Although televisions continue to push the limits of technology, for the first time in 20 years the number of TVs in the United States has declined. According to research by the Nielsen Company, which records the number of TV set owners when when measuring ratings, recently said that 96.7 percent of households in 2012 will own a TV, down from the previous measurements of 98.9 percent for 2011.
According to the study, there are several reasons for the decline. Increased poverty is leading more low-income households to bypass purchasing a TV and younger people opting to watch television shows through their computers. Nielsen is considering redefining the term “television household” to include internet viewers.
“We’ve been having conversations with clients,” said Pat McDonough, senior vice president for insights and analysis at Nielsen. “That would be a big change for this industry, and we’d be doing it in consultation with clients if we do it.”
The last time the number of TV households in the United States declined was 1992, and that came as the result of a poor economy, eventually rebounding in the mid 1990s. With the latest economic struggles faced by many Americans, it is not surprising to find out fewer people are purchasing TVs.
However, as most technology ages, the prices drop, offering more people the opportunity to buy high-definition TVs. When plasma products first hit the market, people spent thousands of dollars. Today, however, plasma TVs of the same size not only offer more efficient technology, they are also less expensive.
Whether this trend continues or not, new TVs continue to be released. Now, many providers offer 3D TVs. If you are considering purchasing a new TV, Newegg.com offers all of the best brands and products on the market.
