Telly addicts
Google is rolling out its first Google TV software update including news of a partnership with Netflix, an improved ‘dual view' function and app remote control for mobiles as well as some bug fixes.
Owners of Google TV in the US, (where it is currently only available) will receive an automatic ‘over-the-air' software update, according to its blog.
Google has buddied up with Netflix to upgrade its app so users can search, browse and watch any film or programme in the Netflix streaming catalogue.
"You can even add these titles to your DVD queue if you want them mailed to you. Not sure what to watch? The new Netflix app will also give you personalized recommendations based on what you've watched before. Your TV is now an unlimited source of entertainment," according to the blog.
Google has also added customisation options to its ‘dual view' feature so users can re-size and move a web window while watching TV. The split screen idea is designed to allow telly addicts to watch their favourite shows and browse the web simultaneously on their TV screen.
The search giant has also debuted a new Google TV Remote app in Android Market so users can interact with their sets in new ways. The app includes voice search for finding favourite shows as well as the ability to share videos and websites from a phone to the TV.
Google has also tweaked the way users can search for films and Google TV now has a movie results page that shows all the films associated with a title; handy for series of films like Harry Potter. It lists the options from a variety of sources such as the TV, Netflix plus Amazon VoD.
"You can also read a quick summary, see photos, and find the cast list. Click on the name of a cast member and we'll take you to a new search landing page where you can find other movies featuring that actor," according to the blog.
Google TV users in the US will see the updates roll out on their devices ‘throughout the week' and while the app is available immediately, it may not be any use until the TV has been updated.
