Some devices come with Android TV built-in, including TVs from manufacturers such as Philips and TCL. There are also TV boxes and dongles, such as Chromecast, that run the system and extend functionality to older TVs with outdated software.
Find out more about what Android TV is, its main features, and its advantages and disadvantages.
What is Android TV?
Android TV is an operating system developed by Google, designed for smart TVs and streaming devices. The Android-based platform guarantees access to apps, games and streaming services available on the Google Play Store, offering a personalized experience with a user-friendly interface.
Which devices have Android TV?
Android TV can be found in the following device categories:
- Smart TVs: some brands, such as TCL and Philips, use Android TV as the operating system on their smart TVs, offering direct access to apps and streaming services without the need for external devices;
- Android TV Box: an external device, known as an Android TV Box, is a dedicated digital media player that runs Google's system, turning any TV with an HDMI input into an entertainment hub;
- Streaming devices: Compact external gadgets such as Chromecast with Google TV and other TV sticks plug into your TV's HDMI port, adding Android TV features. An option for older TVs or TVs with outdated software;
- Projectors: Some modern projectors come with Android TV built-in, allowing direct access to streaming apps and other functions, without the need to connect an external source (computer or media player).
Can I tell if my smart TV is running Android?
To find out if your smart TV is running Android, you should look at a few elements on the home screen. Not all smart TVs run Android, but those that do use Google's platform usually display a clock and gear icon in the top right corner of the screen.
In addition, you can check the specifications in the device manual or on its box to confirm whether it is an Android TV. The manufacturer's official website also informs you what operating system is embedded in the model.
Can I install Android on my TV?
Yes, you can use devices such as Chromecast or Android TV Box to turn your smart TV into an Android. However, it is important that the TV has an HDMI input or that the TV box offers RCA outputs.
Furthermore, it is advisable to buy a device that is approved by the government. Illegal devices do not receive updates and are vulnerable to cyber attacks, in addition to affecting telecommunications networks.
What is an Android TV Box?
An Android TV Box is a device that turns a regular television into a smart TV by adopting the Android operating system for TV. This device functions as a multimedia center, with access to the Google Play Store, streaming applications, games and other digital content formats.
Basically, an Android TV Box can add modern smart TV functions to an old or non-smart TV. In addition to accessing applications, many models also allow you to play media files directly from external storage devices, such as USB sticks.
Can I use Android TV on a PC?
You can use Android TV on your PC, but this procedure is not done natively. In general, it is necessary to use an emulator or virtual machine that allows you to run the Android system directly on your computer.
This solution creates a virtual environment on your PC where Android TV can be installed and run. In this way, users can access and use the applications and features of the TV operating system interface on the PC screen.
What is the history of Android TV?
The history of Android TV began with Google TV, launched in 2010. Google’s first platform for smart TVs was built on the Android mobile operating system and the Chrome browser, aiming to offer a web browsing experience on television.
Google TV was initially launched on Sony smart TVs, but was also adopted by brands such as LG in its first few years on the market. The OS has received improvements over time, such as the addition of support for voice commands assisted by Google Assistant.
In 2014, the Android TV system was announced as the successor to Google TV. Focusing on apps and content discovery, the new version introduced a personalized recommendation system for users and began to be adopted by more manufacturers.
The Android TV interface was relaunched as Google TV in 2020. This update prioritized the display of recommended content on the home screen, making it easier to directly access movies and series on streaming services.
What are the main features of Android TV?
Key features of smart TVs like the Android TV system include:
- Google Play Store: The Play Store lets you download apps and games optimized for the big screen directly to your TV, including major streaming services;
- Built-in Google Assistant: function that lets you control your TV, search for content, get answers and manage smart home devices using voice commands;
- User profiles and personalized content: option to create individual profiles for each family member, receiving personalized content recommendations based on each person’s history;
- Chromecast built-in: function to cast photos, videos and music from devices, such as mobile phones, tablets and computers, directly to your TV in a quick and easy way;
- High-quality video and audio: Support for modern picture and sound formats such as 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos for an immersive experience. Availability may vary depending on your TV model or Android TV device.
What are the advantages of Android TV?
Android TV offers several advantages over other smart TV operating systems and streaming devices. Among them are:
- Intuitive interface: Android TV’s interface is optimized for large screens, making it easier to use and navigate menus and apps;
- App catalogue: Play Store has an extensive library of apps, from popular streaming services and games to productivity features;
- Smart home integration: Android TV can be controlled by Google Assistant using voice commands and integrated into the smart home ecosystem;
- Diversity of models and prices: the system is available in different TV brands, Android TV box models and price ranges, to suit different budgets;
- Continuous updates: Android TV receives regular updates from Google that bring new features, performance improvements and security patches.
What are the disadvantages of Android TV?
Android TV has several disadvantages compared to other smart TV systems. Some of them are:
- Limited interface customization: Android offers little flexibility for users to customize the home screen and menu settings, limiting how information and applications are displayed;
- Performance variations: The performance of the OS can vary depending on the hardware and software optimizations made by each TV brand. This can result in slow and stuttering navigation on more basic or older models;
- Possibility of application crashes: Application compatibility and stability can vary. Occasionally, some applications may experience bugs, crashes or not work properly on certain Android TV devices;
- Display of ads: Some versions of the operating system display advertising banners in the main interface, which visually clutter the screen and interfere with the user experience when navigating the menus.
Who are Android TV's competitors?
Android TV competes with several other platforms in the operating system market for smart TVs and streaming devices. Its main competitors are:
- Tizen: Samsung's TV operating system, based on Linux. Tizen stands out for its user-friendly interface, consistent experience and AI capabilities;
- webOS: the platform used in LG TVs, also based on Linux. The operation of webOS is known for its intuitive interface and efficient performance, facilitating navigation and access to content;
- Roku TV: The operating system present on Roku TVs and streaming devices. Its strengths are its simple interface, offering extensive customization and access to a wide range of channels, including some free options;
- tvOS: developed by Apple for its Apple TV streaming device. tvOS is closely integrated with Apple services such as Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade, and supports Siri for voice commands;
- FireOS: Amazon's operating system for Fire TV devices. Based on Android, FireOS has an interface that facilitates quick access to streaming services, such as Prime Video.
Are there Samsung TVs with Android?
There are no Samsung TV models that use Android, as the brand's televisions use their own operating system called Tizen. However, it is possible to install Android on a Samsung TV using an Android TV box or streaming device, such as Chromecast.
What is the difference between Android TV and Google TV?
Android TV is Google's operating system designed for smart TVs and streaming devices. It offers an app- and content-centric experience, allowing access to the Play Store.
Currently, Google TV is the name of the interface built on top of Android TV. It stands out for integrating streaming services and offering more personalized and powerful content recommendations.
It is worth mentioning that Google TV was the name of Google's first operating system for smart TVs, launched in 2010. The original OS had an interface similar to a web page, but was replaced by Android TV in 2014.
What is the difference between a smart TV and Android TV?
A smart TV is a television that has internet connectivity and its own operating system, which allows the installation and use of applications. Essentially, it turns the TV into a multimedia platform that goes beyond conventional channel broadcasting, offering access to streaming services, a browser, and other online functions.
Android TV is an operating system developed by Google, designed for use on smart TVs and streaming devices. The platform stands out for its integration with the Google ecosystem, including direct access to the Google Play Store to download apps and compatibility with features like Google Assistant and integrated Chromecast.
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