Google brings TV to PCs

Google is said to be launching a new internet service that lets Brits watch some of their favourite TV shows from the comfort of their PC.



The Web wonder has already declared the search for an IT professional who can �identify key market trends when watching TV�including the intersection of Internet and Television technologies.�



The posting, which now seems to have been taken down, called for a Production Manager to front the anticipated project - Google TV, billed as an extension of Google Video.



The �always on� facility will offer Web users the chance to watch any TV programme, at any time � provided the broadcaster has signed up to back the service.



Talks have reportedly begun with the BBC and US channel UPN, effectively giving Brits the opportunity to watch American shows before they reach UK screens.



Search engine analyst Danny Sullivan believes Google TV could potentially allow UK viewers to catch up on episodes they miss.



�Google want to become the world�s biggest video recorder and they are meeting all the major broadcasters to make it happen,� he said.



Users of Google TV are expected to log on to the Video site, which is being expanded, where they will choose from a selection of programmes stored on the California-based company�s servers.



The desired show will then be sent direct for instant broadcast on a monitor, enabling viewers to fast forward, pause and rewind the action from their personal computer.



This week Google said it expanded its Video service, and will test its new performance by screening a popular Chris Rock sitcom, titled Everybody Hates Chris.



Such a forerunner to Google TV makes mention of the partnership with UPN but the broadcast will be only be available for four days,



Moreover, the file to run the broadcast will come with anti-piracy feature that stops audiences saving the clip to their PC.



Speaking to The Sun, a Google spokesman confirmed Chris Rock would be testing demand for Google TV, adding that �the era of the couch potato is so over. We're rooting for the desk and laptop potato.�



Reflecting on the trial run, Susan Wojcicki, Google VP, said: �This is the first time Google users can watch an episode of a brand new television show on Google Video. We're pleased to be working with UPN on the Everybody Hates Chris premiere to provide users with this unique online viewing experience.�



Google�s foray into TV serves to compliment its bulging portfolio of recent products, including VoIP, Wi-Fi, Ride Finder and Web accelerator.



Yesterday Google announced plans to collaborate with space agency NASA on a number of technology-focused research-and-development projects, which the company said would combine �Earth's most powerful technology resources.�