Competition in the Chinese smart television segment, which heated up last year, is expected to further intensify this year.

Beijing Funshion Online Technology Co Ltd, which was established in 2005 as a technology company specializing in broadcast, content search and distribution of streaming media, fired the first salvo by releasing its first smart TV model on Dec 10.

Funshion's competitors could get restless over its low prices: 1,799 yuan ($277) for a 43-inch screen model, 2,299 yuan for a 49-inch one, and 2,799 yuan for a 55-inch set.