Sony SMP-N100 internet TV box April 2011

Internet access through a TV isn't solely about web browsing, it's more about watching web-hosted TV content through a TV, rather than a PC or laptop.

Through the Sony Bravia Internet Video service, viewers can easily access content from BBC iPlayer, YouTube and LoveFilm, but this service is only fitted on some of Sony's newest tellies

Now Sony has created the SMP-N100, a box that plugs into any TV and brings viewers the Sony Bravia Video service, for a fraction of the cost of replacing an often perfectly good older TV.

If you're thinking of replacing your TV, check out our lab-based LCD and plasma TV reviews

Sony SMP-N100 first look video

The Bravia Internet Video service that users get through the SMP-N100 doesn't boast every feature or offer exactly the same experience that you'd get through one of Sony's latest TVs, but the core features are there - it's mainly the web-browser that's missing.

The box also has a USB port that allows users to plug in external hard drives and play video and music, and view photos on the TV screen.

The SMP-N100 is DLNA (digital living network alliance) enabled. This means it can search for content saved on other DLNA-compatible devices on your home network, such as a laptop or desktop computer, and play it back wirelessly on the connected TV.

Sony's Qriocity service is also available through the SMP-N100, bringing music streaming and on-demand video through Sony's Qriocity portal.

Sony SMP-N100 TV compatibility

This Sony box has a number of connectivity options but may not work with all older TVs. It has a component video output, composite video output, and optical digital and analogue stereo audio outputs, but no Scart connector. It can also be connected to an HDTV over an HDMI cable

Alongside these ports there's also an Ethernet socket, but the box does have built-in wi-fi too. It comes with its own remote control.

LG offers a similar solution for accessing LG's Smart TV internet service through a regular TV. To find out more about this similar product, check out our LG ST600 Smart TV upgrader first look.

We will lab-test and review both of these internet TV boxes soon to see how they compare.