Google TV Arrives

As promised, Google has detailed its Google TV service and has thrown in a couple of surprises. Google explains the vision behind the new product:
“…what if we helped people experience the best of TV and the best of the web in one seamless experience? Imagine turning on the TV and getting all the channels and shows you normally watch and all of the websites you browse all day — including your favorite video, music and photo sites. We’re excited to announce that we’ve done just that.”

Unlike other Web TV platforms, Google TV won’t be limited to a few apps with negotiated partners, but will open up the entire Web from the comfort of your recliner via its Chrome browser. Like rumors had indicated, Google TV will be heavily reliant on search, allowing users to search for content on both the Web and television.

Google TV is an open platform and Google opened it up for developers today. The company envisions Google TV-specific apps and Google-TV-optimized websites enriching the experience of the service.

As rumors indicated, Google is working with hardware partners Sony and Logitech. Google TV will find its way into TVs, Blu-ray players and standalone boxes that will hit Best Buys this fall. As always, Google offers a video explaining further:

[via Google Blog]