LG Can’t Wait for CES, Spills Beans on New Google TVs
The 2013 International CES is still a couple of weeks away, but LG is getting things started early with the announcement of two new Google TV models: The LG GA7900 and GA6400.
The GA7900 is the higher end of the two and will come in 47- and 55-inch versions. Both were designed with a minimized bezel to give the impression of a borderless display. Meanwhile, the GA6400 will be offered in 42-, 47-, 50-, 55- and 60-inch models.
LG says the revamped Smart Home screen provides easier access to on-demand video content, such as HBO Go, YouTube and other apps, which can be organized in folders. A new My Interest Card also displays real-time information, such as weather and personalized news.
All the TVs will ship with LG’s redesigned Magic Remote, which has an integrated microphone so users can search for content using Google TV’s voice search capabilities. You can also perform searches with the built-in physical keyboard.
Android users will have the extra advantage of being able to send video clips from their smartphone or tablet to the TV via Wi-Fi. The GA7900 and GA6400 also support OnLive’s cloud-based gaming platform.
The tale of Google TV hasn’t been a particularly happy one, and a report from earlier this year revealed that usage is pretty low. Still, TV manufacturers like LG, Sony and Vizio are continuing to build Google TV devices. Sony and Vizio both offer set-top boxes, while LG went the integrated TV route with its G2 Series, which was released earlier this summer.
Pricing and availability dates for the LG GA7900 and GA6400 were not announced at this time; I’m guessing we’ll learn more at CES. LG’s press conference is currently scheduled for Monday, Jan. 7 at 8 am PT. AllThingsD will be there, so be sure to check back then for all the latest news.