Following NTT DoCoMo Inc.'s success in turning cellular phones into gateways to the Internet, Japanese electronics makers are putting their efforts into making TV sets the next doorway to cyberspace.
Earlier this month, Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Sony Corp. and Toshiba Corp. announced a joint project to create a platform for electronic commerce and other new services via an advanced digital TV tuner with interactive functions. Hitachi, Ltd., another major electronics maker, is expected to join the team to create what they call an "e-platform."
The move reflects the bright future foreseen for digital broadcasting services.