Why Cable May Let the Google Fox Into the Henhouse

[Commentary] The most interesting Google news this past week wasn't hardware-related; it was the partnership Google struck with DISH Network, a sign that one of the biggest pay-TV providers just let the fox into the henhouse.

Cable operators like Comcast are a different story: They're notorious control freaks when it comes to consumer experience and content, and they're not hobbled like satellite operators are when it comes to interactive services and video on demand. Still, this hasn't stopped Google; news indicates the company is pursuing integration deals with cable companies. But will cable companies bite? A Google TV platform will be a tough sell, but I think after a decade-plus journey through the interactive TV desert with OCAP/Tru2Way, many cable operators are too tired and thirsty to resist what Google could offer in the form of applications and interactive services.