At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Netflix announced a new program called Netflix Recommended TV, which it describes as an independent smart TV evaluation program to help consumers identify TVs built for “a superior Internet TV experience.”

“We’’ve created the Netflix Recommended TV program to help consumers identify smart TVs that offer better performance, easier menu navigation and new features that improve the experience for Internet TV services,”’’ explains Netflix chief product officer Neil Hunt. ““When you see a TV with the Netflix Recommended TV logo, it means that TV will provide an excellent Netflix experience, based on criteria our members tell us matter most.’’”

“Over the last seven years, Netflix engineers have worked with makers of Internet-ready televisions, game consoles, set-top boxes and mobile devices to test their products and ensure consumers get a great Netflix experience right out of the box,” the company says. “With the Netflix Recommended TV logo, TV manufacturers will be able to highlight products that offer both the best Netflix experience and superior smart TV performance.”

Sony, LG, Sharp, VIZIO, and manufacturers of Roku TVs are expected to make the first Netflix Recommended TVs available this spring. Also this spring, additional performance criteria will be announced, such as the ability to turn the TV on instantly, faster app launch and faster resume of video playback.

The program is U.S. only for now, but will eventually expand worldwide. Certified TVs will vary in size and pricing.

Image via Netflix