Google ‘in talks over online TV service’

Google has reportedly approached media companies about licensing content for an internet TV service, in a bid to offer a cable TV-style service over the web.

According to an Wall Street Journal report, Google has made “made overtures to some programmers in recent months” about the initiative, and is looking to license linear channels – most likely in the standard programming bundles taken by cable and satellite operators.

The search giant is reportedly looking to go up against other new entrants in the space like Intel – which is preparing a subscription set-top service that is expected to deliver live TV, catch-up and additional content over the web and roll out later this year.

Sony is also said to be looking at entering this space, offering content to Sony devices like PlayStation games consoles, TV sets and Blu-ray players.