As Google prepares to launch its latest set-top streaming device, the Google TV Streamer, the tech giant has announced a series of exciting updates for all Google TV devices.
Key enhancements include a new home panel for smart home control, AI-powered screensavers, a dedicated sports page, and more.
The company revealed these features on Monday, starting with a revamped home panel that serves as a control center for compatible smart home devices, such as lights, thermostats, and security cameras. Users will now receive doorbell notifications, allowing them to see who is at the door without interrupting their viewing. If the remote is misplaced, Google Assistant can facilitate hands-free control through voice commands.
The home panel can be accessed through Quick Settings and opens as a feed on the right side of the screen.
For sports enthusiasts, Google TV introduces a new sports page in the “For You” tab, consolidating all sports content in one place. This includes live and upcoming games, commentary, YouTube highlights, and personalized recommendations based on user preferences.
In addition, Google TV is incorporating several AI features, including the ability to generate custom screensaver artwork based on user prompts. The “Overviews” feature, powered by Gemini, will provide concise summaries of popular shows and movies, along with season breakdowns and audience reviews.
The Google Freeplay app, offering 150 free channels, is also receiving an update with a streamlined channel guide for easier browsing by genre and topic.
Furthermore, Google TV will expand its compatibility with more Art TVs, including brands like Hisense and TCL, as well as projectors from Epson, Vankyo, and XGIMI. The platform is set to launch in additional countries, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
These updates come just ahead of the release of the Google TV Streamer, signaling the end of Google’s Chromecast lineup. The company reports over 270 million monthly active users on Google TV and Android TV devices.
