Virtual Assistants (VAs) are set to become the next-generation go-to interface, Futuresource reports-- with 41.8% of all home audio shipments of Q4 2018 featuring integrated VAs, an increase of 50% over Q4 2017.
In addition, Q4 2018 smart speaker shipments are up by 79% Y-o-Y.
“But it’s no longer all about the smart speaker,” the analyst says. “For TVs, VAs are being rolled out by leading brands such as LG, Sony, Panasonic and Samsung. Most involve a microphone in the remote control, similar to those used in media streamers, assuring a continued lifespan for the trusty set until manufacturers include microphones in the sets themselves. This can be costly and will require solutions for technical issues around noise and echo cancellation, due to microphones being located adjacent to TV speakers."