On Wednesday Logitech unveiled the first hardware for Google TV and it was also revealed that negotiations for content with Hulu, one of the most popular television streaming services, are now underway.
The question entering everyone’s mind seems to be whether good content and hardware can overcome the relatively high price tag.
The new set-top box, the Logitech Revue, is much more sleek and stylish than a standard cable or satellite TV-type of receiver. Capabilities include HDMI 1.3 with 1080p, 2 USB ports, and an 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless connection. There is also SPDIF audio out and an Ethernet port.
While the receiver includes support for Logitech’s Harmony remote and also has smartphone apps available to control the unit, it does come with a QWERTY keyboard that is equipped with a built-in touchpad and d-pad.
The Revue is available now for pre-order for $299, a full $200 more than Apple TV. For another $149 you can get a TV cam for video chats, and a “mini-controller” is also available for $130 extra.
"That's a piece of change," said industry analyst Colin Gillis. "The price point, as Apple has pointed out, for a device like this is about $99. So, it's expensive and yet another box you've got to plug in."
To sweeten the pot a bit (justify the price?), Google also announced that negotiations were underway to bring Hulu programming to the upcoming service. This would be a smart move, as Google TV lacks any type of partnership with major networks thus far. Unfortunately, the programming would likely be strictly for those who subscribe to Hulu Plus, which is a paid subscription service.
At a time when many people I know are scaling back to basic cable services in order to save a few dollars per month, I have to wonder if the lure of “cool apps” will be enough for consumers to shell out $300+ for the Google TV experience. For me, it’s a bit too much to justify.
