Samsung has announced a new digital photo frame that can be connected to a computer and used as an extra display.

The SPF-83V connects to the computer via USB, so a second video output is not needed. Samsung, which already produces USB-connected monitors for business users, told journalists in Suwon, South Korea, that the small display would be useful for applications such as instant messaging.

The frame can connect to wireless networks, and can automatically download and display photographs from sites that provide updates in the RSS format used to update many blogs and podcasts.

It is also unusual in having a traditionally shaped screen. Unlike most digital frames, which use a widescreen shape, its 800x600 pixel display will show photographs from the vast majority of digital cameras without the need for cropping.

Samsung expects digital photo frames to become increasingly popular over the next few years, with a predicted market of 4 million frames worldwide in 2007 growing to 12.4 million in 2010.

Yun Ho Ha, Senior Vice President of Samsung’s Visual Display Division, said that photo frames had an “emotional appeal” as “they allow people to share their photos containing valuable moments with friends and families”.

No price was announced, but the SPF-83V is expected to cost around £170.