Is a Google TV Product Worth Buying?

Licensing issues, along with heated competition between Internet content and the cable companies seem to be the stumbling block, for what would be a complete "do all" television entertainment box. We have at our disposal, a myriad of supplemental web streaming devices that always seem to have a feature missing.

The Google TV platform came extremely close with regard to combining traditional cable offerings and Internet content, together. As expected, the major network giants, along with certain web content companies started to refuse access to Google's platform.

Being able to conveniently browse Netflix, Hulu, access local media files and view cable TV without turning on or switching to a different box, sounds extremely appealing to most people. Some are fortunate enough to own a home theater PC that can handle these tasks, using Windows Media Center or similar. Many cable subscribers will need to install an expensive CableCard adapter in order to view cable programing. For those without the technical expertise or money to shell out for a HTPC, an inexpensive alternative sounds extremely appealing.

Google TV is an awesome concept that has the potential to change the way we watch TV and entertain ourselves. However, without some of the popular networks on board, the Google TV platform will not draw enough of a customer base.

One could hope that the cable companies will be more open to customers watching online content on televisions. Including Netflix or Hulu to paltry "OnDemand" offerings could actually help the cable companies in the end. Eliminating the need for separate set-top boxes, Comcast and others could revamp their aging onscreen guides, while adding web content services customers enjoy.

The battle between traditional cable and Internet media has begun. More and more people are relying on the Internet for video, news and entertainment- The cable companies should adopt the "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em attitude.