HTC Connect: Wireless AV kite mark promises compatibility with HTC devices

HTC Connect is a new wireless certification program for AV units and speakers that promises seamless compatibility with HTC phones and tablets.

The idea is that if you see the HTC Connect logo on the box of your TV, home cinema system or portable speakers, then they’ve been primed to work with HTC devices like the HTC One X and HTC One S.

The initial HTC Connect certified products will be DLNA-based, similar to HTC’s existing Media Link HD accessory. This little device plugs into an HDMI port on your TV and lets you easily push content from your HTC phone to the screen, or enable mirror mode – check out our HTC Media Link HD hands-on.

The HTC Connect program will evolve to include Bluetooth, NFC, wireless speakers, plus in-car audio and video.

Kouji Kodera, chief product officer for HTC said “The vision for HTC Connect is to allow our customers to easily stream their favourite high-quality video and audio from their smartphone into their home or car. This new initiative will build upon HTC’s innovation in smartphones with leading consumer electronics brands.”

 

HTC Connect: A Pioneering venture

The first brand on board will be Pioneer, which will be announcing HTC Connect-certified AV receivers and wireless speakers at the CEA Line Shows in New York this week.

“We’re very pleased to be working with HTC on this important evolution of audio technology, which fits very well with Pioneer’s strong commitment to embracing the smartphone movement in our home entertainment products,” says Russ Johnston, executive vice president, Home Electronics Division, Pioneer Electronics.

“The use of smartphones as primary content sources in the home is a trend that’s developing very quickly, and HTC is helping to provide a much-needed solution for a very significant and growing part of the market.”

So while HTC hasn’t announced the Freeview HD box or Smart TV of our dreams here, it’s dipped another toe into the AV waters. We’re looking forwards to seeing who else gets on board with HTC Connect and what other directions it takes.