DEG to distribute HDTV Guide

Group study finds consumers confused by high-def

By Jennifer Netherby -- Video Business, 9/15/2006

SEPT. 15 | The Digital Entertainment Group will distribute a format neutral consumer HDTV Guide as part of the group’s effort to serve as a clearinghouse on high-definition and, ultimately, promote high-def home entertainment.

DEG members include all the major studios as well as consumer electronics companies Toshiba and Sony, which are locked in a high-def format war.

The consumer guide will touch on everything from what HDTV is to the differences in HDTVs and how to connect HDTVs.

“As the industry transitions to high-definition technologies, consumers are adopting high-definition TVs and, at the same time, embracing high-definition content,” said Bob Chapek, DEG president and president of Buena Vista Worldwide Home Entertainment. “In short, this is a guide for how-to on HDTV.”

A new study of 1,100 high-def households conducted by the DEG and SmithGeiger LLC showed consumers are confused by HDTV, with nearly one-third not sure how to even plug in their HDTV sets. Only 11% believe they are using an HDMI connection for their sets. An HDMI connection is needed to get the best digital picture and ensures the signal will always be in high-def.

Despite the confusion, nearly all, 97%, said they were satisfied with their new set.

More than half, 59%, said they watched more TV since buying a new set.