Sony has cast its hat into the ring and announced its intention to launch a Google TV. The Sony NSZ-GS7, unveiled this week at CES, is a network media player that hooks into the Google TV ecosystem, while the NSZ-GS9 adds Blu-ray playback to the mix. A separate Media Remote can be used to call up such content via a Bravia TV, Sony Tablet S or P.
Sony is describing the two Google TV products – both of which will launch initially in the US and Europe – as enabling the user to seamlessly watch TV broadcasts, browse the web and enjoy apps. Apps such as games, newsfeeds, sports updates and weather forecasts can be displayed onscreen while a programme or a YouTube video are being viewed.
Sony says that there are currently around 150 apps in the Android Market that are optimised to use on a TV screen and that address home entertainment needs. Anticipating users searching for music, Sony will preload the Google TV products with TrackID; video and TV programmes will also be searchable, though a separate cable or satellite settop box will be required in order to access not internet or terrestrial broadcasts.
