Logitech Revue arrives as first Google TV device

by Steven Mostyn - Oct 7 2010, 06:41

The very first Google TV device has arrived this week in the form of the Logitech Revue, which has been designed to provide users with the perfect way to meld television and the Internet through a single set-top box.

However, while media consumers may well be attracted to the Revue’s seamless delivery of multi-format entertainment, the accompanying $300 USD price tag may leave many cold. So what does the Logitech Revue offer in return for that apparently steep monetary outlay?

First of all, prospective users must be in possession of an HDMI-ready television and a broadband Internet connection. Once equipped, they can simply plug-and-play the compact Revue box, flop down on the couch with the included Logitech Keyboard Controller, and channel media from terrestrial and online sources along with owned devices such as PCs and mobile devices.

Developed in conjunction with Google, the Revue also features a customised version of Google’s market-leading search technology, which enables users to seek out and record all the content they desire from cable providers through to specialist web portals.

“Logitech Revue with Google TV makes it easy for people to use just one controller to find and enjoy content from a variety of sources – programs from TV providers; the entire Web, including Flash-based games; music, photos and videos from their personal library; and a growing number of apps,” trumpeted Ashish Arora, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s digital home products group.

“Logitech not only delivers the Google TV experience for any HDMI-ready TV, but we build on it with exceptional interface devices, control of living room components through Logitech Harmony Link and enhanced experiences such as video calling in the living room,” he added.

Likely to be the first of many Google TV platforms that takes advantage of Google content partnerships with the likes of HBO, TNT, CNN, Turner Broadcasting, Cartoon Network, Amazon and Netflix, the Logitech Revue is set to begin shipping at the end of October.

It’s formal unveiling arrives a week after Apple Inc. launched Apple TV, a rival set-top device that connects to iTunes and allows users to download and watch movies and TV shows directly through their televisions. The Apple TV device costs $100 USD.

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