Google Tv: what is?

In 2020, Google launched its own entertainment TV platform with the introduction of Google TV, a streaming service aggregator that competes with the Android TV launcher.

With this innovation, Google combines several elements, including Chromecast (the first TV device with the new Google Chromecast), Android TV (the operating system on which the interface runs), and, since 2021, a smartphone app that replaced Google Play Movies.

What is Google TV?

Google TV is an entertainment platform that aggregates content from various streaming services, making it easier to find and access what you want to watch.

It is available as an operating system for smart TVs, set-top boxes, and other streaming devices, as well as a smartphone app.

The platform uses personalized recommendations based on your viewing history, preferences, and search history. It also has a watchlist feature that allows you to save movies and TV shows from different services in one place.

Its user-friendly interface allows you to navigate content across different services, search for specific titles, and see recommendations based on your interests. You can also access live TV channels and subscribe to premium services directly from the platform.

Google TV is compatible with various streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and more. It also supports the Google Assistant, which allows you to control your TV and other smart home devices using voice commands.

Google's Vision

Google’s idea is to unify the home streaming experience under a single product, although this may confuse some users.

The project launched in 2020 with the first Chromecast with Google TV and later expanded in 2021 with the mobile app. The goal is to bring together different systems: Chromecast (which evolved from a simple casting device into a true streaming hub), Android TV, and smartphones, all aiming to create a central hub for multi-service streaming management.

The Difference Between Google TV and Android TV

Google TV is an interface that runs on top of Android TV, which is the operating system powering the devices.

Similarities:
Both Android TV and Google TV allow you to watch and interact with content. Both platforms offer the same wide range of smart TV apps, streaming services, games, support for voice commands via Google Assistant, smart home controls, Chromecast features, and media streaming.

Main Difference:
Android TV is the operating system, while Google TV is the modern interface that users interact with.

A Chromecast with Google TV, or a TV equipped with Google TV, will always have Android TV as its underlying operating system.