Google has refreshed its Google TV software, which should make finding your favourite streaming service easier and help to shine a spotlight on free-to-watch channels. But before you get too excited — it could be months before you’re treated to the re-imagined software on your telly.
That’s because Google has admitted that its latest update could take months to roll-out worldwide.
First up, Google has reworked the icons in the Your Apps carousel, switching from square to circular. Google says this gives its Fire TV and Roku rival “a modern and fresh feel”. But it’s not just about aesthetics, the circular shape enables more apps to fit side-by-side in the row, so you’ll spend less time scrolling to find the streaming service that you’re looking for.
Google TV will now highlight free channels that offer television shows, films, and documentaries that are free-to-watch
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The redesign brings new Reorder and Add Apps controls at the end of the row, helping you control the exact order the software installed on your Google TV-powered television or set-top box will be presented in the carousel.
With everyone tightening their budgets at the moment, Google TV is shining a spotlight on free television channels. The Your Apps row will get a shortcut to free TV channels, where you’ll be able to access local news broadcasts, sports coverage, films, and shows that are available “without the need for additional downloads, payments, or subscriptions”.
Shows like Hell’s Kitchen, Bassmaster and Dateline 24/7 will be among those highlighted, the announcement of the new update on Google’s support pages reveals. Unfortunately, the update will be limited to the United States of America for now, with UK viewers missing out.
Google says the updated interface will be “rolling out to all devices over the next few months”, so you could be faced with quite a wait until you get to enjoy the redesign.
Google TV is the Californian company’s answer to the likes of Amazon’s Fire TV and Roku. It’s used by several popular television manufacturers, including Sony and Philips, to power their Smart TVs and unlock access to the most binge-worthy boxsets, documentaries, and movies.
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The software is found inside the Chromecast with Google TV — a lightweight streaming dongle that plugs directly into the HDMI port on your television and unlocks access to streaming services, games, and the Google Assistant. The chatty AI bot can be used to control smart lightbulbs, adjust smart thermostats, and check live footage from video doorbells on the big screen.
Chromecast with Google TV, which is available in HD and 4K Ultra HD variants, competes directly with the likes of Amazon’s Fire TV Sticks, Roku Streaming Players, and Apple TV.
