Sony has introduced several new high-definition TVs and a Blu-ray player using the new Google TV platform. Widgets and Web-connected HDTVs are the new craze in the home entertainment market, and Sony hopes consumers will be drawn in with the lure of using Google TV.
The new Google TV-powered products will be sold under the "Sony Internet TV" brand name, and have the following size HDTV models prepared for launch: 24", 32", 40", and 46". The 24" model will be available for $599, 32" for $799.99, 40" for $999, and the 46" model will cost $1,399.99. The Sony Blu-ray player with integrated Google TV will launch at $399.99.
The TVs include 1080p LCD screens that are EDGE LED backlit (except for the 24"inch model), four USB ports, four HDMI ports, and Wi-Fi support. Sony also includes a remote control that even has a full QWERTY keyboard on the bottom of the remote.
The addition of Google TV opens the door to even more content and apps available for Sony TV owners. Google TV offers Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, Twitter, Pandora, and other popular services directly into the living room. Furthermore, users can search Google and use the Internet while watching TV, while TV content is shown in a separate box located at the corner of the screen.
The new TVs will launch in the United States this Sunday, with products available in-store and online.
The Google TV platform already has seen great support from partners interested in using the software platform in upcoming products. Sony is the first major HDTV maker to announce Google TV products, but others will likely have product announcements through the winter.
The Logitech Revue set-top box was also recently announced, but there is concern the pricey $299 device may strike out with consumers. Even so, other Google TV-powered set-top boxes should be announced before the end of the year.
