We had already seen a glimpse of Sony's new TV dongle with Google TV and Bravia TV apps. Sony has now officially launched it as the Smart Stick.
Sony's Smart Stick with Google TV
The small device is called Smart Stick and connects to your TV via HDMI. It also needs an USB connection for power. When connected you can access online services such as Netflix, Pandora, Amazon Instant Video, YouTube, and Sony’s Video Unlimited movie rental platform. It can access the Google TV Play Store and also utilize Sony’s own Bravia TV apps that exist on Sony’s Smart TVs.
Sony Smart Stick
Sony has made no mentions of “Chromecast” / DIAL functionality, which is a letdown. Sony suggests that the Smart Stick will work only on its own 2013 TVs - and newer. The Smart Stick can integrate your existing cable or satellite TV channels, and can be controlled using voice commands. The microphone is integrated in the remote control.
Sony Smart Stick
Sony’s Smart Stick brings up some interesting questions. With Google TV and Bravia TV apps in a small, relatively inexpensive TV dongle that can be replaced each year, will Sony continue to integrate Smart TV features into its TVs? Sony is currently supporting three different app platforms; Google TV, Sony Entertainment Network (in its Smart TVs), and the PlayStation. Which one will Sony ultimately pursue?
Sony's Smart Stick (NSZ-GU1) is available in the U.S. now for $149.99. No words on an international launch date.
Sony's Smart Stick is small Google TV dongle
