Google and Partners Developing Web-TV Project
Posted by Jesse Ward on Friday, March 19, 2010 · 
·
· 
According to published reports in Bloomberg News, the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, Google is partnering with Intel, Sony and Logitech to develop a Web TV platform called Google TV, including a new line of set-top boxes and televisions that will utilize the software platform.
Reportedly, the Google TV interface will allow users to perform Internet functions like search, enable downloadable Web applications, like games and social networks, and also compile Web programming
According to the media reports, Intel is supplying the computer chips for the venture. Logitech, which specializes in remote controls and computer speakers, is developing peripheral devices, including a remote with a tiny keyboard. For its part, Sony is reportedly developing the first line of appliances and TVs with the Google TV embedded software.
The partners intend to open the TV platform, which is based on the Google’s Android operating system for smartphones, to software developers. The software development kit (SDK) is said to be slated for publication in the next few months, and products based on the software could appear as soon as this summer.
Spokesmen for Google, Intel and Logitech declined to comment. A Sony spokesman said he was not familiar with the project.
A little sleuth work shows that the companies are indeed hiring for Android-related jobs. Intel, for example, has listed jobs for senior application engineers with Android programming experience who can help extend Intel’s technology “from PC screen to mobile screen and TV screen.” Logitech also has several job listings for Android developers, including a position for an “embedded software engineer” with experience building “audio and video products based on the Android platform.”
Related posts: