In addition to 3D, the "next big thing" in the flat panel market is network connectivity; the ability for a TV to seamlessly connect to the Internet and stream video content, from home recordings, to funny YouTube clips, to full-fledged TV shows and movies.

According to DisplaySearch, this function is ready to soar, with an estimated 119 million connected TVs projected to ship in 2014. Already, more than half (55%) of TVs available in Japan, North America, Europe, China, and India, have DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) capability, a standard that affords easy communication among devices, regardless of manufacturer. This is expected, says the research firm, to translate to more than 45 million connected TVs, thus representing 19% of the flat panel market in 2010. By 2014, that percentage penetration will reach 42%.

"We have seen DLNA as a solution in search of a problem for a long while, but with the surge in media streaming, the technology has found its place; creating business opportunities for TV set makers, broadcasters and retailers," says Paul Gray, Director of TV Electronics Research at DisplaySearch. "The Internet video battleground will take place in the living room, with all facets of the TV supply chain trying to stake claims. As a result, the competition is creating attractive new viewing choices for consumers, which underpins the value of the TV's network connection."

No doubt the upcoming launch of NetFlix in Canada will bring the concept of the connected TV even more to the forefront here.

In related news, DisplaySearch notes that energy efficiency is also a growing trend within the flat panel market, with an estimated 80%+ LCD TVs shipped in 2014 employing LED backlighting technology.

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