The market for connected TVs and other devices like game consoles, set-top boxes, and Blu-ray players is booming. The ability to surf the web and stream content online from connected home theater gear is become common on many high-end and mid-range offerings. Not all of the devices will let the user actually explore the full internet though. Sony has announced that it has chosen Opera as the browser for its LCD TVs and connected Blu-ray players.

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The browser for the Sony hardware uses the Opera Devices Software Development kit as a framework for web-standards based solutions and web surfing on the connected devices. The browser will be able to deliver web apps, widgets, full web browsing, and supports standards like HTML5, HbbTV, and OIPF.

With the addition of the browser to the Sony TVs and Blu-ray players users will need one less device to access the web when watching TV on a big screen. Opera offers no exact date on when we will see the browser surface on Sony hardware.

"The Web as we know it is evolving, and we are committed to making it more accessible across diverse devices," said Christen Krogh, Chief Development Officer, Opera Software. "Our ability to address key hybrid broadcast-broadband initiatives in numerous markets makes us a natural fit with Sony. By delivering both a global viewpoint and the necessary technology, we are able to stay on the cutting edge of the industry."