Samsung Electronics America Inc. announced that it has launched Samsung Apps, the first HDTV-based application store where users can download applications from select 2010 Samsung HDTVs, Blu-ray Disc (BD) players and home theater systems via the upgraded Internet@TV – Content Service.
According to the statement, Samsung Apps provides consumers with an expanded, easy to navigate selection of content and applications from leading services like The Associated Press, Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, USA TODAY, and VUDU. More than 20 apps will be available by the end of March, with hundreds expected by the end of the year. The new application platform allows content owners and developers to develop apps that work across multiple devices for the ease and convenience of consumers.
Samsung’s established leadership in the “connected TV” space began in 2008 with RSS feeds via its InfoLink feature, then extended to launching Internet@TV in 2009 and being the first to launch Blockbuster’s streaming movie rental and purchase service on select HDTVs and Blu-ray players. The introduction of Samsung Apps delivers a faster and more flexible platform that provides consumers with an expanded, easy-to-navigate selection of content and applications from leading content providers and services. Applications can be downloaded and viewed all while watching TV. Premium apps will be available for purchase via the platform’s transactional interface in the second half of 2010.
“We are making a significant step forward in delivering a more personalized, navigable and easy to use connected TV experience,” said John Revie, senior vice president of home entertainment for Samsung Electronics America. “Samsung Apps will be offered in numerous TV models as well as across our Blu-ray Players and Home Theater Systems, so consumers can conveniently access a variety of content through many forms that fit their needs.”
Apps available for download today meet a variety of consumer interests and can be viewed while watching TV. They span information, video, lifestyle, games, and sports. For example, you can track breaking news while watching your favorite TV show from the comfort of your couch. For those who love to rent movies, video apps include a multitude of movies available for streaming in HD quality. Additionally, several apps in 2010 will allow interactivity between HDTVs and select Samsung WiFi-enabled phones. Consumers, for example, will be able to play Texas hold ’em poker with friends, where the TV screen shows the table and the phone serves as the controller, while showing cards in your hand like a real poker game.
Content and application developers will have new opportunities to build applications, content and services through the Samsung Apps Software Developers Kit (SDK). The forthcoming developers program will be an open platform that encourages anyone from premium content owners to individual developers, to create their own applications. Samsung expects many additional partners to become Samsung App developers by the end of 2010.
For more information visit: www.samsung.com