Mumbai, March 7: A few months after leading consumer electronics player BPL Ltd launched its ad campaign claiming a copyright on the future, the company is preparing to launch its range of Web-based appliances. Mumbai-based Philips India Ltd too is in advanced stage of evaluating the possibility of a similar line of products.Says BPL Ltd chairman and managing director, AG Nambiar: ``BPL has been working for sometime on developing Web-based products. We were the first to introduce the PC TV which allowed users complete Internet access, in addition to other features such as, built in computer, DVD drive, 100 Hz flicker free picture etc.''
``This is only the beginning of the convergence revolution in consumer electronics in the Indian market. It is key to look for the right price and quality equation first before launching the products in the market,'' addsPhilips India senior vice-president, consumer electronics, Rajeev Karwal.While the timing of the launch of Philips' convergence products is not known, BPL will introduce an Internet set-top box and MP3 players in the Indian market within the next three months.
The company has signed MOUs with semi-conductor device manufacturers to jointly develop select technologies, informs Nambiar.
Although the pricing of the BPL range is not disclosed, it is expected to be `competitive', say company sources. Pertinently, the three appliances launched by Videocon late last month have been aggressively priced in the Rs 4,000 to Rs 15,000 price bracket, keeping the price sensitive Indian market in mind.
Says Karwal: ``We believe in functionality of a product offering. We are looking at bringing a quality range of convergence products at the right price and the requisite service backing.''
Copyright © 2000 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.