LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic, a leader
in Full HD 3D technology and built-in TV web entertainment, today
announced the launch of a new Social TV feature, Split Screen, that
allows the user to simultaneously launch Skype(1) while enjoying
their favorite shows on their VIERA HDTV. Skype brings Social TV
functionality to a whole new level after the recent introduction of
original Social TV app that allows one to access social media sites
such as Twitter and Facebook while also enjoying programming
simultaneously on their VIERA HDTV.
"Skype has proven to be very popular for Panasonic's VIERA
Connect(2) and our research showed that users wanted a feature that
would permit them to watch their HDTV, while at the same time video
chatting with friends and family," said Panasonic Corporation of
North America Vice President, Merwan
Mereby. "VIERA Connect is a cloud based and a robust IPTV
platform that lets consumers connect like never before. We firmly
believe that Connected TV will continue to become an increasingly
important feature for consumers and Panasonic is focused on
providing the consumer with the best possible Internet experience
and to that end we are working diligently to build upon the already
strong entertainment and connectivity experiences our VIERA Connect
customers can enjoy."
The expansion of Skype to allow viewers to simultaneously watch
TV while video calling is the latest example of Panasonic's
continuing effort to re-define the TV experience. The latest apps
join entertainment and information favorites such as Netflix,
Amazon Instant Video™, huluPLUS, CinemaNow, Ustream, Skype™ voice
and video calling, Twitter, Facebook, Pandora®, YouTube™, Google's
Picasa™ Web Album, and WSJ (Wall Street Journal) Live; as well as
sports sites including, MLS and Fox Sports(3); gaming sites, such
as Asphalt5 and Free Throw; health and wellness sites, such as Body
Media® and Withings Body Mass Scale; and weather service from
Accuweather. The great majority of VIERA Connect apps are free to
the consumer.
Panasonic introduced its IPTV platform four years ago and in
that time the internet functionality has grown to include movies,
music, social media, gaming, weather, major sports sites and health
and wellness sites. Panasonic's IPTV functionality was designed to
provide consumers with access to these exceptional sites without
the need for an additional set-top box or computer. All the
functionality is built into the products.
"When combined with Panasonic's award winning Full HD 3D VIERA
HDTVs, the enhanced VIERA Connect Internet platform provides the
consumer with exceptional entertainment value and variety," added
Mereby.
(1) Skype video calling requires a Skype-enabled camera
available from Panasonic, sold separately, to make video calls.
(2) Access to a broadband internet connection is required to access
VIERA Connect features.
(3) Will support subscription service in the future.
About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America
Based in Secaucus, N.J.,
Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic
Corporation of North America, the
principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE:
PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and
R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in
the U.S. and Canada. The Company's portfolio of innovative
consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray
players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless
Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and
more.
Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the
earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the
company's Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer
Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the
Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking. Follow Panasonic
on Twitter @panasonicdirect, and additional company information for
media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.
SOURCE Panasonic