TV Widgets: open / closed

VorpalBunny

Member
Nov 21, 2009
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0
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I'm in the market for a replacement TV.

I've only started looking at new TVs but a lot of them seem to advertise internet connectivity. Based on what I'm reading in places like Crutchfield, these set tops are basically closed boxes. Thus you get a "package" or group of widgets and in most cases there isn't a way to update the firmware without buying a new TV.

Are there any TVs that support open standards or "open widgets" (if there is such a thing)? Maybe the better question is are those widgets any good or useful considering one could hook up a device like a laptop or game console to the device?

Basically, what extra features do you look for in a new TV?

Although I've just started I'm convinced that a plasma screen wins out above LED or LCD. I like the idea of having that rich black motion blur-less picture.
 

phillyTIM

Golden Member
Jan 12, 2001
1,942
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81
I want an internet-connected TV too, but they are so high priced right now.
 

Anubis

No Lifer
Aug 31, 2001
78,712
427
126
tbqhwy.com
I want an internet-connected TV too, but they are so high priced right now.

my Panasonic is an internet connected TV and it wasn't what i would consider high priced as there are many out there that costs many thousands more.

mine came bundled with 3 or 4 widgets and they are pushing more out in june IIRC

However to answer the OPs question the internet connectivity was not something i looked for when i was looking, PQ, Color accuracy and black level were all i was really focusing on, as well as reports of issues and such,

price and size were also factors but they were more of guidlines
 
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