Google and Sony are to launch their TV service in Australia, offering internet users free-to-air content on the Android platform.
The initiative is part of a collaboration between Google, Intel, and Sony Australia under the banner: "Sony Internet TV Powered by Google". Pricing details and a launch date have not yet been released for the Australian release.
The TV will integrate free-to-air content with internet content, enabling the same online capabilities as a computer. High-powered Intel chips will power the system, which will run on Google's Android platform.
The device will feature integrated search functions, automatic upgrades and a wireless keyboard remote. A stand-alone model and set-top box style models incorporating Blu-ray will also be available.
Sony first announced the partnership in May. The service is due to be launched in the US in the next three months.
The move will rival Apple TV, which was first launched in March 2007, and has so failed to make the market impact the company initially hoped for.
Apple chief executive Steve Jobs announced this week that a new version of Apple TV will be released that will allow users to rent television shows and films, as well as stream videos from a computer, iPad and other Apple devices.
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