It’s been tried before, with scant success;  Apple TV, Boxee, and to some extent Windows Media Centre have all taken a shot at the home entertainment center.  In the last couple of weeks there has been recent developments that will forever change your expereince on the couch.

Google TV:
Announced at the Google I/O, this will roll out as a software which can be installed directly into TVs. Sony, Logitech and Intel are already signed up.

1.  Search is key – Allowing users to browse everything from broadcast TV schedules, to YouTube to website streams will bring computer functionality to the TV.

2.  Comfortable Viewing – Youtube’s “Lean back”  service will greatly enhance the passive Youtube viewing experience.  A recommendation engine will intelligently lignup and auto play Youtube videos in full screen so the viewers hands can staff off the remote and in the popcorn.

3.  The Web App – Google has released standards and best practices for web developers to adhere to when designing for the TV.  The sites will most likely have video content and an interface that is really remote friendly.

Apple TV V.2:
Rumored to be a new version of the Apple TV based on the iPhone 4.0 Hardware.  *Based on Rumors*

1. $100 –  This price point greatly reduces the barrier to entry.  It’s comparable to buy 4 new release blu-rays.

2. Itunes integration –  Anyone with an iPod already has a vast organized music collection on their computer.  The appleTV will allow better integration into this.

3.  App Store –  Any large media outlet has an app in the Apple App store.  They will have one formated for the iPhone, the iPad and now perhaps Apple TV.  Users are used to the download process.

4.  The iPad/iPhone – The iPhone is in millions of pockets and the iPad is now on millions of coffee tables.  These are the perfect remotes for an Apple TV.