Countdown to CES

Last year was all about going bigger, with Panasonic unveiling a 150-inch flat-screen plasma TV prototype, but this year the focus will be inside the (much cheaper) TV set. LG, Panasonic and Sony all have committed to embedding Comcast’s tru2way in their TV sets by the end of the year, and Panasonic, Samsung and Sharp already have manufactured Internet-connected TV models this year. Over-the-top video providers also will show they are a force to be reckoned with at this year’s show. Netgear will showcase a new set-top box (STB) to stream high-definition YouTube videos on the big screen, and Netflix is likely to look for more embedded opportunities with Blu-ray players, STBs and TVs themselves.

On the wireless front, more Google Android devices from other Open Handset Alliance members, including LG, Motorola and Samsung, also may be unveiled, most likely mimicking the iPhone in form and function. Mobile TV courtesy of local broadcasters supporting the ASTC standard will be demoed by the Open Mobile Video Coalition on a plethora of mobile handsets and devices. Finally, following the launch of its own application store today, Palm is predicted to unveil its own operating system, Nova, at a CES press event — pulling the struggling vendor on its way back from the dead.

This clearly is just the tip of the iceberg for this infamously enormous show. Where will you spend your time at CES? Any predictions or expectations for the show? Leave your comments below.