Google TV – Smart TV for the Masses

Google, today officially announced Google TV, a new platform that aims to integrate both Web browsing and cable TV with one device running its powerful Android operating system, set to arrive this fall.

Google said that TV today is too complicated, with too many channels and a poor interface for finding the shows you want to see. I tend to agree. Trying to sorts the thousands of programs on hundreds of channels is a difficult chore. They said many people these days end up watching videos on the Web, because it’s much easier to find what you’re looking for and watch it on your own schedule.

“The problem is, these smaller screens don’t compare to our home entertainment system,” the company says in a promotional video introducing Google TV. No joke, right? My 46 inch TV is way better to watch videos on… which is why people hook up their computer to their TV.

The new service will come integrated into some HDTVs, while other users can buy Google TV through a separate set-top-box. Using an on-screen Google search box, users can type in what they are looking for and find it, either on the Web or through their cable TV.

“It’s basically an entertainment hub that searches all of your channels, recorded shows, YouTube, and other websites,” the video says.

Google TV will feature a home screen like the new tab icon on Chrome does, where you can store your favorite locations, whether they’re cable channels, YouTube channels, websites, or anything else on TV or on the Web. This will come in very handy.

Google TV will also feature the full Chrome Web browser, and has access to the Android Market, so users can download unique applications to run from their HDTV in the living room. With HTML5 coming, this will make your TV the center of your home entertainment once again!

All devices running Google TV must have Wi-Fi and Ethernet built in. It offers integration with an existing cable or satellite set top box using HDMI, and comes with an infrared blaster to control them. Google TV hardware will also include a dedicated GPU, surround sound, a keyboard, and a pointing device.