Sony launches Google TVs and BD player in US

Sony has unveiled its first products based on Android technology, using Google to add Internet functionality to TV and BD models.

Shown in New York, the Google range features four TVs and a Blu-ray player. There are 24-, 32-, 40- and 46-inch TVs; the NSX-24GTI (around $600), NSX-32GTI ($800), NSX-40GTI ($1,000) and NSX-46GTI ($1,400).

The Blu-ray player NSZ-GT1 (at around $399) will feature most of the interactive functions, for playback through non-Google TV-enabled displays. Perhaps surprisingly, neither the TVs nor the BD player will support 3D playback.

The Google TV system comes with a hand-held RF QWERTY-type keypad remote control incorporating an optical mouse to simplify content navigation.

Launch partner Logitech announced a Google TV set-top box, along with remote control handsets and keyboards, while Dish Network announced that certain connected Dish Network DVR boxes will enable the playback of Dish Network content through the Google TV interface.

The Google TV system runs the Google Chrome browser and features an Intel Atom processor. It's designed mainly to enable searching for TV content across the Internet, using technology developed in part by Rovi. Other built-in applications including Netflix, Android Market, CNBC, Gallery Player, Napster, Netlife, Facebook, Pandora and Twitter.

Apps are designed to be used separately or alongside TV programs on the screen, and selected mobile devices such as Android phones can control the TV with an app that will be available for download from the mobile Android Market later this year.

The sets also include Sony's Qriocity service which accesses subscription-based music, movies and games. Sets connect to the Internet via built-in Wi-Fi receivers.

Sony's Mike Abary said "We're combining the power of HDTV, the power of the full Internet, and the power of apps to create a seamless experience. TV and Internet together at last. Systems in the past have failed because they held back the success of the Web on TV."

Features include support for customised homepages, Google-powered playlists of favourite videos and music, creation of personal radio stations via Pandora, access to music via Napster and photo galleries using photo-sharing sites or mobile phones.

We don't expect to see Sony Google TV products in Europe until next year, but we'll bring you more on the American experience soon.