May 25, 2008

Tru2way Technology Explained

If you've been following the TV tech industry lately you've probably heard one of the latest buzz words, tru2way, being tossed around like a live grenade. So what is this mysterious Tru2way? Developed by Cable Labs, tru2way used to be known as OpenCable. Tru2way technology just sounds better and has a more attractive logo. All kidding aside, tru2way technology is an open platform that'll allow consumers to buy two-way "plug and play" TV's that are easy to set up, devoid of cable clutter thanks to the elimination of the set-top box, and ready to receive any interactive service's from cable no matter the consumer's location or cable company.

Tru2way technology will also give consumers the ability to have a heck of a lot more control over the content they watch thanks to the two-way capabilities of the technology. The control we have when surfing the web will migrate straight to our big screens. And because it's an open platform, it's universal providing the same functionality no matter what cable company or manufacturer implements it. From the click of a remote button, you'll be able to access interactive entertainment, shop, do your online banking and even chat with your friends via your TV.

A standardization of the cable industry in the US and access to interactive applications on your TV, or through your DVR or set-top box would be amazing for consumers. Cable companies such as Comcast expect to have 90% of their network ready by the end of 2008, and 60% already operating under the Tru2way platform. In 2009 Comcast expects that about half of the set-top boxes they ship will be Tru2way-capable. The cable industry expects that Tru2way-enabled set-top boxes and HDTV's shouldn't cost any more than those without Tru2way.