Logitech is officially launching the Revue set-top box that comes with Google TV for $299 (you can pre-order right now). If anything has the potential to take over your TV and bring your videos from the web, then it’s Google TV. It’s simply the best software and interface that is on the market for this kind of thing.
It’s clear that Google TV has the best set-top box software out there, but let’s see what the Logitech Revue box is all about.
How you control it
There are several ways you can control Google TV. Two of the ways to control it are by using a full keyboard with directional pad and touchpad, or a full QWERTY micro-controller, that should give you more mobility.
A third option is through a free remote app for Android and iPhone, which can give you a way to control Google TV by touching the app’s virtual buttons, or by using Voice to give it commands, and search for whatever you like on the web or on your TV.
Video Calling
Video calling is going to be a lot more popular than it is today, and it’s coming not only to your smartphone, but also to your TV, which is a pretty novel idea, and even if it has been done before, now it’s the time it will take off.
Imagine watching your parents on TV as you talk to them and them watching you the same way, making it feel like you’re standing next to each other in real life. Video calling on TV will revolutionize communication.
Logitech can help you live this kind experience with their 720p HD camera with Carl Zeiss lens, dual mics and autofocus:
Content
Google TV is coming with Netflix, Amazon Video, HBO GO, TBS, NBA, Cartoon Network, Pandora, Twitter, Napster, Blip.tv, Youtube, and they are currently negotiating with Hulu to bring that to the platform as well.
And this is just the beginning. Access to the Android Market will come soon, and then you should get access to a lot more apps that are made specifically for TV, perhaps even console like games. The Revue box together with Google TV software could become your own console.
You are also getting some Logitech specific apps in Google TV:
- Vid HD for video calls
- Logitech Media to browse photos, music, and video from a computer networked to the device
- Logitech Alert Camera Viewer to see your security cameras on TV
Revue ports
- Logitech unifying technology to connect up to 6 Logitech accessories
- HDMI in and out ports
- Two IR blasters
- Two USB inputs
- Ethernet cord
- SPDIF to connect digital optical cable.
How much will all cost
- Revue box itself is $299
- full keyboard is $99
- micro-controller costs $129
- HD camera costs $149
- remote apps for Android and iPhone are free
[Sources: Gizmodo, Androinica, Slashgear]