What's the difference between Android TV and Google TV?

Android TV and Google TV are both platforms developed by Google for smart TVs and streaming devices, but they differ in several key aspects:

1.Operating System and Interface:

• Android TV: Originally launched in 2014, Android TV is an operating system designed for smart TVs, set-top boxes, and streaming devices. It provides a customizable platform based on the Android operating system, allowing manufacturers to integrate it into their hardware and customize the user interface to some extent.

• Google TV: Introduced in 2020, Google TV is a newer iteration and a successor to Android TV in terms of user interface and content aggregation. Google TV is not a separate operating system but rather a layer (or skin) that sits on top of Android TV. It emphasizes a more personalized and content-centric experience, integrating recommendations and content from various streaming services into one interface.

  
  

2.User Interface and Features:

• Android TV: Offers a more traditional Android-like interface, with app icons and a layout that varies depending on the manufacturer’s customization. It generally focuses more on apps and allows users to customize the home screen with preferred apps and widgets.

• Google TV: Features a more unified and content-focused interface. It aggregates content from various streaming services (like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu) into one interface, providing personalized recommendations based on the user's viewing habits and preferences. It also integrates Google Assistant for voice control and search.

3.Integration with Google Services:

• Both Android TV and Google TV integrate with Google services such as Google Play Store for apps, Google Assistant for voice commands, and Google Cast for streaming content from mobile devices.

4.Hardware Support and Availability:

• Android TV has been available on a wide range of smart TVs and streaming devices from various manufacturers (Sony, Samsung, NVIDIA, etc.) since its launch.

• Google TV was initially launched with the Chromecast with Google TV device in 2020, but it has since expanded to be available on other devices and smart TVs, often as an upgrade to existing Android TV devices via software updates.

In summary, while Android TV is an operating system platform for smart TVs and devices, Google TV is more of a user interface and content aggregation layer that enhances the Android TV experience with a focus on personalized content recommendations and ease of use.