Android TV gets Google Assistant and new home screen

Google unveiled a lot of goodies at this year’s I/O conference and Android O Beta was amongst most awaited one from Google’s bag. With Android O, another major platform received a major upgrade – Android TV.

Android TV was promised a lot of attention to make it a worthy contender in the race to be the best smart TV platform. Apart from the upgrades under the hood, Android TV also got a major visual overhaul for its home screen. The new home screen organises video content into channels and programs in a familiar way. Apps will be able to put relevant programs on each channel and update these when new content is available.

Each program tile will now include a video preview, which is automatically played when a user focuses on a program. Users are also given the option to choose the channels, shows and themes on the home screen, according to their preferences.

Also, the new home screen gets a quick launch bar at the top. Users can pin their favourite apps for quick and easy access, without navigating through scrollable menus. There’s also a special “Watch Next” channel that contains programs based on the viewing habits of the user.

However, the most revolutionary feature to hit Android TV is Google’s Assistant. The Assistant will bring the unparalleled power of Google Search to the idiot box. Users will also be able to access the Assistant to control playback, even while a video or music is playing. And since the Assistant can control compatible smart home devices, a simple voice request can dim the lights to create an ideal movie viewing environment.

The new Android TV home experience will come to the Nexus Player and other compatible devices as an OTA update.

(Source)