Skype recently announced that new web-connected TV sets from LG, Panasonic and Samsung will now ship with Skype software pre-loaded. Add a TV webcam and you can make high-definition video calls from the sofa.

On Skype’s website, the pitch is clear “Soon you’ll simply gather the whole family on the couch for video calls with loved ones overseas, and give them a regular window into life at home. And because it’s free Skype-to-Skype, you can call as often as you like”.

So the big question is, if a major attraction for older people to use computers is the abilty for them to chat with their relatives and that will be possible from the comfy sofa instead of perched in front of a computer, what will be the future of desktops for the older old?

Certainly makes a great Christmas gift idea for grandparents.