Google has announced a list of content partners for its much-anticipated new entertainment offering. Among them are HBO, CNBC and the National Basketball Association. Notably missing are big TV networks -- or any mention of price.
With Apple and Google joining Amazon and Netflix in aiming to channel entertainment to your TV, where does that leave the cable guys and broadband providers? They're all girding to fight it out. The biggest winner: consumers.
As Apple prepares for a press conference in San Francisco on Wednesday, speculation about the coming news is running rampant. Will the company announce a refreshed iPod or a new Apple TV device with Netflix programming?
Google plans to launch a combined service of online and TV program listings and shows as soon as this fall. But TV networks are leery of partnering with the search giant. They worry a deal may help Google encroach on their turf.
Nothing spurs innovation like competition, especially rivalry between two of the most innovative companies in the world. But the widening conflict between Google and Apple isn't just hugely entertaining.



