When Google TV first came out I thought it was an interesting concept. However, the one thing that I didn't like was the size of the remote. The idea of having a remote the size of a regular keyboard was not very appealing. Sony introduced a new generation of the Google TV at CES 2012. There are three versions, the one that is embedded within a TV, a Blu-Ray player with an integrated Google TV, and a stand-alone Google TV. Both the Blu-Ray player and the stand-alone player have a smaller form factor than before. They all run Android 3.2 with Android Market well-integrated and is full HD capable.
The thing that caught my eye the most was the remote control. It now looks like a real remote control instead of a large keyboard. The front of the remote is set up like a traditional remote with a touchpad on it. On the back is a keyboard when you need it. The keyboard works only when it is facing up. So there is no chance of typing while you are trying to hit play or record. This is a great improvement on the first generation of Google TV. I can't wait to get a hold of one later this year.
Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.