The Android operating system isn’t just on mobile phones and tablets; it’s also on smart TVs. Since early 2021, TVs with Google TV have launched alongside Android TV. How do these systems differ, and what features and functions do they offer viewers? Let’s examine them in detail.
Android TV, available since 2014, is a tailored version of the Android mobile operating system designed for TVs and multimedia set-top boxes with internet access. Major brands like Sony, Xiaomi, Philips, and TCL, as well as smaller companies, integrate this smart system into their TVs.
Alongside Android TV and partially replacing it, the Google TV operating system has emerged. Today, leading brands are transitioning to it. What drives this shift in the usage of smart systems? First, let’s understand what Google TV is.
What is Google TV
Taking a brief detour, it’s worth noting how the Android OS operates on mobile devices. Google smartphones, many Nokia and Motorola models, and various phones from other manufacturers use the stock version of this system. Generally, the trend involves installing custom overlays on the Android platform, like Samsung’s One UI and Xiaomi’s MIUI.
At its core, Google TV is proprietary firmware layered over Android TV. The system boasts a revamped user interface but retains the familiar Android foundation. Essentially, it’s a reimagining of Android TV with a fresh appearance and added features.
Key differences between Google TV and Android TV
Android Tv vs Google TV: Google TV introduces a major innovation with its redesigned main screen concept. The interface now focuses on content recommendations from subscriptions, leveraging Google search algorithms to find movies, TV series, and shows. By customizing suggestions based on viewer preferences and previously watched programs, the system presents recommendations directly on the main screen, consolidating content from all installed apps and subscriptions. The feature of creating individual profiles for users adds to its convenience, eliminating the need to open each app separately for content searches.
Google Assistant on Google TV
Voice control is a prominent feature in Google TV. With voice commands via Google Assistant, users can effortlessly find TV programs, movies, or series and manage other platform functions. While this capability existed in the original Android TV, the updated interface of the new Google OS arranges the found materials neatly. Simply say the name of a movie using voice search on the home screen, and it will instantly appear from all available sources.
Sync Content on Different Devices with Google TV
Another valuable feature of Google TV is its capability to seamlessly switch between devices for content viewing. Users can start watching video content on their TV and then continue on their smartphone or tablet, providing flexibility in consumption and ensuring no missed moments.
An essential aspect of Google TV is its ability to add favorite movies and TV series to the Watchlist directly from a smartphone search. This content immediately appears on the TV interface’s home page for quick access. Additionally, favorite shows are accessible through the Google TV app (formerly known as Google Movies and TV), which now integrates streaming services alongside movie rentals and purchases, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The smart platform is set up not through the TV itself but via the Google Home mobile app. During setup, Google prompts users to choose streaming services to personalize recommendations on their home screen. Additionally, enhanced parental controls are available on Google TV, allowing users to create a dedicated channel for children with age-appropriate content. Different content consumption rules can also be set for each child.
Common features of Android TV and Google TV
Google TV shares the same foundation as Android TV, ensuring they have many similarities. For instance, both platforms utilize the Google Play Store for downloading applications. Users can install games directly on their TV through this store. Additionally, the built-in Chromecast feature allows instant streaming of video and audio from a paired smartphone, tablet, or computer to the TV.
Both smart systems include tools for managing devices within the smart home ecosystem, using the TV as a central hub. They also feature the Google Assistant voice assistant. If necessary applications are not available in the official store, users can often install APK files from a flash drive or external hard drive connected via a USB port.
Conclusion of Android TV vs Google TV
The Android TV operating system isn’t always presented in its original form. Thanks to its open architecture, developers can create their own applications and firmware installed over Android. For instance, popular Xiaomi TVs often incorporate the PatchWall add-on, which enhances platform capabilities and allows users to customize their TV experience.
Google TV, on the other hand, is a branded OS directly promoted by Google. It builds upon the foundation of the Android TV system, integrating closely with other Google services. It excels in analyzing personal preferences and offering new content from various sources directly on the home screen.
Choosing between Android Tv vs Google TV these operating systems depends on the user’s preferences and needs. Google TV is ideal for those who prioritize personalized content recommendations and seamless integration with Google services. Android TV offers greater flexibility for customization according to individual preferences.
Regardless of the choice, both platforms elevate the entertainment experience on TV screens to new heights. It’s important to note that existing TVs cannot be upgraded to Google TV; to experience its new user interface, users must purchase a TV that runs on Google TV from the outset.
