Lenovo Smart TV Tipped For Late-2011

Lenovo is reportedly considering making a play for the smart TV market, following notebook rivals like Samsung and LG into the living room. According to DigiTimes sources, Lenovo is currently in talks with Wistron and Compal – who collectively count Sony, Toshiba and Hitachi among their clients – as well as other OEMs regarding production of the smart HDTVs.

The exact technology Lenovo may use for its smart TVs is unknown. Most companies are still using their own homegrown platforms, generally offering Netflix and other streaming media access, along with browsing photo and video galleries, while Sony has a range of Google TV equipped models that use the more complex system.

While Lenovo is yet to comment on the possibility of a smart TV push, the sources expect orders at OEMs to be placed in the second half of this year. That might suggest a holiday launch schedule.