Google is working on a videogame console and smart watch powered by Android software that has been a hit in smartphones and tablets, the Wall Street Journal reported.
The Journal cited unnamed sources as saying that the technology giant is out to expand its hardware line-up to include a new version of a Nexus Q digital media device introduced last year but never brought to market.
Google has openly shared a vision of its free Android operating software being used to put brains into a broad range of devices, including typically ‘dumb’ machines such as refrigerators or clothes dryers.
Efforts to develop a watch and a game console come as rumours spread of plans for a new-generation Apple TV box, as well as a smart watch, from Apple.
Microsoft and Sony have also set out to tighten their grips on modern-day home entertainment with new generation Xbox One and PlayStation 4 videogame consoles, which are to be released late this year.
Google did not return AFP requests for comment.