Consumers prefer fast broadband, not HD (News)

GamePro staff, GamePro (online)

19/06/2008 09:20:00

In a surprising blow to HDTV adoption, a new survey from Pike & Fischer Broadband Advisory Services showed that of all the "new" services lusted after by consumers today, high-def fell surprisingly short of Internet broadband as the "most desired" technology.

Ars technica reports that of the more than 280 survey respondents, almost 40 per cent gave high-speed data the highest rating. Only about 25 per cent ranked HDTV as "high importance."

The news is mixed for console makers Microsoft and Sony, which have both positioned their respective consoles as the "true" next-gen platforms, mostly due to their higher horsepower and 1080i and p graphical chops. The Wii, by comparison, runs at 480p with a separately sold cable.

On the plus side, a greater demand for online services delivered via faster broadband connections bodes well for all three console manufacturers. Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony each have an online offering paired up with their consoles; and each has stated plans to expand on those services.

Even so, with the US market already unaware of Blu-Ray (only about 40 per cent of PS3 owners know their console has the capability), this new survey is certainly a little more salt in the HD wound.