Google TV will debut in Canada later this year. Will it be too late?

Though it was estimated that there would be Google TV products outside of the United States in 2011, not until last week did we hear an official word from a company that it would make televisions smarter in other countries. Actually, Sony announced two Google TV products that will make their way to Canada later this year. Now, all the company needs to do is find people to buy those products.

Sony announced their NSZ-GS7 Network Media Player and the NSZ-GP9 Blu-Ray Disc Player, both slated to launch in North America this summer (I confirmed with Sony reps that Canada will be included in the release). These products will connect to televisions through HDMI ports, allowing users to upgrade their TV intelligence without having to purchase an all-new screen. The NSZ products will enhance TV-viewing options by searching the web and listings to find interesting things to watch, as well as import Android apps geared towards large screens. It’s an interesting proposition that might change the way people view their televisions. Though to be honest, that’s a big “might” to expect.

After a year of middling sales in the U.S., a lack of apps for most of its existence, and pushback from television networks who have blocked their content from the platform, Google TV has struggled to take off. A few of the original problems have been addressed – the interface is now much easier to navigate and select Android apps are supported – but success in Canada isn’t a slam-dunk. Many of the people interested in Smart TVs have already purchased a device, or will do so before Google TV arrives, and others just don’t seem ready to mess with yet another remote for an already complicated experience.

We’ve seen major innovations in the “Smart TV” category. Some have voice commands that free viewers from the remote, and others are concepts that can change a channel just by thinking. There’s clearly a push towards smarter televisions, but they have to be better and easier, too. What does Google TV add that isn’t already covered by other products? YouTube? Sure it’s nice to have, but not everyone wants to see cat videos on their big screen. Netflix? That’s something to get excited about, but owners of a PS3, Xbox 360, Roku, or TV purchased recently may already have that.

And the persistent elephant in the room, Apple, may arrive later this year to further complicate matters. Apple is rumoured to deliver a new television later this year, and it might have apps, some form of voice search or commands, and access to the web. Considering the expensive price of the original Android products in comparison to the existing Apple TV platform, it might cost less, too. That’s not a good sign for Google TV’s chances.

Still, Google TV has a chance to be successful. Someone in the market for a new Blu-ray player might spend the extra money to get one that will stream Netflix and add a small number of apps. The saving grace for Google TV will be the way that it enhances entertainment options. Canadians regularly get short-changed on streaming services, and those seem to be the primary sources of value for Google TV. The last thing viewers want to see is another gadget shutting the door in their face.

Unless Sony and Google can sign on more content providers, encourage television networks to not block videos, and really encourage developers to create truly unique experiences, Google TV won’t be any more successful in Canada as it has been south of the border.