Sweden company announces first HDTV running Google Android. Of course, it's in beta.

The good news out of noted TV manufacturing powerhouse Sweden is that a company—with the supremely cool name of People of Lava, no less—has launched the first HDTV that runs a version of Google Android, which looks ready to invade the living room while it competes in the mobile sphere. Unfortunately, "launched" is a relative term, as it will first be available this summer in a beta-test program with selected users. It will be then more widely available in September, though it's doubtful that it will ever reach these shores—at least without a gigantic import price.

The Scandinavia will be a LED-backlit LCD line available in 42-, 47- and 55-inch sizes. (The 42-inch model will be available first.) It runs Android Cupcake 1.5 and includes YouTube and Google Maps apps, along with a Web browser; you can download more apps like Facebook and Twitter from the People of Lava app store, though no word on the Android app store. It also comes with a wireless keyboard.

While it might use an open-source OS, the Scandinavia is not cheap. It will cost 2,000 euros (roughly $2,675) for the 42-inch set, in part because it's housed in an unspecified natural material that's as hard as stone and normally used in yachts and high-end kitchens. (Maybe lava stone?) Of course, the company's just getting the jump, since they'll no doubt be plenty more Android-powered HDTVs announced in the coming months. Unfortunately, it won't be as fun to answer "Samsung" or "Sony" as it would be to say "People of Lava" when someone asks you who made your new TV.