Best place to complain about forced Google ads?

by EveryPictureTells

I've seen people suggest leaving a review for Android TV Core Services and calling Google directly (without mentioning a phone number). Has anyone found a good way to send feedback? Google crossed a red line by forcing ads onto hardware people already paid for - in some cases $2000+ for - and they need to be made aware of what a serious mistake this is. The fact that providing feedback is so opaque a process is yet another reason to distrust them.

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Any suggestions welcome. Thanks!

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UPDATE (11:35): I've found what appears to be an appropriate place: https://support.google.com/androidtv/troubleshooter/6125081 , click on "Contact Us" in the upper-right corner, then request a phone call. Unlike the previous link, this is a general Android TV line, and they promised to send my feedback onward. Will update with any further info (like a place to send written feedback instead).

Note that if you're on mobile, the Contact Us option may not appear, so request the desktop version or use a laptop/desktop and look in the upper-right corner.

petong

If anyone wants to get rid of the sponsored content, I found this workaround in another thread:

  • enable developer mode by going to settings -> about and scroll down to Build. click on build 5 times to enable developer mode
  • go to settings -> Developer options and click enable
  • install Android Debug Bridge (adb)
  • from a terminal emulator/command prompt, use adb to connect to your tv: adb connect <tv ip address>:5555
  • run the following command: adb shell pm uninstall com.google.android.tvrecommendations
  • disconnect adb: adb disconnect <your tv ip>

Note: this is specific to sony bravia, adjust to your device

jmcs

Where do you see those ads? I've a Nvidia shield tv and never got any.

psychopape

Open question : how would it be possible to complain on ads from googleTV versus every days forced ads from tv broadcasting? How do you guys see and understand the difference?

Nhstreaming

Received this from Sony in response to my complaint https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/articles/00225587

jaymef

The big corps always get their way. Cord cutting and commercial free options start getting popular and they start jamming ads everywhere else they can. Product placements directly in shows, ads on devices the list goes on. We will never live ad free lives

Snakehn

I tried to send feedback to Google from the link posted but all I get is a blank screen with Android TV support label on the top.

raghuma12

Use ‘adguard’ to block the ads (not only pop-ups but also in apps). It works efficiently for me.

Premium apk here: https://rexdl.com/android/adguard-premium-apk.html/

sarhoshamiral

Unfortunately the only way to protest this if you really care is to not buy the same brand again when it is time to replace your TV and if someone asks you for a recommendation, disrecommend those brands stating why.

Reduced sales will be the only way companies stop doing promoted content. Considering that's highly unlikely, I've just come to accept it now until the time when the inconvenience caused by promoted content overshadows the convenience of Android TV, a smart TV or a smart phone.

rosalindaromero

Try here:
https://support.google.com/google-ads/gethelp

boman

You know what Google's main revenue stream is, right? You probably shouldn't have purchased an AndroidTV.