Consumer technology industry trends in 2008

10 Jan '08

3 min read

According to consumer technology industry analysts from The NPD Group, a leading consumer and retail information provider, 2008 could be a year of transition for the industry.

The impending analog television shut-off, the drive toward connectivity, and the growing penetration of broadband Internet access in American homes will more actively shape the kinds of consumer technology products and services consumers can expect to see and buy in the coming year.

Stephen Baker and Ross Rubin, industry analysts at NPD, believe the consumer tech market's moves might not be driven by one specific product or set of products, but instead will be dictated by larger sea changes in the industry.

“As many of the fastest growing electronics categories mature in 2008 overall electronics sale growth is likely to plateau,” said Stephen Baker, vice president, information technology industry analysis, The NPD Group.

“Retailers and brands will increasingly look to beyond-the-box services and other offerings to drive continued growth.”

“We are entering the third generation of digital products in many categories, as more consumers have embraced the high-definition experience,” said Ross Rubin, director, consumer technology industry analysis, The NPD Group.

“The growth of broadband at home and the emergence of wireless broadband are reshaping how the industry thinks about content and capabilities.”

Following are eight of Baker's and Rubin's trends to watch for key products, services, and trends we can expect to see more of in 2008:

Analog TV shutoff Television broadcasters will end transmission of analog programming over the air in February 2009. While there will be a rush for low-cost subsidized converter boxes, manufacturers and retailers will also try to entice consumers to upgrade to digital televisions.

Connected portable devices -- The greater flexibility and content opportunities afforded by wireless connectivity will drive further experimentation, as we see more products embrace the ability to connect on-the-go.

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