Difference between Android TV and Android on television.

by Yusunoha

Hey everyone,

I tried searching this subreddit for an answer, but I couldn't find an answer right away, so I was hoping someone could answer this question for me.

I've noticed that some new televisions say they have Android 7 (or 8) for their TV OS, and another says it has AndroidTV as an OS.

Is there a difference between Android 7/8 and Android TV on these televisions, or are manufacturers just constantly mixing the terms?

And if there is a difference... would it be better to go for a television with AndroidTV or with a television with Android 7/8?

CuvisTheConqueror

Glad you asked. AndroidTV is Google's specific package built around Android for TV use. It includes the TV version of Google Play Services, the Leanback launcher, etc. It's also completely integrated into the Play Store, so any app you download from there is one that is designed to work with the TV interface.

Some other manufacturers simply take the base version of Android and build their own TV packages on it, usually for markets like China where Google Play is not as common. These tend to be a lot rougher around the edges, and chances are very good you may end up having to futz around with pointers and air mouses and what not to use them effectively. Plus, many times they lack DRM clearances to work properly with many apps outside their home market (Netflix tends to be the big one, but there are others).

In general, if Android TV is an option, you are way better off getting Android TV.

Mykeythebee

Make sure is says "AndroidTV" because that could be very different than "a tv with Android"

hosemaster

With Android on TV you are getting the tablet interface, and probably no Google apps.

Android TV has a 10 foot interface, meaning it is designed to be used with a remote from the couch.

raptor75mlt

if it just says Android 8.0 and not AndroidTV 8.0, you should probably avoid.

nezzmarino

All Phillips TVs from 2016 onwards have Android TV, if it says only Android then website contains inaccurate information.

Jashyk

What model of TV are you seeing that says it has Android 7? It's likely AndroidTV anyways, but I'm curious to see if off brand manufacturers are actually putting regular Android on their TVs.

barbrit

Man you guys like to bash Android when it's not Android TV, the simple truth is with Android you have access to every app that's in Google Play. Now I can't speak for Android as a built in tv OS but I'd bet it's the same as an Android Mini PC hooked up to a tv through HDMI it can be controlled with a D pad remote or a fly mouse they are usually one and the same and can be switched back and forth as you see fit with a press of a button. There is simply more you can do with Android vs Android TV I have both, the only true advantage to Android TV is it's simplified for the tv but if you can use an Android phone then Android on a tv should be very easy

CaptZ_3148

Android 7 or 8 is just what version of AndroidTV it is.

For example most TVs and AndroidTV devices recently got updated to Android 8.0.

EDIT: Geez people. If the OP is shopping for a NEW TV it's going to have AndroidTV. No one is selling a new TV with the mobile version of Android ported over in 2019.