Samsung Electronics unveiled its Evolution Kit at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), in Las Vegas, last week. The Evolution Kit allows users to update their 2012 TVs with the features found on Samsung's 2013 Smart TVs by plugging it into the back of the older device.
"The Evolution Kit has opened a new era of Smart TV and completed a true Smart TV experience with its innovative concept, which fits well within the rapidly changing IT environment," said Justin Shaw, business leader for visual display at Samsung Electronics.
According to Samsung, the Evolution Kit allows consumers to enjoy the latest services from Samsung's Smart TVs as hardware and software specifications improve in the future. The latest Smart TVs boast hardware enhancements, such as CPU, memory and GPU, allowing users to enjoy faster Internet browsing and multitasking functionality.
Samsung's Smart Interaction features, including voice and motion control, will also be enhanced. The Evolution Kit also updates the 2012 Smart Hub to the 2013 version, featuring five panels where consumers can choose from live TV programmes, VODs, apps and the Internet.
"Consumers can enjoy the latest features and services every year without having to purchase a brand new set. Samsung Smart TV users will enjoy timeless TV that transcends time, with the Evolution Kit," says Shaw.
According to Samsung, upgrade kits will start shipping in the US during March and pricing will be announced closer to release.
Software Development Kit
In addition to the Evolution Kit, Samsung also released the Smart TV Software Development Kit (SDK) 4.0 at CES. In the past, Samsung's Smart TV software development only supported the Windows operating system, but the new SDK will see developers building apps for Samsung TVs on Linux and Mac. The move promotes the development of Smart TV software in areas where non-Windows operating systems are used.
According to Samsung, the local cloud development environment allows developers who use Mac to team up with developers who use Windows, encouraging team effort and resulting in development efficiency and reduced costs. The Smart TV SDK 4.0 supports HTML5, enabling the development of convergence applications.
"Samsung has been making continued efforts to build an ecosystem where software developers from across the globe can more easily develop Smart TV software and applications. The creative ideas of developers and innovative features of Samsung Smart TVs will come together to offer optimal Smart TV experiences to customers," concludes Shaw.
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