Google TV hasn't exactly taken the web world by storm. However, now they are planning on having the power of the Android Market (and a few other advancements) take them to the next level. Now we're talking!
Today, Sony made the announcement that its Sony Internet TV platform would receive the upcoming Google TV update, which means that hundreds of Android Market apps will soon be available on Sony Internet TVs and the Sony Internet TV Blu-ray Disc player.
The update will roll out to all connected Sony Internet TV devices by early next week. Future users will get the update during the initial start-up installation
Other new features promise a simpler, cleaner interface, better search functionality and an improved overall performance. Another perk boasts better integration with Android and iOS devices, such as the iPhone, iPad and various other smartphones and tablets.
Adding in hundreds of new app options will certainly entice more users. Of course, not every app is made for the big-screen experience. However, Sony plans to highlight a few of the best options under a on-screen Sony Select umbrella. Also, new app options will be added on a regular basis.
One of the apps available at launch will be TrackID, which can identify songs used in TV shows, packaged media and/or streaming video.
"Connected experiences are a pillar of Sony's value to TV consumers and Sony Internet Television powered by Google TV certainly brings 'smart' connectivity to the highest level," said Steve Haber, EVP, Sony Electronics. "We very much look forward to the possibilities the Android Market will create for customers to personalize their experience. Users will enjoy the new features that this update brings to their interactive engagement with home entertainment programming, either through Sony Internet TVs or Bu-ray Disc players."
Sony introduced its first Google TV-enhanced HDTV last October. Currently, the company offers the Sony Internet TV in four sizes: The 24-inch NSX-24GT1 (MSRP: $299.99), the 32-inch NSX-32GT1 ($499.99), the 40-inch NSX-40GT1 ($799.99), and the 46-inch NSX-24GT1 ($999.99). Besides all of those web goodies and a full 1080p HD image, each one provides easy navigation over all of those features via the included remote, which has a one-touch search button, a full QWERTY keypad and optical mouse control.
The Sony NSZ-GT1 Internet TV Blu-ray player is also available now, with an MRSP of $199.99. Our own Chris Chiarella took a peek at this player when it was first released, and recognized its promise. Check out his full Sony NSZ-GT1 Internet TV Blu-ray Disc Player with Google TV Review for more information.
Where to Buy:
