Archos is getting ready for 2013 International CES with a new media device called Archos TV Connect, which brings Android 4.1 to HDTVs.

While the company is popular for its tablet offerings, Archos is now preparing to bolster its presence at the annual CES tech fest with new gadgets. CES kicks off this Tuesday, Jan. 8, and runs through Jan. 11. It draws huge crowds each year and makes some serious waves in the tech world, as all sorts of companies, be they small or big, strive to capture the audience with their newest, fastest, "best-est" of gadgets.

Archos announced that its new TV Connect will be on display at CES 2013, aiming to offer a better way to enjoy the popular Android platform. So, what is TV Connect? Simply put, it turns the HDTV into some sort of an Android tablet - somewhat like a Google TV, but with a tablet interface. Its maker claim the device as a "Multi-Touch TV for Android."

"The TV Connect allows you to control your TV just like a tablet - tap, swipe, zoom in, zoom out, select or type. With the TV connect users will be able to play games, stream videos, video chat in HD, email friends or surf the web all from their big-screen TV," touts the press release. "As a pioneer in multimedia Android devices, we wanted to create a bigger, better way to enjoy Android," said Archos Founder and CEO Henri Crohas. "The Archos TV connect provides users with a multi-touch, multi-media Smart TV experience powered by Android."

The gadget can be connected to an HDMI-compatible TV, allowing users to control it using the special TV Touch remote control. The Archos TV Connect is slated to hit the market in February 2013, with a retail price of $129.99. The device will run on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, allowing users to access Google Play apps and games on their HDTV.

When it comes to connectivity, the TV Connect terminal has support for USB and HDMI and it also comes with an HDMI cable in the package. The gadget will also feature Ethernet and Wi-Fi, provide support for H.264 and 1080p playback, and allow for additional memory via micro SD.

Other features include an HD webcam, as well as notifications LED, which means users will be able to enjoy video chat services such as Google Talk, Skype, or others on the big screen.

The Archos TV Connect package also includes the TV Touch remote control, a QWERTY keypad that supports multi-touch gestures, Android-specific shortcuts, as well as gaming buttons.

Considering that the Archos TV Connect brings access to the Google Play Store, the gadget will likely function as some sort of media player/set top box, much like other products of its kind.