Android to become new Sky+?

 

Gallery

By Hani Megerisi

Posted on 9 Mar 2010 at 10:49

Google's Android OS could be used to power the next generation of television set-top boxes, according to reports.

The search giant is testing software that allows users to search satellite TV and video streaming sites through their television set. The service will also let users create personalised schedules on their set-top box, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The service is being designed in collaboration with Dish Networks, the second largest satellite TV provider in the US. It is hoped that Google will create a user-friendly interface to search through the vast array of satellite shows available.

The service is currently being tested by Google employees in the US, according to the report, although a spokesman from the firm refused to comment on the software.

Services such as LocateTV and Clicker already allow you to search channels and create customised schedules online, and the latter has deals with several US set-top box manufacturers that deploy its search functions through the box itself.