Not long ago Google launched it’s Google T.V. project without much fan fare. For those “in the know” it is a very very cool idea. The internet on your T.V. with Google search to pull up listings and videos via the web of what every it is you want to watch.
Unfortunately Google T.V. quickly started to fall victim to many problems. With large networks pulling support, sites like Hulu blocking web access from Google T.V., and the fact that it can only integrate fully with a handful of set-top boxes, poor reviews started to roll in. Now comes news that Google is pulling Google T.V. from CES in January. The Consumer’s Electronics Show was supposed to be a huge forum for Google and T.V. manufacturers like Sony, Toshiba, LG, and Sharp to show off. Google has contacted these Manufacturers and asked them to hold off on their introductions so they can refine the software.
Poor reviews have also plagued Google T.V. Thirty-eight percent of shoppers on Amazon.com gave the Logitech Revue box three stars or fewer, and 19 percent gave it the lowest rating of one star. People have complained that Google T.V. is slow and does not offer features that other less expense set-top boxes offer. J. DiBella from Palm Coast, Fla. wrote “The concept of Google TV is very neat and I’m excited to see where it goes, but the only place my Logitech Revue is going is back to Best Buy.”
As an Android fanboy I am personally pulling for Google T.V. but I have the same issue with it as I do with so many Android manufacturers today. There is a push to be first, or to be the big Christmas, summer, or back to school device. Unfortunately in this race to be the best, manufacturers are missing many things that are ultimately hurting their bottom line and reputation with consumers. I think if Google had taken a little more time to iron out contracts with networks, sent out review units, or had a few more focus groups Google T.V. could have been the biggest thing in 2011. Much the way they are working their Chrome OS Netbook operating system. Many computer manufacturers were really wanting to get their hands on Chrome OS to be able to release an onslaught of netbooks for the holiday season. Instead, Google has sent out over 6,000 test units to people in every corner of the U.S. from every walk of life to get real consumer feedback. Many companies could save themselves a lot of headaches, back peddling, and bad press with a little patience. If you have Google T.V. we would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Any other points of view are also welcome.
Source: New York Times