TV makers seek new channels as viewers tune out

It is inevitable that many consumers will choose mobile terminals rather than sitting in their living rooms and watching TV, according to Peng Xiandong, general manager of consumer electronics at China Market Monitor Co Ltd, which specializes in market research for home appliances.

"Providing a bridge to channel what is on mobile phones or iPads back to the TV screen is the way of the future," said Peng.

According to Can Huang, a senior analyst at Mintel Group, Chinese consumers have a fondness for large screens, so more people tend to view video content on a desktop, laptop or tablet than on a smartphone. However, no matter what screen people choose, the preference for video streaming persists, according to his research.

According to data provided by AVC-Brand, a consultancy that specializes in research on home appliances, the smart TV penetration rate in China is expected to soar from 27 percent in 2012 to 89 percent by 2015.

Smart TVs have an open-source platform, video on demand and other user interactive features such as online gaming and Web browsing.

Internet companies, such as Beijing Leshi Internet Information & Technology Corp and Tencent Holdings Ltd, dominate the market.