FACTBOX - Apple TV versus Google TV

Apple Inc (AAPL.O) unveiled its new Apple TV on Wednesday, setting it up to compete with Google Inc's (GOOG.O) soon-to-be released Google TV. Here's a look at how they compare:

Apple Inc (AAPL.O) unveiled its new Apple TV on Wednesday, setting it up to compete with Google Inc's (GOOG.O) soon-to-be released Google TV. Here's a look at how they compare:

Apple: Apple TV is a compact box that hooks into TVs and allows viewers to stream shows and movies that they have rented or downloaded from iTunes. It requires an Internet connection and can access YouTube, Flickr and other sites. It can stream music from iTunes and play shows or movies that have been downloaded on separate devices from iTunes. Apple TV can be controlled through iPods, iPhones and iPads after downloading an app.

Google: Google TV will allow viewers to search and watch programs from the Internet and their DVR recordings. Sony TVs and blu-ray players, as well as Logitech TVs, will come with Google TV installed. A separate stand-alone device is also available. The software has a Chrome Web browser built in so users can access whatever videos, photos, music and games are online. The Android Market will be on Google TV starting in 2011.

Availability:

Apple: Chief Executive Steve Jobs said Apple TV would be available in a month, and the devices can be pre-ordered now.

Google: Unknown date this fall.

Content:

Apple: TV shows will cost 99 cents to rent, movies will cost $4.99 to $2.99 to rent.

Google: All free online content can be accessed. DISH Network Corp (DISH.O) subscribers can also browse and watch their content with the device.

Partners:

Apple: Netflix Inc (NFLX.O), News Corp (NWSA.O), Walt Disney Co (DIS.N)

Google: Sony Corp (SNE.N)(6758.T), Logitech International SA (LOGN.VX), Intel Corp (INTC.O) and DISH Network Corp (DISH.O)

Track record:

Apple: This is the second incarnation of the Apple TV. Jobs has said the first version, released in 2006, has 'never been a huge hit.'

Google: This is the first Google TV of its kind for the company.