Update: We have updated several points in this article, as well as the structure, to make it easier for you to read. We have dedicated a section to Chromecast with Android TV as a perfect device to turn a normal television into a powerful Smart TV.
Smart TVs can enjoy Android apps and features thanks to the adaptation of the operating system for smart TVs, but what about old TVs that can’t run it?
thinking of them, Google created a new Android device that can work autonomously and with which it is possible to access all that entertainment in a simple way by connecting it to any type of screen. This is how the Android TV Box or Smart TV.
When we talk about Android TV, there are usually many doubts since the name can be misleading. Both the Smart TV platform built into Android-based televisions and Android-based external multimedia devices use the same name. They are all Android TV. The key is found in the surname that perfectly defines its use: Box.
Literally, the Android TV Box or Smart TV Box are devices with Android TV in a box so that you can connect it to any screen with HDMI and “unpack” its functions, while, if it is only Android TV, the system will be installed on the television and will directly manage the entire entertainment platform without you needing to connect any additional device.
Next, we will tell you what is Android TV, what is it for, how to get this operating system for tv and why the android tv box They are quite a revolution.
Android TV vs Smart TV
Contents hide
1 What is AndroidTV?
2 What do I need to have Android TV
3 The power of Google on television
4 Kodi, that great ally to consume content
5 Games and apps on Android TV
6 Chromecast with Android TV
What is AndroidTV?
First things first: before launching into explaining the strengths and weaknesses of Android TVwe are going to describe what is android tv exactly.
As its name suggests, it is a television service based on the same Android that is installed on smartphones, but with some adaptations to make its use more comfortable on certain devices that do not have a touch screen, such as the case of a monitor or television.
When connect an Android TV Box to a monitor or TV that does not have Smart TV functionsthe Android TV Box or Smart TV box acts as a bridge so that you can access these connected functions, allowing you to install apps from the Google application store to watch Netflix or YouTube series when connecting your television to the Internet.
However, Android TV is much more than just a couple of streaming video consumer apps. It is a complete operating system optimized for televisions that allows us to install applications on the device as if it were a mobile.
Habitually, Android TV is based on the latest version of Android available at that time and it has a specific interface to be used from a remote control or from a keyboard and mouse.
In addition, the processing of each and every one of the data is done directly in the SoC (system on chip) included in the motherboard of the television or in the Android TV Box. In a few words, it is as if you attached the motherboard of a mobile to a television, to understand us in a few words.
before seeing What are the advantages of Android TV? and why televisions are smarter thanks to Android TVwe must see what options we have and what we need to achieve a good experience with this system.
What do I need to have Android TV
now that we know what is android tv and why it can give you so much joy to lovers of on-demand content, it’s time to see how can you have android tv on your tv. If you have tried to find how to install Android TV on your Smart TV, we regret to tell you that you cannot do it if it is not factory installed on your television.
However, that does not mean that you cannot use Android on your TV: you still have different options if you want have android tv on tv. The most basic and simple is connect a Chromecast to your TV.
Chromecast is a cheap solution to have Android TV since the latest model that the big G has launched comes with the integrated operating system and makes it easier for your television to have it.
You also have to choose one of these three options:
- android tv player: The Nexus Player was an attempt by Google to compete against Apple and its Apple TV device, and was the first Android TV Box capable of bringing Android TV to non-Smart TVs. With a device of this style, like the Nokia Streaming Box, for example, you will be able to turn any TV into a Smart TV with Android TV.
- Nvidia ShieldTV: Another option to have Android TV is to opt for the Nvidia player that, in addition to Android TV, allows us to play certain games in streaming (as long as we pay the subscription, of course). On Amazon, Nvidia Shield TV is available.
- Amazon Fire TV Stick: although with Amazon’s own customization layer, we can say that this device offers us the same thing, but all from the point of view of the largest online store in the world. Android is also what you will see in the image, even if it doesn’t seem like it, being able to perform the same tasks that you would do in any of the other examples.
- Television with Android TV: There are different manufacturers that have opted for Android TV to manage their Smart TV platform, such as Sharp, Philips or Sony, which opt for televisions with the Android TV operating system. It is the most comfortable way to enjoy Android TV, since it is directly implemented on the television and you do not have to buy a separate device or use another HDMI (which is so popular in the living room among consoles, PCs, and other devices).
In addition to this, you need to have an Ethernet cable connected to your television, although you can also connect it via WiFi.
For this reason, it is more than recommended to have a broadband connection and a good location for television, guaranteeing that the signal arrives correctly so that streaming video content does not suffer cuts or drops in resolution, which are very annoying when you consume content. on sizable Full HD and 4K displays.
The power of Google on television
When we have Android TV on a television, it becomes a device with a number of options and applications that make it so extremely versatile that it will even be difficult to get the most out of it.
Google TV is, after all, as if we had Android, but on a television, which gives you an idea of how far you can go with this operating system and the number of options that are presented before your eyes, not just platforms streaming, but in many more areas.
It is clear that having Google TV on a television, either through an external device or because it is installed from the factory, is an incredible revolution compared to a normal television and a good step forward with respect to other competitors with other operating systems.
Kodi, that great ally to consume content
The history of Kodi is still curious since it was born as an operating system to manage the multimedia content of the xbox consoles from Microsoft.
In fact, its previous name was XBMC (Xbox Media Center) and it was adapted to be used as a multimedia center in living room computers (Home Theater Personal Computer). Later changed its name to Kodia free and open source software project that any user can use.
Currently, Kodi is one of the best media center type applications. It reads all kinds of formats, allows you to create a private network and, what’s more, we can expand it practically as we want thanks to add-ons.
The best thing is that you don’t have to do anything weird to install kodi on android tv; since it is an application that is in the Google Store. And yes, where we say Kodi, we can also say Plex to mount a local server at home.
Games and apps on Android TV
Android TV or Smart TV Box it also offers us something quite juicy: the possibility of installing games and applications on your Android TV or Android TV Box.
Android is becoming more and more powerful as a gaming platform and there is a huge variety of games that you can install on your television with Android TV or on your Android TV Box. Did you imagine that you could turn your TV into a complete game console? Well Android TV has made it possible!
Playing on Android is increasingly important, companies take this section very seriously and we are seeing more and more quality games on mobile phones.
This opens two possibilities for play video games on your tv: Either you install the game on your mobile by running it from it and sending the image to the television, or directly install compatible games on your Android TVand that you can play without having to have your mobile nearby.
Also, you can connect different types of game controllers to the TV or mobile, similar to what we have on consoles to enjoy games on TV without… well, without the console. It’s not that they’re games to spend hundreds of hours on, as happens in other systems, but to get rid of the itch and have fun for a while, they’re perfect.
Also, being Android, we can install other types of applications that are not in the Android TV Google Store. The only thing we need for this is to have the application’s apk installation file, a file explorer and activate unknown sources on the TV. Exactly the same as you would do on your mobile
The problem is that, if it is not a native Android TV application, the interface will not be adapted and you will need to connect a keyboard or a mouse to be able to navigate. Once this problem has been solved, we can use it without any problem, as long as the app is compatible with the television’s hardware. Something that happens exactly the same as on mobile phones.
Now, Do you know what Android TV is? and what you can do with this type of system, it is up to you to assess whether it is worth investing in a television or a device to turn your TV into an Android TV… or continue using Chromecast.
Chromecast with Android TV
When it comes to transforming any television into a Smart TV, the fastest way to achieve it has been to have a Chromecast and a released model is the most effective solution: Google Chromecast 2020.
With a new design, this device that has a new layer of Android TV customization It integrates the best functions to be able to enjoy all the content you want on practically any television.
It is a Chromecast that is available at Various colors and that it can be chosen in two configurations where they differ by resolution, since one of them is 4K and the other HD.
Thanks to having the operating system for Google televisions you will be able to manage the applications of your favorite streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+in addition to being able to install other types of applications such as podcasts, radio or whatever you want.
This does not mean that the ability to send content from the phone has been lost, not in the least, even with this Chromecast you can control smart home devices, not only what has to do with Android TV.
FAQs
Android TV vs Smart TV: differences and options to have a smart TV? ›
As mentioned earlier, Android TV is essentially a smart TV, though it has more choices in some auxiliary functions and application libraries. Smart TV providing a user-friendly and straightforward interface usually performs better and runs faster than Android TV because there are fewer applications to launch.
Which is better smart TV or Android smart TV? ›As mentioned earlier, Android TV is essentially a smart TV, though it has more choices in some auxiliary functions and application libraries. Smart TV providing a user-friendly and straightforward interface usually performs better and runs faster than Android TV because there are fewer applications to launch.
What is the advantage of Android TV to smart TV? ›The advantage of the built-in Google assistant makes Android TV so outstanding in the function that users of Android TV can switch channels and search programs easily through voice control without any input device.
What are the disadvantages of Android TV? ›Cons: Additional cost if you need to buy a dedicated device. Security may not be at its best. Not all apps are available in the store so you may need to sideload them.
What is the best option for smart TV? ›- Mi 32 inches 5A Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV.
- Redmi 32 inches Android 11 Series HD Ready Smart LED TV.
- OnePlus 43 inches Y Series Full HD Smart Android LED TV.
- Samsung 43 Inches Wondertainment Series Full HD LED Smart TV.
- Samsung 55 inches Crystal 4K Series Ultra HD Smart LED TV.
While Tizen has a minor advantage in technical architecture, Android performs better in areas like gaming, app support etc. And in terms of UI, they perform equally well. So, Choose Android – If you prefer gaming, a vibrant app store and intuitive voice assistance.
What are the disadvantages of using a smart TV? ›- Smart TV Security and Privacy Risks Are Real. ...
- Other Streaming Devices Are Superior. ...
- Smart TVs Have Inefficient Interfaces. ...
- Smart TV Performance Is Often Unreliable.
- Need internet connection.
- Sometimes slow devices.
- Wasteful battery.
- It requires to continue internet connection.
- Generally, power hungry.
- Very unstable.
- Android market is too much less control of the manager, sometimes there are malware.
- Externally in-consistence in design among apps.
Simply put, Android TV is designed to bring the sorts of things you enjoy on your phone to your TV. That doesn't mean you'll be taking calls through your TV or trawling through emails, but it's about ease of navigation, access to entertainment and simple interactivity.
Which brand is best for Android TV? ›- MI 80 cm (32 inches) 5A Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV L32M7-5AIN (Black) ...
- TCL 80.04 cm (32 inches) Bezel-Less S Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV 32S5400A (Black) ...
- Hisense 80 cm (32 inches) Android 11 Series HD Ready Smart Certified Android LED TV 32A4G (Black)
How long will Android TV last? ›
The average lifespan of an LED at maximum or close-to-maximum brightness is 40,000 to 60,000 hours, or roughly 4.5 to 6.8 years.
Does Android TV slow down over time? ›Over time, this cache can become full and cause your TV to run slowly. To clear your TV's cache, you'll need to go into your TV's settings and find the “Clear Cache” option. Once you've seen this option, select it and confirm that you want to clear your TV's cache.
Should you buy Android TV? ›If you' are a dedicated Android user or use a lot of Google tech, an Android TV might be a better option. All smart TVs come with internet connection. This allows you to use apps, streaming services, connect to voice assistants, play games online, and much more.
What is the number 1 smart TV operating system? ›WebOS remains the most comprehensive and responsive smart platform around thanks to its extensive selection of streaming services that includes Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and the TV supports voice controls via both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Which is the No 1 smart TV? ›Best smart TV for the money
For the last five years the TCL 6-Series has been our favorite TV for the money, and the 2022 version -- also known as the R655 series -- is no exception.
The LG C2 OLED TV is this year's set to beat. Not only is it the best OLED TV thanks to an impressive display panel, but its premium design, great gaming features and smart TV platform hit all the high marks, too. The Samsung QN95B Neo QLED TV is the premium QLED set to get.
Is LG or Samsung the better TV? ›Samsung TVs generally have better picture quality than the average LG LED-backlit LCD TV. Samsung TVs usually get a fair bit brighter and have better contrast, while LG TVs generally have much wider viewing angles and better smart features.
Can I use Android TV without internet? ›Yes, your smart TV will work fine without an internet connection. You will be able to watch TV channels with a cable box or antenna, connect Blu-ray/DVD players, hook up speakers, etc – just like a regular TV. You will not, however, be able to use any of the video streaming apps that come with it.
Is Netflix free on a smart TV? ›The app will be free to download and install on your connected TV but you will need a subscription. You do get a 30-day free trial though, if you've never used Netflix before. Once you have the application downloaded and installed, you can log into it with your account details and off you go.
Is Roku TV better than a smart TV? ›Roku TV offers a simple remote control, minimal interface, and quick processing system. Smart TVs have a range of features, especially for audio and sound, that Roku TVs do not yet offer. Roku TVs offer superior voice commands compared to most other smart TVs and work with Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Why Android is more preferable? ›
You Want More Freedom, Control, and Customizations
Since Android is an open-source platform, it offers more freedom and customization options than iOS. You can customize almost anything on your Android device, from how your home screen looks to how you interact with your phone.
Some of the pros of Android include their diversity both in software and hardware, the Google-friendly attribute and their handy open nature. Android phones also have some cons such as their vulnerability to malware and lack of accessories.
What is the main advantage of Android? ›But unlike other company's approach, Android allows its users the choice to install applications from the third-party app store. You can download apps direct from a developer's site, install them from a flash memory card, or from a third-party app store.
What's better Roku or Android TV? ›For those who are mainly looking to watch their favorite TV shows and movies, the Roku is a great option as it offers access to more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes. However, if you are looking for more features, like voice commands and gaming capabilities, then Android TV is the way to go.
Do I need a TV box if I have a smart TV? ›A smart TV is a TV that can connect to the internet without the need for a set-top box or streaming device. While both of those devices provide a whole host of new content, most smart TVs will have the same content available in their built-in app store.
Can Android TV connect to WIFI? ›Your Android TV™ has a built-in wireless adapter that enables it to use Wi-Fi® technology to connect to your network. If, however, you prefer a wired connection, a network cable (not supplied) is needed.
What is the number 1 Android TV in the world? ›Best overall
Considering overall features, the Sony Bravia(164cm) is the best choice among all Android TVs. It has a 4k UHD screen display and resolution of 3840x2160. It offers full value for money.
Sony vs LG
LG is the dominant OLED brand for OLEDs because they have better gaming performance and generally cost less. However, Sony's LED models are far better than LG's because they get brighter, have better uniformity, and usually have better contrast.
As our technical engineers mentioned, TV brands with the highest longevity are Samsung, Sony, LG, and Panasonic. However, you can find other affordable brands that could give you several years of use if well maintained. These brands include Sharp and Vizio.
How often should you replace your TV? ›Common wisdom says that the average television can last between 4 and 7 years, depending on usage, potential damage, and other factors. So, if you've had your television for more than 5 years and feel that your home is due an upgrade, then it's perfectly reasonable to start researching the best brands and features.
Which is more latest smart TV or Android TV? ›
Also, in terms of upgrading applications and media streaming resources, Android TV is far more advanced than a smart TV. That is because developers constantly send new updates to all the different Android apps.
What shortens the life of a TV? ›Keep Dust Away and Clean Regularly
Wood stoves and open fires are not an ideal place to set up your television as factors such as heat, ash and dust can shorten the lifespan of your television. We would suggest wiping your television regularly with a clean microfibre cloth and mild dish soap or TV screen cleaner.
Troubleshooting. Place the router close to your TV, then check if the signal strength has improved. It is recommended that the TV and router be at least 1 meter (3 feet) apart. If other devices are downloading large-sized files, such as videos, the network speed may slow down.
Why is my Android TV so laggy? ›Check for app updates
Important: Your TV might be slower while app updates are in progress. On your TV, search for Google Play Store . When Google Play opens, at the top right, go to the profile picture or initial. Update all.
For starters, Google TV is the more modern, updated version of the Android-powered platform, providing more features, better compatibility with Google services, and generally a better user experience across the board.
What is the most used smart TV in USA? ›In 2020, Samsung remained the most popular smart TV brand among U.S. households, with a steady share of 28 percent. Alcatel/TCL and Vizio rounded out the top of the list, with 13 and 12 percent market share, respectively.
What is the 1 3 most popular operating system? ›The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Is Roku an operating system? ›We designed the Roku operating system (OS) specifically for streaming TV and with one goal in mind—getting you to the entertainment you love quickly and conveniently. Everything about the Roku OS is designed with ease in mind.
Which is best smart TV in budget? ›| Best Budget Smart TVs | Price* |
|---|---|
| Mi LED 41 PRO 32-inch HD Ready Android TV | Rs. 16,499 |
| LG 43 inch Full HD LED TV 43LK5360PTA | Rs. 30,990 |
| Telefunken 55 inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV | Rs. 28,799 |
| Sony Bravia 32 inch HD Ready LED Smart TV | Rs. 26,990 |
- Mi 43 inches 5A Series Full HD Smart Android LED TV. ...
- Kodak 43 inches Bezel-Less Design Series 4K Ultra HD Smart Android LED TV. ...
- iFFALCON 43 Inches Smart LED TV. ...
- AmazonBasics 43 inch Full HD Smart LED Fire TV (2023 Model) ...
- TCL 43 inches 4K Ultra HD Certified Android Smart LED TV.
What is the easiest TV to operate for seniors? ›
#1 LG C9 OLED TV for Seniors
This easiest TV for seniors is well-rounded, starting with 10-bit color support for exceptional color range and Alpha 9 Gen 2 processor to optimize noise reduction and upscaling of non-HD content to near 4K.
Overall, Vizio TVs are well-priced and have great picture quality. However, they don't have the high-end feel of some other brands, and their OS is laggy at times and not as full-featured as the competitors, as there are often a ton of bugs associated with their TVs that can even get worse over time.
Is TCL as good as Samsung? ›In almost every respect, the TCL 6-Series is a better pick for most people than the Samsung Q80B. It offers a better, brighter picture, an easier-to-use smart platform, and it's significantly cheaper than the Q80B, too.
Which brand smart Android TV is best? ›- MI 80 cm (32 inches) 5A Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV L32M7-5AIN (Black) ...
- TCL 80.04 cm (32 inches) Bezel-Less S Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV 32S5400A (Black) ...
- Hisense 80 cm (32 inches) Android 11 Series HD Ready Smart Certified Android LED TV 32A4G (Black)
The main differences between Android TV and Roku are user interfaces, app selection, hardware, and miscellaneous features. App selection varies by the device; Android TV has access to the Google Play Store, while Roku only supports its channel selection.
How long does Android TV last? ›From a component standpoint, this TV features a lot of parts, but generally, the LEDs in its backlight are probably going to fail first. The average lifespan of an LED at maximum or close-to-maximum brightness is 40,000 to 60,000 hours, or roughly 4.5 to 6.8 years.
What is the most reliable Android TV? ›| Television | Size | Approx Amazon Price |
|---|---|---|
| OnePlus 43 inches Y Series Full HD LED Smart Android TV | 43 Inches | Rs 26,999 |
| Kodak 32 inches HD Ready Certified Android LED TV | 32 Inches | Rs 9,999 |
| Sony Bravia 55 inches 4K Ultra HD Smart LED Google TV | 50 Inches | Rs 60,999 |
Android TV 12 was released on November 30, 2021, with rollouts planned for late 2022. Android TV 13 was released on December 2, 2022 for developers using the ADT-3 development kit.
Should I buy a Roku or Android TV? ›Roku TV can still compare well with modern smart TV platforms like Android. The platform has even more channels and a smoother interface. However, Roku TV is slowly becoming outdated as they need to update its content. If you need a modern streaming or gaming platform, Android TV is a better option.
Which is better Android or Roku? ›Roku is the best for more content and hardware availability, while Android TV is ahead in terms of voice support and user interface. So which platform you decide to use is a matter of personal preference.
Which is better Roku or smart? ›
Roku TV offers a simple remote control, minimal interface, and quick processing system. Smart TVs have a range of features, especially for audio and sound, that Roku TVs do not yet offer. Roku TVs offer superior voice commands compared to most other smart TVs and work with Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
What is the most reliable TV to buy? ›- Best Hisense TV. Hisense U8H. SEE PRICE. Amazon.com. ...
- Best LG TV. LG G2 OLED. SEE PRICE. Amazon.com. ...
- Best Samsung TV. Samsung S95B OLED. SEE PRICE. Amazon.com. ...
- Best Sony TV. Sony A95K OLED. SEE PRICE. ...
- Best TCL TV. TCL 6 Series/R655 2022 QLED. SEE PRICE. ...
- Best Vizio TV. Vizio OLED 2020. SEE PRICE.
Netflix collects cache in the background to remember your search history and other data to speed up your app experience. Corrupt or old cache can lead to Netflix not working on Android TV. Step 1: Open the Netflix app info menu (check the solution 4 above for detailed instructions). Step 2: Select Clear cache.
Why can't I download Netflix on my Android TV? ›Devices that are on older versions of Android or aren't Play Protect certified can't get the Netflix app from the Play Store. You may be able to get a simplified version of the Netflix app on this page if you can't get it from the Play Store.
Why my Android TV cannot play Netflix? ›You need to refresh the data to get the Netflix app working again. But how do you refresh the data? Open the Android Settings app, navigate to Settings > Apps > Apps, scroll down, and tap the Netflix entry. Within the Netflix sub-menu, go to Storage, then tap Clear data and Clear cache.