One would think with the internet and TV available to us 24/7, that technology already allows us to be pretty interactive, if that’s what you call it. Well, protocol for the world of technology is to continuously ‘improve,’ and leave it to Google to jump on the bandwagon. Google has now combined TV with the internet with hopes that the element of interaction will entice its audience. Again, the term interaction seems drastically misused, as using the TV and internet at the same time is merely pointless multi-tasking, eating up precious time we could spend doing something productive and worthwhile. Mind you, Google’s platform is that the new technology will make it easier to watch TV and use the internet on the same big screen. Seriously?! This just seems like an influx of artificial mind stimulation if you ask me.
The question is….If society craves interaction so much, why do we need to rely on a screen to provide it?
We sacrifice our well-being, levels of activity, and social interaction all for the newest technology. If by interacting you mean experiencing 3D graphics, sicker sound, or more options that suit your personal interests, then yes, you are interacting. But what about actual interaction with your personal interests? Don’t read about yoga or do it on your Wii, go to a yoga class! Participate in the world! The world is becoming too available, to the point where we have no reason to leave our living room. Google TV will only emphasize this ability and if anything, increase the couch potato epidemic that has swept America.
When considering the price tag ($300) and the reality of another way to avoid reality, the question of whether people will take to Google TV is in the air. This move has been done before, but according to Wilfred Martis at CNET, “The reason we feel confident this time around is it’s less of a leap now because consumers are used to consuming internet content.”
Key words: We are used to consuming the internet. In my opinion? PATHETIC.
As enticing as the Atom CE4100 processor is, which powers the interactive side of the Google TV platform, I personally see this as just another way to suck the life out of Americans. Although, CNET does state that “this is no ordinary atom!” I mean, the “CE4100 combines dual 1080p video decoders, dual audio DSPs (digital signal processors), 3D graphics, display processing and security infrastructure… which allows you to consume broadcast or Blu-ray content as well as all the content and applications on the internet.“ I know this sounds super exciting and anything but another way to waste time, but my opinion remains unchanged.
When I was a kid, I was never aloud to have video games, watch a lot of TV, and the internet not yet existed. I was kind of bitter at the time and coveted my friends Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen fashion designer video game, but looking back my parents had the right idea. Granted technology wasn’t nearly what it is today, but even so, promoting real interaction is way cooler than befriending the closest screen. I did have this F.A.O Schwartz game that plugged into the TV and allowed me to play games, do puzzles, and draw pictures and as lame as that is compared to children’s toys today, at the time it was very cutting edge. Regardless, it was just a toy. Today, technology is no longer a toy, it is an unavoidable lifestyle. Do we really need to take the two most time-consuming activities and make a brain-cell stealing conglomerate?
Google among other technology companies aims to better our society, but by bombarding us with more reasons not to leave the couch, our society is only hindered.
Speaking of couches, CNET titles their coverage of Google TV, “Will Google Elevate the Couch Potato?” I can’t stress enough- YES.YES.YES. As if Facebook and Farmville wasn't enough, Google TV is combining the two most time-consuming activities of Americans! Of course the couch potato will be in their glory, once again provided with something new that can be enjoyed on the convenience of their own couch. Thanks, Google! Obesity statistics continuously thank you.
Yes, when it comes to an influx of technology that to me seems pointless, I am a total cynic. But according to Amplicate, I am not alone. 58% of people also despise the idea of Google TV, leaving me somewhat hopeful for the future.
What do you guys think? Will you surf the net and watch Bravo at the same time?
Count me out.
Mallory.
I like turtles!
ReplyDeletewell now you can see them on tv and the internet at the same exact time!
ReplyDeleteWith every new generation of technological advances, there are those who doomsay about the loss of some mythical ideal past where people were more "real" and the world more genuine and untainted by technology. In reality, it simply changes- it doesn't become better or worse, but new. That said, this article comes off as pretty judgmental- I guess everyone who chooses to embrace a new technology is just a lazy couch potato? I'd beg to differ.
ReplyDeleteNo, not everyone is a couch potato. But tell me Mark, what has happened to people in the last few decades? Are we not fatter, lazier? We sit in front of computers all day because we can. We take advantage of the 'newness' and use it as an excuse to not participate in society because we don't have to. Because of the internet, socializing and entertainment is at our fingertips and actually interacting, or doing the work, is no longer necessary. Combining TV and the internet are in no ways embracing new tech. It is actually only combining what we already have which assumingly will be accepted because America has already proven itself as a land of couch potatoes. Deal with it.
ReplyDeleteI agree that this amounts to nothing more than giving people a more efficient way to waste time. Of course, most people will just be happy that they can now play Farmville in HD.
ReplyDelete