Google finally authenticated some of the apprehensions revolving around Google TV, saying that it blocked Hulu from the device.  Try accessing Hulu from Google TV’s web interface and you’ll get a pop-up message  saying, “Unfortunately Hulu is not supported on your platform. We apologize for any inconvenience.”

Hulu is blocking mobile and television access, unless you pay for Hulu Plus. The website began the blocking when they prevented Android phones that run Adobe Flash 10.1 from accessing their content, making this a bit of a long-standing battle.  But it’s also a missed opportunity for Hulu, no matter which way you slice it.  If they’re going to successfully compete with Netflix, they’ll need to find a consumer-friendly way (without a drawn-out red tape hassle) to continue the push of Hulu to as many platforms as possible.  It would be something to focus on, should Hulu be serious about an IPO soon.

On Google TV’s end, they’re going straight to other content providers, wherever possible.  A deal with Time Warner has set certain expectations around the type of premium and quality content you’ll be able to get through Google TV, but it won’t survive without a complete range of distribution deals.

Google TV hasn’t even launched to the public yet, but early troubles already make us think twice about its mantra; “TV, apps, search, and the entire web … together at last.”