Google TV is a streaming platform that combines content from across various streaming services, making it easy to find and watch your favorite shows and movies. It is available on the Chromecast with Google TV dongle, which plugs into your TV’s HDMI port.
Key Features of Google TV
- Personalized recommendations: Google TV learns your preferences and suggests personalized content based on your watch history and interests.
- Universal search: Search across multiple streaming services at once to easily find what you’re looking for.
- Live TV: Access live TV channels from popular streaming services like YouTube TV and Sling TV.
- Google Assistant integration: Use your voice to control Google TV, search for content, or ask for recommendations.
- 4K HDR support: Enjoy crystal-clear picture quality with support for 4K resolution and HDR.
Availability in the United Kingdom
Google TV on Chromecast is available in the United Kingdom through the following retailers:
Retailer | Price |
---|---|
Amazon | £59.99 |
Argos | £59.99 |
Currys | £59.99 |
John Lewis | £59.99 |
Richer Sounds | £59.99 |
How to Set Up Google TV on Chromecast
- Connect Chromecast to your TV: Plug the Chromecast dongle into your TV’s HDMI port and connect it to a power source.
- Download the Google Home app: Install the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Set up Chromecast: Open the Google Home app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Chromecast.
- Sign in to Google TV: Use your Google account to sign in to Google TV and start streaming.
Supported Streaming Services
Google TV supports a wide range of streaming services in the United Kingdom, including:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney+
- Apple TV+
- BBC iPlayer
- ITV Hub
- All 4
- My5
- YouTube
- Sling TV
- YouTube TV
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between Google TV and Android TV?
A: Google TV is the latest version of Android TV, featuring a new user interface and additional features like personalized recommendations and universal search.
Q: Do I need to subscribe to a streaming service to use Google TV?
A: Yes, you will need to subscribe to at least one streaming service to access content on Google TV.
Q: Can I use Google TV without a Google account?
A: No, you will need to have a Google account to sign in to and use Google TV.
Q: What devices are compatible with Google TV on Chromecast?
A: Google TV on Chromecast is compatible with TVs that have an HDMI port and are running on Android TV OS 8.0 or higher.
Google TV Channels in the UK
Google TV offers a wide selection of channels in the UK, providing users with access to a vast range of content including live TV, movies, and TV shows.
Live TV Channels:
- BBC iPlayer: Provides a wide range of channels including BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, and BBC Four.
- ITV Hub: Offers live streaming of ITV, ITV2, ITV3, and ITV4.
- All 4: Includes live channels for Channel 4, E4, More4, and Film4.
- My5: Streams live TV from Channel 5, 5Star, 5USA, and 5Spike.
- Amazon Prime Video Channels: Offers a subscription-based service with live channels such as AMC, Discovery+, and Eurosport.
On-Demand Content:
- Netflix: Offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and documentaries.
- Disney+: Features content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.
- Amazon Prime Video: Provides access to a variety of movies, TV shows, and original content.
- NOW: Offers live and on-demand content from Sky channels such as Sky Cinema, Sky Sports, and Sky Atlantic.
- Apple TV+: Provides original movies and TV shows exclusive to the platform.
Google TV provides a seamless integration of these channels and services, allowing users to easily access their favorite content in one place.
Best Google TV Channels in the UK
Google TV offers a wide range of TV channels in the UK, including live TV, catch-up services, and streaming apps. Here are some of the most popular and highly-rated Google TV channels:
- BBC iPlayer: Offers live and on-demand content from the BBC, including news, documentaries, dramas, comedies, and sports.
- ITV Hub: Provides live and catch-up TV from ITV, as well as original content and exclusive shows.
- All 4: Home to content from Channel 4, including dramas, comedies, reality shows, and documentaries.
- My5: Offers live and on-demand TV from Channel 5, plus exclusive series and films.
- Netflix: A popular streaming service with a vast library of movies, TV shows, and documentaries.
- Amazon Prime Video: Another popular streaming service with a wide selection of content, including original series and films.
- Disney+: A streaming service dedicated to Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
- Apple TV+: Offers original TV shows and movies from Apple.
- YouTube TV: A live TV streaming service that includes major networks and local channels.
- Pluto TV: A free streaming service with a wide variety of channels, including news, sports, movies, and entertainment.
Free Google TV Channels in the UK
Google TV offers access to a wide range of free channels in the UK, including:
- News: BBC News, Sky News, ITV News, CNBC
- Entertainment: Pluto TV, Crackle, Samsung TV Plus
- Movies: Tubi TV, Plex, Vudu
- TV shows: Plex, BritBox, Pluto TV
- Sports: DAZN, Premier Sports, RedBull TV
- Kids: YouTube Kids, Kidoodle TV, Nick Jr.
- Music: Vevo, Stingray Music
To access these free channels, users can download the Google TV app on compatible devices such as smart TVs, streaming sticks, and mobile phones. Once installed, follow these steps:
- Open the Google TV app
- Click on "For you"
- Scroll down to "Apps"
- Select "Get apps"
- Search for "Free channels" or browse categories
- Install the desired apps
- Launch the apps to start streaming
Note: The availability of certain channels may vary depending on location.
Paid Google TV Channels in the UK
Google TV in the UK offers a variety of paid channels, providing users with access to premium content. Noteworthy channels include:
- BritBox: Home to classic and contemporary British TV shows.
- Prime Video Channels: Subscribers can add channels like Starzplay, MGM+, and Discovery+ to their Prime Video account.
- Now: Offers bundles with Sky Cinema, Sky Sports, and BT Sport.
- Hayu: Features a wide selection of reality TV shows.
- Rakuten TV: Provides a mix of free and paid content, including popular movies and TV series.
These channels offer convenient access to exclusive content, with subscriptions typically billed through Google Play. Prices vary depending on the channel and bundle selected.
How to Get Google TV in the UK
To get Google TV in the UK, follow these steps:
- Check compatibility: Ensure your TV is compatible with Google TV or Android TV OS.
- Use a VPN service: Due to licensing restrictions, Google TV is not officially available in the UK. Use a VPN service with US servers to connect to the US Google Play Store.
- Create a US Google account: Set up a new Google account using a US address and phone number.
- Install Google TV from the Play Store: Connect to the VPN, open the US Google Play Store, and search for "Google TV." Install the app.
- Sign in with US Google account: Enter your US Google account credentials to sign in to Google TV.
- Enjoy Google TV: Access all the features and content available on Google TV, including popular streaming services and apps.
How to Watch Google TV in the UK
Google TV is a streaming platform that offers a wide range of content, including live TV, on-demand movies and TV shows, and apps. It is available in the US, Canada, and some other countries, but it is not yet officially available in the UK. However, there are a few ways to watch Google TV in the UK.
- Use a VPN. A VPN (virtual private network) can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in your country. There are many different VPN providers available, both free and paid.
- Use an app. There are a few apps that allow you to watch Google TV content in the UK. These apps include:
- Plex
- Emby
- Jellyfin
- Use a smart TV or streaming stick. Some smart TVs and streaming sticks support Google TV. These devices include:
- Google Chromecast with Google TV
- Nvidia Shield TV
- Sony Bravia TVs
Google TV Apps in the UK
Google TV’s app store offers a wide range of streaming services and entertainment apps UK users, including:
- Streaming services: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, Now TV, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Channel 4, My5
- News and sports: BBC News, Sky News, ITV News, Channel 4 News, BT Sport, Sky Sports
- Music: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Deezer, SoundCloud
- Movies and TV shows: Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Video, Microsoft Store, Rakuten TV
- Other entertainment: YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, STARZPLAY, Paramount+
Google TV Devices in the UK
Google TV devices, including Chromecast with Google TV and Android TV devices, have gained significant popularity in the UK. They offer a streaming experience that integrates live TV, on-demand content, and personalized recommendations.
With Google TV, users can access a wide range of content from popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. They can also watch live TV channels, including those from terrestrial broadcasters like BBC, ITV, and Channel 4.
Google TV devices feature a user-friendly interface with a customizable home screen. They support voice control through Google Assistant, allowing users to search for content and control their TV using voice commands. Additionally, devices like Chromecast with Google TV support 4K resolution and Dolby Atmos audio for an enhanced viewing experience.
Google TV Remote Control UK
Google TV’s remote control in the UK is a sleek and functional device that offers a wide range of features to enhance your viewing experience. Here are its key features:
- Voice search: Speak into the remote to search for content across streaming services and apps.
- Dedicated buttons: Direct access to YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video with one-touch buttons.
- Backlit keys: Allows for easy navigation even in dimly lit rooms.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Wirelessly pairs with your TV, removing the need for a line of sight.
- TV controls: Adjust volume, change channels, and power on/off your TV directly from the remote.
- Assistant button: Trigger Google Assistant for voice commands, playback control, and device management.
- Ergonomic design: Comfortable to hold and use, with a textured back for secure grip.