Google’s Nexus Player, which allows users to stream Android content to their TV’s, is unfortunately an average piece of kit, limited in a few ways and doesn’t seem to be getting upgraded very quickly. What will really give Android TV a serious shot in the market was the decision by Sony to put Android TV in its new line of Bravia TV sets. Whilst many manufacturers chose to pursue their own OS, or avoid to back another Google TV, Sony has stayed true.
It would seem they are hedging their bets slightly though as the Bravia range will also feature a much smaller contender in the market, YouView. Their CEO Richard Halton has spoken of his delight for the on demand and streaming service being integrated into hardware for the first time, a view shared by John Anderson of Sony UK:
“We’re delighted to be the first manufacturer in the UK to announce the addition of YouView to our range of TVs.We believe that our new Bravia range now has an unparalleled combination of Sony’s fantastic picture quality, fantastic design and the widest choice of content ever complete with Sony High Resolution Audio.” – John Anderson, Sony UK
YouView + Android = Entertainment
Although this move will be for UK versions of the TVs only, it will sit alongside Android TV and Sony’s One-Flick Entertainment software. YouView alone has more that 12,000 Films and TV shows on demand, along with catch up services from BBC, ITV and Channel 4.
Once you combine this with Sony’s extensive library and Android’s barrage of content apps you may never need a TV subscription ever again. With the Nexus player unavailable in the UK, and no other Android TV devices announced yet, the Sony Bravia range may be in high demand once hit the shelves.
The fact Sony are signing deals to feature other content providers alongside Android TV content does however indicate a slight lack of confidence. Any manufacturer should be wary of the OS falling behind as Google TV did. Although many still use the ailing platform, it sold very poorly outside of Android circles and had very little backing. Lets hope Google has all its ducks manufactures in a row this time.
Last Updated on November 27, 2018.
Comments are closed.