Sony Unveils Google TV-Powered HDTV

NEW YORK: Sony has formally unveiled a new line of high-definition television sets that feature built-in Google TV, allowing users to watch HDTV, access apps and browse the web.

Sony Internet TV is the first TV set to be powered by Google TV, the search engine giant’s recently unveiled operating system for Internet-connected TV sets. It features dual view, enabling a user to watch a show and go online at the same time. "Sony Internet TV is the world’s first HDTV that combines the big-screen impact of television and full Internet search to deliver an unrivaled entertainment experience," said Mike Abary, senior VP of Sony’s Home Division. "Finally, you can seamlessly search your favorite TV programs and web sites on the same screen, at the same time."

"We are very proud to be the pioneers of this new entertainment category by delivering the world’s first true Internet TV experience," added Bob Ishida, senior VP, corporate executive and president of the Home Entertainment Business Group at Sony Corporation. "Sony Internet TV creates value by introducing new and compelling ways to enjoy a variety of content."

Other features include Sony’s premium streaming service "Video On Demand powered by Qriocity" as well as pre-installed apps from, among others, CNBC, Napster, NBA, Netflix, Pandora, Twitter and YouTube. Sony Internet TV also connects to select HD DVR devices from Dish Network to include previously recorded content in the search results and control DVR functionality from the set’s user interface. 

The units will retail from $600 to $1,400, depending on the size (24 inch, 32 inch, 40 inch and 46 inch). Also available is a Sony Internet TV Blu-ray Disc player with Google TV built-in, which retails for $400. The products will be available for purchase October 16 on SonyStyle.com, and at retailer Best Buy shortly thereafter.