also forecasts 13 percent revenue and 17 percent unit sales growth for digital television in 2008.
Some important things to remember about Digital TV for consumers:
*Analog TVs for any "over the air" broadcast must have a digital converter box by 2/17/07 (Those who receive their tv via cable or satellite will not be affected).
*Digital TVs are NOT necessarily High Definition TVs
*All High Definition TVs receive digital signals.
Some information courtesy: Consumer Electronics Association
