Google is nothing if not persistent. Recently, the company announced at its I/O developer conference another attempt to find its way to your HDTV screen with Android TV. It’s software that will likely be used in set-top boxes to compete with Apple TV, Roku and other streaming Internet devices.
But for the moment, it doesn’t look like Google itself will be selling a box called “Android TV.” Instead, new TVs from Sharp, Sony, Phillips and others will include Android TV as software and companies such as Razer and Asus will make devices using it.
In 2010, Google launched Google TV, an ill-fated venture with TV makers and hardware companies such as Logitech that fizzled. Last year, it rolled out Chromecast, a stick that plugs into TVs and streams Internet content. That project has been more successful, likely due to its bargain $35 price tag.
It was a busy week for Google. The company also announced Android Auto, software for cars; a new version of its Android mobile software; as well as new features for Google Glass, Google Drive and other products.
Email Omar Gallaga at ogallaga@statesman.com.
About the Author
