Not too long ago we got word that Google is working on a TV search project with Dish Network, and now there's all indication the search giant wants even more direct involvement with the television ecosystem. According to the New York Times, they're partnering with Intel and Sony in a new Android-based platform literally dubbed Google TV.

The new set-top box will allow users to surf online video from the comforts of the couch, and will compete with the likes of the Popbox and the Boxee Box we got our hands on at CES this year, the Roku set-top device, and to a few extent video game consoles that have the ability to stream content from Netflix, Amazon Video on Demand, and others. Beyond straight up video, the idea is to give users an interface to access popular social web sites like Twitter and browse photos on sharing sites like Google-owned Picasa on their TVs as well.

As with Android itself, Google TV will probable be an open source platform, with Sony stepping up to manufacture the first hardware that will run it - likely including both set-top boxes and internet-connected TVs. In the meantime, peripherals manufacturer Logitech is reportedly working on accessories for Google TV devices like a remote control with a small keyboard.

The project is reported to be a few months in already, though without official commentary from Google itself the news technically remains in rumor status.

Labels: Google, google features, google tv, google updates