Google may have another major manufacturer ready to test the Google TV waters, with Samsung Electronics expected to make several product announcements during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2011.
There are more questions than answers as to how Samsung will adopt Google TV into its future products, but we’ll have to wait to see what is announced. Company executives didn't disclose how many products they plan to initially offer, or if LED TVs or 3DTVs will be included.
As Samsung looks to embrace connected technology, Samsung TV president Yoon Boo Keun acknowledged Samsung may use Intel chips.
Including apps and Web-connected products appears to be the most direct method to help keep people watching TV longer. The ability to stream and utilize enhanced features help keep users interested in what they're doing.
Sony already jumped on the Google TV bandwagon as the Japanese electronics company looks to compete with Samsung and other rivals in the market. Sony announced its first wave of Google TVs in October, and included a Google TV-enabled standalone Blu-ray player in its product lineup as well.
The pricey $300 Logitech Revue set-top box also currently uses Google TV to offer connected content -- but the device's high price has made consumers hesitant in adopting a product utilizing a new software platform.
Google TV-powered HDTVs are expected to be popular during CES in early 2011, with casual consumers now more interested in web connected TVs. Sony, Samsung, and other early adopters could get a jump on the Google TV market -- and help customers test its features sooner, as both companies are two of the largest electronics manufacturers.
Away from Google TV, there is a continued effort to blend Internet connectivity into TVs, allowing for streaming content, app support, and unique interactions with the TV.
