As expected, one of the Google products to get some attention at Google I/O is the Google TV platform. Google continues to increase consistency across product lines and Google TV is no exception. The UI has been updated to provide access to the Google Play store that is similar to that found on other Android devices. Consumers can purchase movies, music, and TV shows through the store. Because Google Play works across devices, one will be able to start a show on one device and continue watching it across other devices.
Beyond the interface with the Google Play store that most consumers will see, Google is making improvements to the APIs, libraries and code that is available to developers. This should improve the availability of apps on the platform, such as the recently announced Sirius XM app.
On the hardware front, Google announced new devices from Sony, Vizio and LG. Interestingly, Google indicates developers will be able to “integrate devices” directly into Google TV in the future. I’m wondering if this means I’ll be able to control a Google TV via an app on my tablet or smartphone? Or some gesture based, virtual keyboards/controllers?
Are these improvements enough to get you to give Google TV a try? Already have Google TV and excited by the new features and capabilities? Let us know.
source: Google TV blog