Intel CEO: Google TV coming this month, Apple TV "really simplistic"

The Wall Street Journal interviewed Intel CEO Paul Otellini about the chip giant's forays into devices that aren't primarily computers, and he had a couple of things to say about Google TV.

Like Logitech and Sony, Intel is an initial partner with the search giant on Google TV, but unlike Logitech and Sony, it's apparently willing to pinpoint when the first products using the technology will be available: this month. That's more specific than the fall 2010 target that Google has been floating, and neither Sony nor Logitech has made a similar announcement.

But wait, there's more. Otellini, surprise, surprise, doesn't think much of the new Apple TV, which he refers to as "a step backward" and something his mom might use because it's "really simplistic." In contrast, Google TV is "the full Internet, integrated seamlessly with live content" that's more suitable for his plugged-in son:

He wants to be able to do his Facebook chat and talk to his friends saying, "Hey, are you watching the game?" in real time. You cannot do that on Apple TV.

Which view is right? While Google TV is betting on people wanting to use an HDTV as the focus of interactivity, Apple is assuming that you'll want to chat online or check scores with a device on your lap -- preferably, an iPhone or an iPad. Of course, that's not to say an updated version of Apple TV couldn't run a Twitter app or an NFL widget, and Google TV will require some sort of input device on your lap to communicate with the Google TV hardware. So will a "step backward" or a step forward win in the living room?

Considering the new Apple TV is shipping in three to four weeks, we won't have long to wait for some side-by-side comparisons. Which product are you anticipating more?