Google TV Details Revealed

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Posted by Soulskill on Monday October 4, 2010 @06:44AM from the searching-imdb-with-my-remote-control-will-change-my-life dept.

Today Google provided new information about their upcoming Google TV platform for set-top boxes. Using a video and a demonstration site, they show how apps will look and function, and stressed that users wouldn't be limited in their ability to browse the web on their TV. Google also announced content partners, which include Turner Broadcasting, NBC Universal, HBO, Netflix and Amazon Video. "We have also been working with some leading technology and media companies to optimize their content for Google TV, including news sites like The New York Times and USA Today; music sites like VEVO, Pandora and Napster; information networks like Twitter; and online networks like blip.tv. And with YouTube Leanback, we can offer the best experience for you to watch your favorite viral videos and personalized channels on the television." For developers, they put up a guide to optimize websites for Google TV.

5 of 180 comments (clear)

Re:Settle In Sweetheart by by+(1706743) · 2010-10-04 07:00 · Score: 5, Funny

You: Put the kids to bed and make some popcorn. It's viral video night!
Spouse: Great, I just love watching my favorite viral videos!
You: Me too!
Spouse: I love you honey.
You: I sent you a link to a really awesome viral video, let's watch that, ok?
Spouse: Great idea, my lovey-dov...
Google TV: NEVER GONNA GIVE YOU UP / NEVER GONNA...
Spouse: I'm filing for divorce.
Re:1995 called... by Walt+Dismal · 2010-10-04 07:02 · Score: 5, Funny

1880 telegraphed. They want their meme updated, but they have no tech support back there.
Re:1995 called... by rakuen · 2010-10-04 07:15 · Score: 5, Funny

550 BC mailed. The Persians apologize for delivering this joke.
Re:1995 called... by Anonymous Coward · 2010-10-04 07:23 · Score: 5, Funny

The same wisecracks come out every time a new device comes out. They always point to some failed device in the past and laugh, never realizing that the first device of a particular type is almost never the one that becomes the commercial success.
I *know*!
The perfect example of this is how TV was actually invented in Russia in the twenties, but wasn't a big time commercial hit back then. The main reason being just a slight difference in operation compared to our later western TV:s: Instead of you watching the TV, the TV was watching you.
No content by StubNewellsFarm · 2010-10-04 07:50 · Score: 5, Insightful
Lest you be deceived by the article summary, let's run down the content:
- Turner Broadcasting and NBC Universal: No, they're not providing shows. They're just updating their websites, so that you can view them on your TV.
- HBO: Yes, you get HBO shows on demand. If you already subscribe to HBO. This is perfect for all 10 people who went for the high-end cable package but who don't have a DVR.
- Netflix and Amazon on demand: Just like pretty much every internet-connected box produced in the last 3 years.
I don't want a web browser on my TV. I do want a way to ditch my cable TV and still get access to shows on demand. So far, at least, this doesn't get us any closer than Apple TV, Roku, Boxee or anyone else.