Survey: Connected TVs On The Rise

Google can breathe easier knowing retail salesmen not only know of Google TV's existence but they've seen strong consumer interest in all connected TVs as well, according to one survey.

Research firm Creative Channel Services (CCS)'s nationwide surveyed 3,600 electronic retail sales associates and found 80 percent know of connected TVs. The relatively new internet based TV technology has been offered as a standalone product and embedded in TVs, Blu-ray players and other entertainment devices.

Fifty-three percent of the respondents said the interest for this type of product from consumers was at "very interested." Among devices that could offer a unified multimedia experience, it ranked higher all others including web surfing, streaming video, online applications, music and photographs.

"This survey is very telling," Andy Restivo, president and CEO of CCS, said in a statement. "The survey highlights the fact that the average retail salesperson carries with them a tremendous amount of product knowledge, even for nascent technologies. As key influencers of consumer purchasing decisions, retail salespeople can drive adoption of cutting-edge technologies and help new products find homes in people's living rooms."