Technology

Google Unveils Exciting Update: Smart Home Panel Coming to All Google TV Devices!

2024-09-23

In a groundbreaking announcement today, Google is set to revolutionize the user experience across all its Google TV devices by rolling out a suite of impressive new features. The tech giant confirmed that upcoming updates will extend the capabilities of its eagerly anticipated Google TV Streamer to a wider array of devices, including Google TVs, Chromecasts with Google TV, and compatible third-party streamers like the Onn, available at Walmart. This is particularly comprehensive news for fans as these enhancements will be available in the coming weeks!

One standout feature is the innovative Smart Home Control Panel that will empower users to manage their smart devices directly from their TV remotes. This intuitive panel, easily accessed through a tile in the quick settings, allows for seamless control over devices connected to Google Home. Whether you want to turn lights on or dim them, trigger ‘Movie Time’ scenes, or adjust your thermostat, all can be done effortlessly. It even supports live feeds from connected cameras, allowing users to see who’s at the door through a picture-in-picture notification when someone rings their Google Nest doorbell.

Moreover, sports enthusiasts are in for a treat with the introduction of a dedicated Sports Page within the “For You” tab. This feature compiles all your favorite sports content—including YouTube highlights—into one convenient location. However, it is important to note that this feature is currently exclusive to users in the United States.

Additionally, Google is integrating impressive AI features powered by its Gemini system across the Google TV ecosystem. Users can look forward to personalized summaries, reviews, and season breakdowns of their favorite shows, making selection easier than ever. The ambient mode also sees a significant upgrade, now allowing users to create stunning screensaver art with generative AI.

Google TV Freeplay, the exciting FAST option available exclusively in the US, is also getting a boost with the introduction of 150 free channels and an upgraded channel guide that simplifies browsing by genres and topics.

Remarkably, Google TV continues to dominate the streaming landscape, boasting over 270 million monthly active devices worldwide, thus firmly establishing itself as the number one streaming platform globally. The company has plans to expand its reach further into countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, all while collaborating with additional hardware brands. This includes partnerships with Asus for smart monitors and projector brands like Epson, XGIMI, Vankyo, along with plans to enhance art TVs from Hisense and TCL.

Stay tuned as Google continues to push the envelope, bringing exciting innovations that will make your viewing experience smarter and more enjoyable than ever before!