Google-TV

There is a lot of "buzz" about Google TV! The questions are:

What is it?

With Google-TV, users can channel-surf between traditional TV shows, websites, online video, social media, and eventually programs recorded on a DVR, all with just a few clicks of the remote.

I currently do this, by connecting my laptop to my TV, as an alternate channel. Of course, I have to access the internet through my laptop keyboard. With Google TV, you will be able to use a remote control (even your android phone or an Iphone). Once, you are connected, you will be able to see a mix of your existing TV channels, as well as internet. Look at this demo from Google-TV.

For more background look at Google-TV - Wikipedia definition.

What does it mean to you?

It may be too soon to buy this yet, as there is much to work out. Remember that Apple TV and Roku already have offerings that are in the same game. However, there is still content that is in question (Google is negotiating with existing media channels. Among those on-board early: NBC Universal, HBO, Turner Broadcasting and the NBA. There is much more happening.

A major concern is Digital Video Recording. Currently, most DVR's are controlled by cable companies and/or Satellite TV companies. So recording from the internet is not resolved yet, though there are alternative available. Most of the alternatives do not satisfy consumers as ideal. I'm sure this will be worked out in the coming months.

The following links are worth reading, and point out that this is big news. Its worth a trip to Best Buy or your favorite electronics store to find out more! Early adopters will pull their wallet out! I personally will wait a few months.

International Business Times

ZDNet link

Washington Post

Logitech deploys Google TV update to Revue 12/8/11

Does it replace my existing TV?

Maybe yes and maybe no. Many offerings will work with your existing TV. But you can bet, that the new TV's will have offerings that will enhace internet TV. Their remote controls will be different, that may have digital video recorders built in that will record without using your cable box, etc. This will happen very fast, and it will take time for this to settle down!

I recommend that you keep your existing TV for awhile, but keep your eyes and ears tuned to the latest developments. Internet video content is an exciting extension to your TV viewing.

What does it cost?

Set top boxes are available for just a few hundred dollars, and provide a limited benefit. They provide an internet connection to your TV, and a relatively crude interface with limitations. But, in the coming months, expect to see solutions in a wide range of prices. I know that my next TV will have internet availablity, as well as a "cool" interface. It will be a large screen (50 inches or better) and possibly 3D. It won't be cheap!