Panasonic&39's new UniPhier 1 System LSI for smart TVs.

Panasonic has unveiled a new technology to improve the performance of smart TVs.

Smart TVs are more than just sets that allow users to watch broadcast content. The enhanced televisions also feature applications like Netflix, Pandora, and others. Several TV makers, including Vizio, Samsung, and Panasonic, currently offer smart TVs. However, the smart TV market is still quite young, and many vendors would agree that much more can be done to enhance the user experience.

Panasonic is trying to do just that with its new UniPhier 1 System LSI chip that, it promises, will improve performance of smart TVs. The chip is based on a 1.4GHz dual-core ARM Cortex processor. It also has an integrated 3D graphics circuit and audio and video codec.

According to Panasonic, the offering will allow viewers to "simultaneously enjoy two TV broadcasting channels, as well as Internet-based content and applications in high-resolution at the same time." The chip will also help reduce power consumption, the company said.

Panasonic is planning to launch the new chips in "sample shipments" starting this month. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment on whether the new chip will be sold to other TV makers or be kept solely for Panasonic's own line of televisions.