When it comes to Android TV devices that come from Pay TV or Telco Providers, why they need an additional certification from Netflix and Prime Video besides Google?

by NoelP1987

I recently research on Android TV set top boxes from Pay TV and Telco Providers on their Android TV guide website. Where I found out that some Android TV devices even Google certified don't have Netflix or Prime Video Certification, some device have either Netflix or Prime Video only and some have both certification. I don't know why some other streaming apps like Disney Plus can support on all Android tv STB while Netflix and Prime Video need some permission to access to the device. Take for example my Sky Cable Evo box; it has Prime Video on it but not Netflix. Is there money involved here or is the industry practice to be more anti competitive?

Deadpool-fan-466

FYI, Android TV devices from Pay TV providers are called "operator tier" devices in general.

Yes, all certified Android TV devices (operator tier or not) have to get additional certification from Netflix & Prime Video.

Netflix is more strict than Prime video when it comes to certification. There are very few devices that have Netflix support but not prime video.

chubbybator

Last time I looked at it (years ago) it had to do with licensing fees. When Netflix signed contracts with whoever owns the movies they show they agreed to only stream with DRM enabled. So Netflix has to verify your Android TV box will support whatever copy protection the movie studios insisted on using

preterist-seek

Well I hope that DirecTV Stream adds AppleTV + to their box, it's the only major app it hasn't added yet.