LG announces new Google TV powered 3D TV set

LG Electronics has announced a new 3D connected television set running the Google TV software, enabling users to access the open internet on their TV screen.

The Korean firm announced its Google TV launch ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next week.

Google TV brings Google's Android operating system to LG's Smart TV, offering customers "a new and attractive home entertainment option".

The Google TV user interface has been tailored for easy browsing of the web and available content, including movies, TV shows and music.

Multi-tasking is available on the service, such as running social networking sites including Facebook and Twitter while still watching the TV.

LG said that the Google TV set will use Cinema 3D based on passive glasses technology, and come with the new LG 'Magic' remote control, which features a Qwerty keyboard for using the web-based services.

"LG has constantly strived to provide consumers with wider choices in home entertainment that bring the highest level of sophistication and convenience," said Havis Kwon, president and chief executive of LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company.

"Through Google TV, LG has merged Google's established Android operating system with LG's proven 3D and Smart TV technologies, offering consumers a new and enthralling TV experience."

Google launched its Google TV software in the US in October 2010, but the service has failed to ignite customers interest in the same way as its Android mobile operating system.

However, Google hopes that by partnering with leading TV brands it can reach a broader range of customers, while also expanding the product outside of the US. Google TV is expected to launch in the UK in the first quarter of this year.

LG plans to demonstrate its new Google TV device at a press conference in Las Vegas on Monday. The product will become available in the US this year, before hitting the UK next year.

Samsung is also expected to announce a Google TV product at CES 2012, after recently confirming talks with the US search giant.

Alongside the Google TV announcement, LG has also said that it plans to introduce its own Smart TV platform, based on NetCast, to more than 60% of its flat panel TVs scheduled for launch over the coming year.

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