70
Google TV
Released September, 2010
The Pros:Simply "search" for your favorite shows on TV. Includes a full web browser on your TV. Supports Flash.
The Cons:Can't install on your PC. Only in USA at first. Only works with a few DVRs.
Google TV is a software platform that combines the web experience on your TV. It was announced on May 20th, 2010 and is found integrated in certain Sony TVs and standalone Logitech products. It is built on Android (Google's mobile operating system), and, because of this, will run any Android app from the marketplace.
Google is attempting to make finding video content easier while also adding the ability to personalize how you organize such content. Google TV 2.0 was released October 28, 2011 and features the Honeycomb build of Android 3.1. It's interface has undergone a significant overhaul, however it still lacks access to much of the available online content. It will interface directly with Dish Network DVRs only, allowing you to search and record to your DVR directly from the Google TV interface.
User Reviews (9)
Pros & Cons
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6
simply "search" for your favorite shows on TV
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5
includes a full web browser on your TV
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5
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5
a great opportunity for the majority of TV manufacturers such as Sharp, Samsung, etc... to replace their proprietary Internet interfaces
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4
bookmark and organize your favorite shows and videos aggregated across TV and the web
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4
use your Android phone to issue voice commands to your TV
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4
Android apps will work on your TV..it is built on Android after all
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4
will feature YouTube Leanback product that is YouTube optimized for the TV
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4
fair number of at-launch hardware partners ensure wide adoption - include partners for stand-alone set-top boxes (Logitech) and others for built-in functionality (Sony)
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4
picture in picture support - browse the web while watching TV
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3
open-source, and has an SDK available..opens up the possibilities for development from the broader community
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3
includes at launch distribution and content partners (BestBuy & Dish Network)
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1
significantly improved interface with Google TV 2.0
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1
nice integration of widgets to customize your home screen
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5
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2
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2
only works with a few DVRs
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2
Relies on existing services which are ready for the prime time
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1
platform won't be available for developers until 2011
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1
requires a set-top box with HDMI output
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1
Still has the live TV problem, no talk of live sports broadcasts
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1
needs more content to unlock it's potential
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-1
no Google hardware product at launch in Fall 2010..it will come included in Sony and Logitech products
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-1
Google hasn't proven they've been able to make dead-simple consumer ready media devices
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Comments (1)
Erik:
#google_tv The newest iteration of Google TV released this week is a major step forward in TV. The first version of Google TV had a lukewarm reception, but the latest improvements may have already solidified Google as the leader in next-gen TV.
The update makes your TV feel like an Android device optimized for the large viewing screening and use of a wireless remote.
Everything is searchable: movies, shows, channels, sporting events, etc. Once you find the content, it lists various options on how to watch it: live TV, Netflix, Hulu, DVR, YouTube, etc. It seamless integrates the sources of video so nicely that it almost doesn't matter where you're getting your content.
Because it's Android Honeycomb, you can do anything on your TV as you would your Android tablet, or smart phone except phone calls and txting. You could install an IM app such as Kik, WhatsApp or PingChat mind you.
I think the media player could be improved, as well as the support for more set top boxes other than Dish Network DVRs. We're very close to a Google TV mainstream domination, and I welcome it.
Nov 4, 11
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