Sony Unveils Internet TV with Google TV Service
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CREDIT: Sony |
Sony announced a new line of TVs yesterday that are the first to integrate the new Google TV hardware and service. The "Internet TVs" are large and so is the remote.
As expected , Sony unveiled four different display sizes in their Internet TV line: 24-inch for $600, 32-inch for $800, 40-inch for $1000, and 46-inch for $1400. All are 1080p resolution sets with built-in Wi-Fi, four HDMI ports and four USB ports.
Sony says that its line of Internet TVs will be the only Google TVs available this holiday season, but that doesn't mean there aren't other ways to get Google TV without buying a new TV .
Sony uses Google Chrome as the browser for Google TV services and searches. It pulls content from TV, the Web and anything stored on a connected DVR device.
One thing that does stand out is the massive remote control accompanying the Internet TVs. It looks almost like a game console controller, but even bigger and bulkier. It features two directional navigation pads, a host of standard TV buttons (channel, volume, input, etc.) as well as a full QWERTY keyboard with number keys.
The size of the remote is perhaps necessary given that the Internet TV has more functionality than a standard HDTV, and it can access parts of the Internet that are better suited to a QWERTY keyboard . But that likely won't keep consumers from being startled at its size and confused by the array of buttons.
Sony also announced an Internet-capable Blu-ray player along with the TVs, although it is not necessary to have in order to get Google TV service on the Sony TVs.
