Smart HDTVs coming from HP

Didn't some folks call the television an "idiot box?" HP thinks they're all wrong; in fact, they're developing the complete opposite. HP announced at the CEDIA Expo that they will have a line of "smart TVs" next year, starting with a 37-inch unit that will be WiFi capable. The approach is to move some of the media center-type functions into the TV in order to help consumers move their digital content into the family room.

There are limited details on the new sets from HP, but it's relatively safe bet that all of the televisions will be high-definition sets. Who wants to view cool digital content on an analog set? The real question is: will the new HP smart TVs complement or combat Microsoft's Media Center Edition of Windows?