TV makers showcased AI upgrades and large screens at CES in Las Vegas as the smartphone threat grows. According to Ampere Analysis, daily TV viewing fell from 61% in 2017 to 48% last year, while smartphone viewing nearly doubled to 21%.
In China, young people are ignoring large TVs and preferring smartphones or tablets for entertainment. Even as TV ownership and prices decline or remain stable, manufacturers are making TVs bigger and smarter, to boost sales.
CES showcased Micro RGB technology for clearer colors on LED displays and the use of AI for personalized viewing experiences, clearer pictures, and better sound. Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, and Hisense led the way in showing off new models.
Behind the scenes, Amazon and Walmart are battling it out in TV advertising and e-commerce. Walmart bought Vizio to compete with Amazon, using TVs as ad delivery devices in the living room. profit margins on ads are higher than on hardware sales.
Today's TV is not just for viewing; it is also a tool for e-commerce, using AI and a large screen to attract consumers.
