Lots of cool stuff going on on the Google TV front this weekend with the release of the Sony Internet TV powered by Google TV.  The sneaky part is that Sony also released a new Blu-Ray player powered by Google TV technology.  Logitech is due to launch its Revue player with Google TV that will add Google TV functionality to your existing equipment, but now we have the option of purchasing a Blu-Ray player from Sony that does exactly the same thing.  If you’re not excited, you must be a bloodless monster of the night because this is the coolest use of Android technology to date.  The new Sony TV and Blu-Ray players are available at Best Buy right now.

My only disappointment so far is that 46″ is the largest TV Sony has released and if you’re like me and a bit of an Home Cinema buff, you’d probably want bigger.  There have already been rumors that Samsung will soon be releasing their own version of Google TV, and they have so far been my TV of choice.

The Sony Internet TV with Google:

What’s Included

• Sony Google TV 46″ Class / 1080p / 60Hz / LED-LCD HDTV
• QWERTY keyboard
• Owner’s manual

Product Features

• Internet Connectable
  Via Google TV for access to Internet content. Search for channels, shows or Web sites at the touch of a button. Picture-in-picture mode allows you to surf the Web while watching TV.
• Android platform
  With Intel® processing for amazing graphics and high-definition video and audio. Choose from thousands of downloadable Android apps to add new content and capabilities to your HDTV.
• Link to compatible mobile phones or DVRs
  For access to additional content. Use voice navigation and share Web content between your mobile phone and HDTV.
• Built-in Ethernet port and Wi-Fi
  Lets you connect your TV to your home network. Wi-Fi allows for easy navigation of features and content.
• Ultraslim design
  Ideal for wall mounting (with optional mounting kit, not included). 100mm x 100mm VESA compatible.
• 178° horizontal and vertical viewing angles
  Help ensure every seat in the room is good.
• 1080p display
  Provides the highest quality progressive-scan picture possible from a high-definition source.
• Two 10W speakers
  With a Dolby Digital decoder for a lush soundscape.
• Inputs
  Include 1 composite video (rear), 1 component video (rear), 4 HDMI (2 side, 2 rear) and 1 Ethernet (rear).
• Outputs
  Include 1 optical digital audio (rear) and 1 headphone.
• 4 HDMI inputs
  HDMI cable not included. High-speed HDMI cable is the only connection that can deliver a full HDTV experience with a full 1080p picture and digital surround sound.
• 4 USB 2.0 ports
  For quick connection of a digital camera or other USB device.
• Easy-to-use QWERTY keypad
  Allows for easy navigation of features and content.
• 46″ screen measured diagonally from corner to corner
  For optimal viewing in large rooms. LightSensor technology, power-saving modes and dynamic backlight control for energy efficiency.
• Intel, Pentium, Celeron, Centrino, Core, Viiv, Intel Inside and the Intel Inside logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.

Sony 46″ Class LED-LCD HDTV with Google TV is available right now for $1399.99 from Best Buy.  The Sony Internet TV is available in other smaller sizes.

The Sony Blu-Ray player with Google:

What’s Included

• Internet Connectable / Wi-Fi Built-In Blu-ray Disc Player
• Remote with 2 AA batteries
• AC power adapter, AC power cord, IR blaster, HDMI cable
• Owner’s manual

Product Features

• Built-in Google TV
  Features an Android operating system for smooth connection to the Internet (cable or satellite service required, not included).
• Internet connectable
  For access to Instant Content, including Google TV.
• Android app market
  Download Android apps to add new content and capabilities (additional fees may apply).
• Intel® processing
  For enhanced processing power and enhanced audio and graphics.
• Built-in Wi-Fi
  For access to streaming content and firmware updates.
• DVR compatibility
  Connect to select HD DVR devices from the Dish Network to include your previously recorded content in search results.
• Playable formats
  Include BD-ROM discs, H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, MP3, JPEG, GIF and PNG for a variety of media choices.
• Built-in audio decoders
  Include Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital, DTS and AAC.
• 1 HDMI input, 1 HDMI output
  High-speed HDMI cable is the only connection that can deliver a Blu-ray experience with a full 1080p picture and digital surround sound.
• Built-in 8GB memory
  Lets you store content until you’re ready to watch.
• 4 USB 2.0 ports
  For a high-speed connection.
• Picture-in-picture
  Lets you enjoy Web sites and television channels simultaneously.
• Handheld keypad with mouse
  For simple Internet navigation.
• For additional information please see the Specifications Tab.
• Upconvert DVDs
  Delivers greatly enhanced video performance of standard DVDs by upconverting their video resolution to HDTV-compliant 1080p via the HDMI interface.

Sony Internet Connectable Blu-ray Player with Google TV available now for the price of $399.

The interesting thing about the Blu-Ray player is that the “Features” section mentions the Handheld Keypad with Mouse but the “What’s Included” section does not list the keypad.  I’m assuming that it has one otherwise it would be pretty useless.

Best Buy created this quick and easy video guide to “What is Google TV“.  Check out the video below:

So who went to get one of their own today?  If you did, be sure to let us all know how it looks!

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About the Author

Simon Walker

I was an IT consultant for 20 years and ran my own web design and development company for an additional 3 years. I have been involved with technology from birth. OK, that maybe an exaggeration, but it sure is a long time. I'm also an avid Home Theater geek and self appointed installer for friends and relatives. My first serious modding of Smart-Phones started with my T-Mobile WING and now Android devices. I'm also a bit of a photographer, although Android has kind of taken over my life and photography has taken a back seat.

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