Google TV – the company’s TV interface that runs on top of the Android TV operating system – has been updated with a number of new features on supported devices including the recently launched Google TV streamer. The update comes just days after the Mountain View-based tech giant released a security update for Chromecast with Google TV. With this, Google TV users will see a new Home panel that acts as the central hub for all compatible smart home devices. Additionally, the tech giant also says that it is using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the game page and content overview.
Google TV gets a new update
In a blog post on Monday, the tech giant detailed the new features with the latest Google TV update. These features are currently being rolled out and are expected to be available to all users in the next few days.
With the latest update, users will get a new home panel on their Google TV interface. It will act as a central hub for compatible smart home devices like lights, thermostat, cameras, and more. Users can control all devices using Google Assistant via remote or through voice. Additionally, users can also see doorbell notifications on smart TVs, allowing users to see who is coming over without getting up from the couch.
Ambient screensavers, the wallpaper that appears when the TV screen is idle, are also getting an upgrade. Users will now be able to create AI-generated designs and set them as screensavers. Users can go through a series of suggested prompts or type a prompt to let the AI create a unique artwork. Alternatively, users can ask the Google Assistant to select their favorite memories from Google Photos and display them.
The new update also integrates AI capabilities in various ways. The For You tab will now display all sports content in one place called the Sports Page. Using AI, Google TV will make it easier to find live and upcoming games, find sports commentary or browse YouTube highlights. Users can also get personalized recommendations based on their viewing history.
Additionally, the tech giant is using Gemini to offer a better overview of popular movies and shows. These new overviews come with full summaries, viewer reviews as well as season-by-season breakdowns to help users decide whether they will enjoy the content.
Last year, Google TV launched free built-in channels, allowing users to watch regionally available channels without any download or subscription. This feature was named Google TV FreePlay, and is now being upgraded with channel guides. With it, users can browse daily broadcast schedules by genre and topic and find their favorite shows.
