Google releases new version of TV platform

Google has unveiled a new version of its Google TV service as well as announcing a plan to create 100 original video channels on the YouTube website.

The move to launch an improved version of the Google TV platform comes after limited success for Google in its initial foray into TV. The platform, which was criticised for lack of ease of use and the limited availability of equipment, has also failed to win over content providers who declined to allow Google to make their programmes available on the platform. Version 2.0 of Google TV provides features including improved recommendation, an easier way for Android software developers to create apps for the platform, and integration with the Android market.

“Connected experiences are a pillar of Sony’s value to TV consumers and Sony internet television powered by Google TV certainly brings ‘smart’ connectivity to the highest level,” said Steve Haber, executive vice-president, Sony Electronics, one of the two device manufacturers of Google TV products. “We very much look forward to the possibilities the Android market will create for customers to personalise their experience. Users will enjoy the new features that this update brings to their interactive engagement with home entertainment programming, either through Sony Internet TVs or Bu-ray disc players.”

YouTube will develop content for its channels via partnerships with third-party media organisations. Categories will include sports, comedy and news, with the first channel set to launch in November.

Separately, AOL in the US has made its AOL HD app available for download on the Samsung Smart TV and Google TV platforms. AOL launched its HD app on Roku, Boxee, DivX TV and Yahoo! Connected TV devices earlier this year.

AOL HD features high-definition video content, updated daily, from AOL Huffington Post Media Group, including technology news from Engadget, TechCrunch and Translogic, entertainment news from Moviefone and Huffington Post Celebrity and lifestyle content from partners including Eric Stromer, Sam Talbot and Carter Oosterhouse.