[Philip Lelyveld comment: this story from New Zealand briefly describes the latest 3D / connected TV offerings from Samsung, Sony, Panasonic, and LG]

[Excerpt from Stuff.co.nz, click here for full story]

3D was the new big thing in televisions last year. This year it’s all about bringing the web to your flat-screen.

You’ve probably seen the flashy ads promoting internet-connected TVs but what are they and what can you do on them?

Internet TVs can connect to the internet via an ethernet cable or a wi-fi network. Some TVs will have built-in wi-fi functionality while others will require you to plug in a wi-fi dongle (USB connection). You will of course need an internet connection to your home to use the TV’s internet features. Dick Smith recommends a connection speed of at least 1.5 megabits per second.

The TVs can be controlled with a remote, wireless keyboard (usually sold separately) and an Android or iPhone – once you download. While internet TVs, with high-definition screens, are potentially browsing the web and video chatting, there is still very little programming for them in New Zealand.