In the market you find many smart televisions, from different brands, but that work with the same platforms, Google TV and Android TV. The two are the most chosen by manufacturers. Therefore, when buying a new TV, You should not only choose a brand, but also the type of system. So, it is best to know the differences between these two systems, Android TV and Google TV, to decide which one to choose.
Differences between Google TV and Android TV
If you are thinking of buying a television, you need to know the main differences between Google TV and Android TV. Both systems are similar, because, at the end of the day, they both belong to Google. But, each one has its peculiarities and that is what we want you to learn with us.
Android TV was released back in 2014 and it is the option that became most popular and is based on the Android mobile operating system. For this reason, its interface is more familiar to users of that operating system. While Google TV, which was launched in 2020, is an evolution of Android TV or an improved version of it, but its operating system is newer.
Both operating systems They are compatible with many devices and brands. Although, in recent years, many brands have leaned towards Google TV and have decided to pre-install this system over Android TV on the most recent television models. Let's see why this decision.
Google TV Features
Google TV suggests personalized content and application recommendations through machine learning based on user tastes. Through its intelligent engine shows you the content based on your previous viewing habits. Precisely, its home screen stands out for personalized content recommendations.
In addition, it has a kids setting mode that suggests content appropriate for different ages. For parents it is the best because it allows them to have precise control of what is played.
On Google TV find your favorite streaming platforms such as Prime Video, Netflix, Disney Plus, YouTube and HBO Max, among others. On your home screen it shows you the content available on these streaming services that fit your tastes. Therefore, it becomes easier to discover new movies and series to watch. You can search for movies and series from platforms like Netflix directly from the home screen, without having to enter each application separately. You can also add movies and series you want to watch from the Google TV interface or directly from your phone.
Also supports multiple users, but each one can use their profile separately. This allows for more personal organization on the home screen and prevents other people from using your accounts for services like Netflix or YouTube.
It has constant updates, so you are always up to date with all services that you have hired, this makes access easier and everything is more organized.
Google TV also integrates the Google assistant to perform voice searches. Finally, Google TV integrates with Google Home so you can control smart devices from the TV screen.
Features of AndroidTV
Now let's talk about the features of Android TV. It is also a Google product, as we explained in the introduction. This operating system was designed for televisions, but today it is present in other devices such as TV boxes, Mi Box and sound bars.
Android TV allows download apps from the play store, just like on your phone. Its interface is organized, it shows you the applications you have installed and recommends content. However, one of the big differences that Android TV has is that it does not offer the complete and personalized integration that Google TV does provide. What they do have in common is that they both allow voice searches for multimedia content and control other smart devices using voice commands.
Both systems, Google TV and Android TV, support Google Cast, a function that allows you to stream content to TV from your phone.
One point to note about Android TV is that it has been updating its interface to look more like Google TV. It has added home tabs, discovery options and applications.
Which is better, Google TV or Android TV?
Naked eye Android TV and Google TV seem to be practically the same, but, as you have noticed, they have their differences. On the one hand, Google TV focuses more on content integration. Group movies and series in one place and allow better management of your list of things to watch. Additionally, Google TV supports multiple users, a functionality that Android TV does not yet offer.
Many manufacturers are integrating Google TV into their new products and have left aside Android TV. It is expected that the new updates, Televisions with Android TV update their interface to Google TV. Whether it's worth switching from Android TV to Google TV depends on your needs. If your Android TV works fine but isn't receiving updates, you might consider getting a Chromecast with Google TV.