Logitech Revue with Google TV

Surf the Web and TV at the Same Time, and Watch it All on Your HDTV

Matt Schirano
The Logitech Revue with Google TV ($99.99) is a small box that connects to your HDTV via an ethernet or Wi-Fi connection that gives you access to the web and TV at the same time, and it does so in full 1080p, 60fps. You can enter an actors name and see what they're doing on TV, the web, or Twitter. It uses the Google TV system which is an open platform, meaning apps are being developed constantly and the usefulness of the device will only increase with time. It also has access to the Android Market. The Logitech Revue comes with a full QWERTY keyboard that has a trackpad and can control the TV and receiver. This makes it so you can surf the web and input searches without using the old phone-typing system.

Besides being able to access all of the apps which are available, there are a number of key features which are worth mentioning. The first is the Logitech TV Cam. It is an accessory which attaches to the top of your TV or can be placed below it, that works with the Logitech Vid HD app and makes HD video calling from your TV capable. It is basically the equivalent to using your TV to Skype friends and family. The Logitech Revue comes pre-loaded with Netflix, Pandora, CNBC, Logitech Media Player, Napster, and Twitter. The Revue automatically updates, so you don't have to worry about doing it manually. The box has an HDMI in and out, 2 IR blasters, 2 USB 2.0 slots, an ethernet port, and an S/PDIF out. You can use the IR blaster ports to take advantage of Logitech Unifying Technology, which lets you connect up to 6 Logitech Wireless Devices to the Revue. The device also comes with a 1-year limited hardware warranty.

In the Logitech Revue box is the companion box, the companion keyboard, an HDMI cable, 2 AA batteries, and the power supply. If you're looking for accessories you can buy the Logitech TV Cam discussed above, or the Logitech Mini Controller. This controller is a palm-sized keyboard/touch page/remote control. It is basically a smaller version of the keyboard that comes with the Revue, and it gives you the same searching capabilities while taking up less space. There is also a Logitech Harmony App for Android devices and the iPhone. It allows for the control of your TV, AV receiver, and cable/satellite top-box. If you want an ethernet connection but don't have an outlet immediately near where your Revue is plugged in, a Logitech HD Powerline Kit is available that turns an electrical outlet into an Internet connection.

Sources:
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/smartTV
http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/05/logitech-revue-running-google-tv-honeycomb-beta-caught-on-camera/
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION:
The Contributor has no connection to nor was paid by the brand or product described in this content.

Published by Matt Schirano

Matt Schirano is a freelance writer living in Glendale, Arizona. He has a Bachelor's in Journalism and a Masters in Library Science.  View profile

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