The number of US consumers planning to purchase a smart TV (defined as an HDTV with built-in internet access capability) has nearly doubled in less than a year, according to research from Parks Associates. The research reports more than 10% of broadband households plan to purchase a smart TV in the second half of 2011, up from 6% in the first half. 

Younger consumers especially want the extra benefits on their new TVs of going to the web for social networking and on-demand video or subscription entertainment options.

Consumers show strong preferences for entertainment and social networking options on connected Consumer Electronics (CE) devices such as Blu-ray players, game consoles, and smart TVs. Preferred features include the ability to stream and download movies and TV shows as well as access to Facebook and online music.

The survey also shows 19% of broadband households intend to purchase a tablet in the second half of 2011. Among tablet intenders, men are more likely than women to purchase 3G tablets and buy 3G data plans for their new devices.

Apple is the preferred brand by far, capturing over 40% of planned tablet purchases for the rest of 2011, according to Parks Associates. (Parks Associates, September 2011)