Here comes Android TV from Google

(Credit: Google)Android emblem

Google, Inc. will soon launch Android TV, an upgrade from Google TV expected to be a media platform for TV and not a means to bring the Android OS powering tablets and smartphones to TV.

Google is said to have described Android TV as Android optimized for the living room consumption experience on a TV screen. Android TV is a fresh platform for Google unlike Google TV and is wholly different from Chromecast, Google's digital media player that plays audio/video content on a high-definition television by directly streaming it via Wi-Fi from the Internet or a local network.

Technology website The Verge revealed that Android TV is an "entertainment interface, not a computing platform." Android TV is about finding and enjoying content with the least amount of friction. It will be cinematic, fun, fluid, and fast. The platform will support voice input and notifications.

Media reports indicated that the device will come with a unique feature called the recommendation system that will suggest sorted entertainment. Music, films, games, television shows and photos will be available.

Android TV will do away with some apps such as touch screen support. The downsizing is meant to narrow the focus and contributes to Android TV's simpler form.

Google is working on its own media offerings for Android TV. It is also said to be working with major third party Developers such as Hulu, Netflix, Vevo and Pandora to develop content. There is also talk of game integration.

Cynics, however, say Android TV doesn't sound much more compelling than its competition since it offers the same content from the same providers. The difference is that Android TV is likely to be open source, unlike its competition.

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