Sony Chooses Opera for Connected TVs and Blu-ray Players

Posted 01/20/2011 at 8:25am | by Pulkit Chandna

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Those of you who have ever compared browser market share stats from various authoritative sources will know that their numbers seldom agree. But there is little to disagree on when it comes to Opera’s proven numerical mediocrity compared to other major desktop browsers. In much the same way, there is no gainsaying its numerical superiority in the mobile market.  Now, the browser has another opportunity of redeeming itself in a non-desktop segment, with the announcement that Sony will soon begin shipping connected LCD TVs and Blu-ray players with Opera built into them.

According to the browser vendor, the Opera Devices Software Developer Kit (SDK), which helps ensure standards compliance across various platforms, will form the “backbone of Opera for connected TVs and Blu-ray Disc players.” It will deliver full web browsing, web apps and widgets while ensuring compliance with emerging web standards such as HTML5, HbbTV and OIPF.

"The Web as we know it is evolving, and we are committed to making it more accessible across diverse devices," said Christen Krogh, Chief Development Officer, Opera Software. "Our ability to address key hybrid broadcast-broadband initiatives in numerous markets makes us a natural fit with Sony. By delivering both a global viewpoint and the necessary technology, we are able to stay on the cutting edge of the industry."

But Opera isn’t entirely a newcomer to the world of TVs. Wii owners have already sampled the browser on their TV screens through the Opera-powered Internet Channel.