Rumours claim web giant in discussions with select developers to create apps and games for living room device

Google set to launch Android TV

Google is set to launch a new Android TV set-top box as it attempts to take over the living room, according to a report.

The Verge claims to have received documents detailing the device’s capabilities, which suggest the system will be able to play TV, film, music and games.

Google is said to be in discussions with select developers to create apps and games for the Android TV. All are being encouraged to use a consistent interface in the form of a set of scrolling cards as part of the firm’s plans to offer easy discoverability.

It also plans to recommend content from individual apps from the home-screen as soon as users turn on their TVs, rather than having to open up each separate app for recommendations.

The service will contain the usual third-party apps such as Netflix, Vevo, Hulu and a section for games.

Despite the apparent upcoming launch of Android TV, it is thought Google will continue developing its popular Chromecast TV dongle, which can also be used to access similar services to the Android TV.

The web giant has declined to comment on the story.

News of Google’s renewed interest in the TV space comes as another web firm, Amazon, launched its new Fire TV microconsole.

As well as streaming TV shows and films, the set-top box also has a big focus on games. Amazon has released its own launch title in the form of third-person action game Sev Zero and has recruited well-known industry creatives such as Clint Hocking and Portal creator Kim Swift to its in-house studio.

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