Google debuting Android TV platform in May

Sony and Samsung may already be on board for app-centric television platform

Google may be introducing Android-based television software to developers as early as May, according to multiple sources.

Over 3,000 developers are expected to attend Google's biggest development event of the year, its I/O conference in San Francisco on May 19-20. During over 80 sessions and over 100 demonstrations, Google plans on showcasing current and upcoming technologies related to its many offerings, including Android, Google Chrome, and Google APIs.

This year, the conference could be the place where Google unveils new technology intended to deliver a deeper Web experience to set-top boxes, TVs, and other devices. Google has been working closely with Intel and Sony on the television platform, which could end up being an app-centric device much in the same way that smartphones like the iPhone are dependent on apps; the attraction to devices like the iPhone and iPad are its countless apps that deliver infinitely new capabilities to the relatively simple device.

The argument is that if Google is presenting this platform for the very first time to developers, then the focus of such a platform would be applications designed by third-party developers.

Television makers like Sony and Samsung have already offered platforms with applications, but in embracing an Android-based technology, the companies would be opening up to outside developers. Alongside Google's announcement, Sony could be planning to unveil devices using the Google software and Intel chips at the conference as well, Bloomberg reported Wednesday.

Logitech, too, is said to be working on a keyboard/remote combo designed to work with the software.