2012 models to have Skype app

[GPDawes]

Just read the article in What Hi Fi

Wondering if the apps will filter down to the 2011 models.

Here is the link

http://www.whathifi.com/news/philips...-2012-tv-range

[Toengel]

Hi,

don't think so, cause the Cam need hardware drivers... so 2012 only...

Toengel@Alex

[GPDawes]

Only requires a usb driver.

Already one for storage devices.

Should be quite simple. Wondering how much hardware similarity between the 2011/2012 ranges and if its the same code base compiled for new hardware.

Going to be an interesting year seeing how smart TV's shape up against google and apple tv.

My preference is for high quality dumb panels. Focus on sound and picture, If I want smart features I will add it from my blu ray device or media box.

Remember the old sony profeel in the early 80s ahead of its time when consumers were not use to having an external tuner.
Now days satellite, cable, hd all external boxes and multiple remotes. Consumers use to it.
Even a few years ago philips had a nice device with external tuner.

For me its much easier to add and choose apps/services on an external device , instead of the TV.
Tv to me is the end point, like speakers on a hi fi.
Should last years and be high quality.

[Nettle]

Only requires a usb driver.

Already one for storage devices.

Should be quite simple. Wondering how much hardware similarity between the 2011/2012 ranges and if its the same code base compiled for new hardware.

Hello,

a similar discussion was raised last year for the 2010 Philips TV purchaser (like me) with the request of an external keyboard for NET TV.
Only a simpe USB driver was enough t implement it.
We're still waiting for it: Philips has said "no" due to "technical" differences between 2010 and 2011 models!

Even the idea of a remote control with integrated keyboard was rejected (on the other side the idea was fully implementd from a famous Philips Competitor's Tv manufacturer )

Ok Philips has given a similar App for Android Phones but I can't buy an Android mobile phone to type sentences on the You Tube or Dailymotion NET TV display.

Regards

[zlatko]

@GPDawes
I fully agree with you - Skype mic&cam needs ONLY an USB driver(and HW kit of course). Even keyboard&mouse drivers are currently present on 2011 8&9 series. So pleae PHILIPS, do not put your premium customers aside, with adding this only for 2012 models!
And yes - TVs must be just dumb panels with best possible PQ, without even tuners integrated in them. Tuners, STB, OTT devices shall be sold separately, according the specific requirements of the user.

[Philips - Thomas]

Hi

Skype is not only about Drivers, Hardware has to be able to support 2 Video Streams same Time etc.
So no, this Feature will not be available for other Devices than 2k12.

Regards
Thomas

[GPDawes]

Thanks for clarification Thomas. Being enlightened is much better than being in the dark.
Appreciated.

Is not PIP and web apps handling 2 streams?
Anyway dont go there! Can close the thread now we have authoritative answer.

[zlatko]

Thank for the clarification Thomas! It is not an answer we like, but at least it is official and we know now not to expect Skype coming our(2011 devices) way.

[GPDawes]

In deep thought about this,
I am doubting explanation now, so many other sets have this feature, even lower end.

There are not 2 video streams. there is a USB data stream for users camera, the camera is not throwing out video, its throwing out digital data, and possibly a video stream or data stream for incoming. All processed could be by application to throw video at interface/display.

Off to look at Skype API's

[zlatko]

@GPDawes
For sure the 2011 8&9 series can handle Skype call. I think Thomas's answer was a polite way to say: "Skype is not coming to 2011 devices". That is a decision that we can not change.

[Muehle]

Every mid-class smartphone can handle skype calls...
Panasonic, Toshiba, Samsung, LG also support skype.
Is Philips hardware really so poor? Then this should be my last Philips-TV after 21 years.

Thanks

[Toengel]

Hi,

if you implement Skype, the whole (software) architecture must be adjusted. Just compare it with e.g. Internet Explorer 9 - due to the architecture the IE9 does not work on Windows XP. Just my 2 cents...

Toengel@Alex

[Muehle]

Nice comparison.
IE9 doesn´t run on XP because Microsoft has to change some operating system features like hardware acceleration, but XP is running out of support (after 13 years!!!).
Philips has to change some software features, but 2011 models... (after 1 year!)
You know what i mean?