Amazon unveils new range of Smart TVs
David Farnor | On 05, Jan 2017
Amazon is entering the Smart TV market with a new range of Fire TV-branded models.
Amazon’a Fire TV, which first launched in 2015, has proven a huge hit for the online giant, powering sticks and set top boxes that have proven major rivals for streaming devices Roku and Google Chromecast. While the streaming media device race continues, though, a growing number of people are beginning to buy Smart TVs that have apps and web connectivity built in. With Roku already making headway in the US, with a range of TVs that have its streaming infrastructure baked in, Amazon is following suit.
Seiki, Westinghouse Electronics and Element Electronics are teaming with Amazon to produce a new line of 4K Ultra HD TVs. The TVs will feature the Amazon Fire TV range of over 7,000 apps, including support for a voice remote with Amazon Alexa. An on-screen programming guide will make finding what to watch easy, and with the included voice remote with Alexa, customers can use their voice to launch apps, search content, play music, control smart home devices and more.
Seiki and Westinghouse unveiled the TVs this week at CES 2017 in Las Vegas.
“Smart TVs can be cumbersome and difficult to use,” said Sung Choi, vice president of marketing, Tongfang Global. “Our new line of 4K Ultra HD Smart TVs – Amazon Fire TV Edition represent an elevated customer experience powered by the highest performance processors in the industry, a unique voice-controlled remote control, and Amazon’s cinematic viewing experience. With Amazon Fire TV built in and a voice remote with Alexa, access to movies, videos, music, gaming, and more is simple, easy, and intuitive.”
“Teaming up with brands including Seiki, Westinghouse and Element on a new range of smart TVs allows Amazon to deliver an experience that’s familiar and easy to use,” added Marc Whitten, vice president, Amazon Fire TV. “Fire TV Edition offers access to a great selection of streaming and over-the-air TV and movies, Alexa for easy voice search and content control, and the many other features and experiences customers have come to expect from the best-selling line of Amazon Fire TV products.”
Sizes will range from 43″ to 65″, with no exact details on pricing or release dates, either here or in the US, released yet.