14 DAY TRIAL // Google TV is one of the few web TV services that managed to make itself well known, and in a relatively short time, even though it mostly rode Google's brand strength to do it. ASUS is now making the latest move in this field.
As a television broadcast service that uses the Internet, it can reach viewers through Google Play and Chrome OS, with YouTube access included in the mix.
Mostly though, it is transmitted through devices specially created for it, as Google is quite specific in who it makes contracts with.
ASUS is one of the companies that has a set-top box with Google TV, though it won't be found on the market anymore, not under its original name.
While it started out with the name of Qube, it has now been renamed to Cube, as shown by US retailer Newegg.
Priced at $139.99 / 107-139.99 Euro, it will start shipping on April 24, or thereabouts. The date fits previous leaks about pricing and availability.
The device has a Marvell 88DE3100 SoC (system-on-chip) and access to 50 GB of ASUS Web Storage (online CLOUD).
An HDMI input connector is available, as is an HDMI output and an IR Blaster Out port, plus a pair of USB 2.0 connectors, a Base-T Ethernet port and built-in Gyro sensor and G-sensor, microphone.
ASUS also tossed in wireless networking (Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n) and YouTube DIAL, Google Chrome, support for Netflix, HBO Go and more.
Everything is managed through the Google TV platform, but via the Cube user interface made by ASUS itself.
ASUS Cube measures 4.92 x 4.92 x 4.92 inches / 125 x 125 x 125 mm and weighs 520 grams / 1.14 kilograms. No word on when countries beside the US will get it. Go here to make a pre-order or watch the video below for more details.
