Forbes predicts slow HDTV growth
Forbes is running a Variety.com article on how HDTV growth outside of the U.S. and Japan is so slow. That's not exactly a shocker as we've repeatedly reported on slow HDTV adoption in Europe and other areas. The surprising part is the article's reasons on why the growth is slow.
According to the article the slow adoption is due to "high prices, and the fact that only about one-third of high-definition households have the necessary set-top box (or integrated set) to enable high-definition programs to be viewed."
The slow adoption is more likely attributed to various high-def standards, legacy broadcast equipment and formats, and lack of consumer understanding. Yes, prices are high, but are quickly dropping, so that doesn't seem like a long-term inhibitor. Set-top boxes and integrated tuners aren't a requirement for adoption either. A good portion of viewers receive satellite or cable broadcasts.
Do we have any European readers than can confirm my thoughts, or am I off-base?
