As we have recently heard from the I/O conference, Google is getting ready to roll out Google TV. The highlighted features are a search function for all programming, ability to “bookmark” channels to a home screen, and a built-in web browser. Sure these are nice features, which our cable and satellite providers should have made standard on their set-top boxes a few years ago. I’m talking to you DirectTV, with your prehistoric DVR machines that hang mid-scroll and boot up slower than a herd of turtles stampeding through peanut butter. But I digress.
Among Google’s few partners for this venture is Sony, who’s television displays will come stock with Google TV. So those of us who prefer a Samsung or Sharp LCD will we have to get Google’s separate set-top box. As it’s obvious from Google’s introduction video and the questionnaire on the get more information page, this product is aimed at those who consume an above average amount of television and movies, perhaps those with an entertainment system or home theater. I would guess that the last thing anyone with a home theater wants is another component to make space for. This is such a basic obstacle but I truly wonder how many people with existing cable/satellite boxes would want to buy another box to add to their mix of A/V receivers, amplifiers, processors, gaming consoles, network media tanks, surround speakers, etc.
Google didn’t ask for my input while developing Google TV. If they had, I would have told them I do want a television experience which combines web and TV. However, I want it to look and function similar to our smart phones. Each channel would be an app that delivers a fully integrated web/tv experience. If Bill Maher wants me to catch him on Overtime, after I’m finished watching the live show, I could hit “back” or “menu” on my remote then open the web function within the HBO application. I think this would create more opportunities for unique content which would go hand in hand with incremental advertising revenue. Just sayin..
Lastly, if unlike your DVR or TiVo, you couldn’t skip any commercials with Google TV, would you still use it?
