Sony launches Google TV

Sony is considering employing Google's Android OS in more consumer electronics devices.

The announcement came shortly after the launch of its first televisions using the software. Last week, in the U.S., Sony put on sale four models of TV that run Android and feature the Google TV platform. The sets are available in screen sizes from 24 inches to 46 inches and cost between US$600 and $1,400. A stand-alone Google TV box with built-in Blu-ray Disc player is also available for $400.

"We are thinking about using Android in more consumer electronics products," Yoshihisa Ishida, head of the company's TV division, revealed in Tokyo though he didn't specify the product line.
Android has been most widely used in smartphones. Sony Ericsson already offers an Android-based device-the Xperia X10. Some companies have also shown Android-based tablet PCs, but Sony is yet to announce development of such a device.

Sony and Google agreed in May to work together on pushing Android into consumer electronics and the recently launched TV was an initial target of the collaboration.

Google TV allows users to access Internet-based services from their televisions or while watching TV. A few clicks of a remote control can bring up Twitter so the user can tweet about the current show or read what others are saying, all while the show continues playing in a window in the corner of the screen. The Internet link also allows users to connect to on-demand video services. Free videos also can be watched via Google's YouTube service.These and several other net based functions are been provided in Google TV.

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