Google TV hasn’t exactly made a name for itself, but is hoping to change that by adding new programming options and services to its lackluster video product.
“Given so much choice, we’re committed to delivering the best way to discover and engage with the high-quality entertainment on your television, whether that comes from your cable or satellite provider (DISH, Comcast, DIRECTV, etc.) or from the Web (YouTube, Netflix, and thousands more),” according to a blog post authored by Mario Queiroz, vice president product management, and Vincent Dureau, director of engineering at Google TV.
The Google TV executives even acknowledged its platform was less than perfect and in need of more changes.
“The initial version of Google TV wasn’t perfect, but launching it gave us the opportunity to learn. These are still early days, and we’re working hard to move forward with each update,” the blog post said.
If you are still asking “Google TV who?” you aren’t alone, according to analysts.
Michael Pachter, an Internet and media industry analyst with Wedbush Securities told Business Insider, “I don’t think the average person cares [about Google TV] or should care. My guess is that fewer than 10 percent of consumers could explain what Google TV is.”
Still, Google TV announced several software updates including: a simpler interface with a new customizable home screen. “And within ‘all apps’ you can see all of your shortcuts, similar to your Android phone or table,” the blog post explained.
Google TV has also improved its search capabilities by adding an app called “TV & Movies” that allows users to browse through 80,000 movies and TV episodes across cable or satellite, Netflix, Amazon, YouTube and other sites.
In related news, chipmaker Intel revealed earlier this month that it officially closed the doors and thrown away the key to the Digital Home Group that was responsible for designing chips for TV set-top boxes including Google TV devices powered by both Sony and Logitech, as well as other Boxee boxes from D-Link.
The decision by the company came at time where Google TV simply isn’t meeting expectations, causing Google to look at other avenues in which their product can be released specifically zeroing in on ARM for the next generation of Google TV. ARM president Tudor Brown acknowledges that his company has been in talks with Google for almost a year now, TechZone360 reported.
Erin Harrison is Executive Editor, Strategic Initiatives, for TMC, where she oversees the company's strategic editorial initiatives, including the launch of several new print and online initiatives. She plays an active role in the print publications and TechZone360, covering IP communications, information technology and other related topics. To read more of Erin's articles, please visit her columnist page.Edited by
Rich Steeves
