Google TV App Redesign: New Features & Recommendations

Google TV App Receives a Significant Update

Following the introduction of Google TV last autumn as the new interface for Chromecast devices, Google is now releasing a redesigned companion app for Android. This updated mobile application for Google TV features a refreshed user interface, broadened content recommendations, and an expanded library of movies and television shows.

From Play Movies & TV to Google TV

Previously known as “Google Play Movies & TV,” the app was rebranded to simply “Google TV” coinciding with the Chromecast updates in September. Users can now explore a catalog of over 700,000 movies and TV episodes from leading streaming services.

The app allows users to discover new content, as well as rent or purchase movies and shows, including the latest releases.

A More Cinematic Visual Experience

Google is enhancing the app’s aesthetic with new 16:9 widescreen posters for movies and shows. This design change aims to provide a more immersive and “cinematic” visual experience for users.

Improved Content Discovery

Rotten Tomatoes scores are now displayed directly beneath each poster. This addition assists users in making informed decisions about what to watch.

Users can also access a movie or TV show’s details page to mark content as “watched.” This action refines the app’s recommendations based on viewing history.

Personalized Recommendations

The app’s recommendation system has been improved to align more closely with the experience on the TV. It now incorporates your viewing history, interests from your Google account, and trending content in your region.

Trending recommendations are curated from popular content across Google products, online discussions, and selections from human editors. Expect suggestions like “summer blockbusters” or other timely themes.

The app will also highlight new movie and show releases from subscribed streaming services.

Expanded Content Providers

The app’s content library has been expanded with the addition of new providers. These include Discovery+, Viki, Cartoon Network, PBS Kids, and Boomerang.

On-demand content from live TV services like YouTube TV, Philo, and fuboTV are also now available within the app.

These providers were previously inaccessible for search and discovery within the mobile app following the platform update last fall.

Google TV’s Growing User Base

During the I/O Developer conference in May, Google announced that the Android TV OS has reached 80 million monthly active devices.

However, Google did not specify the number of users streaming through Google TV for Chromecast, which operates on the Android TV OS.

The reported figure encompasses a broader range of Android TV OS-powered devices, including those from other streaming device manufacturers and TV service providers.

Availability

These new features are currently available on the Google TV Android app in the U.S. A timeline for availability on other platforms or for international expansion has not yet been announced.