Is TV with Android the same as AndroidTV?

by CaribouSun

I'm looking for TV to buy and I encountered this Philips model that has Android 5.0 onboard.

http://www.philips.co.uk/c-p/50PFT6550_12/6500-series-full-hd-slim-led-tv-powered-by-androidtm-with-ambilight-3-sided-and-perfect-pixel-hd/specifications

  • Does it mean it's the same functionality as AndroidTV or is something different?

  • Will I be able to install Kodi on it?

  • It says that there's possibility to extend memory via USB storage. Does it mean USB sticks or USB connected hard drives as well?

  • Do you think it's good buy or is it better to buy TV without this function and get standalone AndroidTV box?

Thanks in advance for all your thoughts.

chambo622

It's certainly odd that they don't simply refer to it as "Android TV" - but after looking at the screenshots and videos it's very clear that yes, this is running Android TV.

In terms of whether it's worth it - would you save more than $100-200 by getting a TV without Android TV built in? If so, maybe do that and pick up a Nexus Player or Shield. But if the price is roughly comparable, getting an integrated set sounds like a good deal.

Mr_You

Generally speaking you are better off buying a "dumb" TV and upgrading your Android TV box every few years like a smartphone. It seems the hardware used in these smart TVs are poor performers and there might also be a lack of software/security updates.

See /r/HomeTheater for TV suggestions.

deadringer28

The TV is not much more than a TV without Android TV functionality and when it gets outdated you can rely on the HDMI ports to extend it's life. the most important factor is picture and if it hs a good one the rest is just gravy.

o0adam0o

  1. If you can use a flash drive you can usually use a external hard drive. The problem is knowing if the TV can power the hard drive. Some need more power than others. I don't see any specifications that clarify all that. So there is no telling.

  2. You can get a Amazon Fire TV that will probably do whatever that TV can. They be found used for around $50. Keep in mind there will be a new one within the next few months. Another option is an Nvidea Shield that came out this year. It's $200 but is pretty awesome.

If a smart version of a TV cost $200 more than a non-smart with same specs then I wouldn't bother buying the smart version. You are better off buying a $100 Android box that you can upgrade.

Edit: Not sure if you can sideload Kodi on it. Honestly I wouldn't risk it. Lots of these TVs are locked down and dont allow you to install many apps.