Google, Sony launch 'smart' TV

SAN FRANCISCO - Google Inc. believes it has come up with the technology to unite Web surfing with channel surfing on televisions. To reach the long-elusive goal of turning TV sets into Internet gateways, Google partnered with Sony Corp., Intel Corp. and Logitech International to unveil Thursday their plan for a "smart" TV on Thursday, and Intel CEO Paul Otellini predicted the effort will be "the biggest improvement to television since color." The TVs are expected to go on sale this fall in U.S. Best Buy stores, with prices to be announced later in the year. Sales will expand to other countries next year.