Samsung Considers Google TV

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A Samsung executive who wants to remain anonymous recently told the Korea Herald that the company is “considering Google TVs.” A few weeks ago, Samsung initially declined to work on the project, claiming they wanted to develop their own range of Internet-connected TVs.

After Sony openly expressed their interest in the Google TV, Samsung has switched its original statement and is now also “looking into the feasibility” of an Android-based TV.

Samsung’s original Internet-based TV, Samsung Apps, was revealed at this year’s CES and had a similar concept to Google TV. The interface showed a range of applications where the viewer can browse and access them. However, it looks like now the company might want a slice of the Google TV buzz that has all the tech-enthusiasts talking.

The Google TV products would be based on the Intel Atom processor and will allow developers to build applications that will run directly on the set top boxes. You can expect to surf the web on the Google TV using the Chrome browser and access applications like the calendar, weather, to-do list, maps and games.

In-Stat predicts that by 2013, TV-based applications could be generating more than $1.7 billion in revenue annually. Digital media software developers like Boxee, Vudu and Roku are already looking to enable paid apps that can be downloaded via their connected TV devices. It is expected that TV apps will be the next big thing to hit households and will be a profitable revenue stream for companies and CE manufacturers.

Unlike Panasonic, the high cost associated in developing the Google TV hasn’t deterred Samsung to explore the platform. Panasonic decided not pursue the project as EVP Bob Perry pointed out that the Android would require too much processing power to make it a viable and affordable product for consumers.

Google is rumored to be unveiling Google TV software this summer and Sony plans to release a model by the end of 2010. The race is now on to see who develops the first Google TV and what it might incorporate.