Thanks to technology TVs have had their fair share of evolvement. From analog to Smart, it has been a meteoric rise since the invention of digital TV. Right now, the world is spoilt for choice with TVs bragging of mind-blowing features. Smart and Android TVs are running the show as of now – you may never know what technology is about trough in the court any minute from now.
The begging question right now is, is there a difference between a smart and an android TV?
Before getting to that let’s first define both TVs.
A Smart TV, also referred to as internet TV, is a television set with integrated internet capabilities and interactive features. These features typically include internet connectivity, allowing users to stream content from online services, access apps, browse the web, and interact with content through various applications.
Smart TVs often come with a built-in operating system similar to those found in smartphones and PCs, enabling users to navigate through menus and access content.
Android TV is a version of the Android operating system developed by Google specifically for television sets. It provides a platform for smart TVs that includes features such as access to the Google Play Store for downloading and installing apps, built-in Google services like Google Assistant and Chromecast, and a user interface optimized for larger screens.
Android TV allows users to stream content, play games, and interact with various applications and services on their television sets.
According to these definitions, you find out that an Android TV is typically a smart TV running on the Android platform though not all Smart TVs are Android TVs. So, there is a distinction line between the two that can make you prefer one over the other.
The differences between Smart TV and Android TV stem from their underlying operating systems, app ecosystems, update mechanisms, voice control capabilities, screen casting support, and navigation interfaces. Android TV offers a more standardized and feature-rich experience with access to a wider range of apps and services compared to proprietary smart TV platforms.
Differences between Smart TV and Android TV
- Operating System:
- Smart TV: Smart TVs typically run on proprietary operating systems developed by the manufacturer. Examples include WebOS for LG Smart TVs and Tizen for Samsung Smart TVs. These operating systems are tailored specifically for the respective brands and may offer unique features and user interfaces.
- Android TV: Android TV, as the name suggests, is based on the Android operating system developed by Google. It provides a standardized platform across different TV brands, offering a consistent user experience with access to Google services and the Google Play Store.
- App Support:
- Smart TV: Smart TVs come with a limited selection of pre-installed apps, and the availability of additional apps may vary depending on the manufacturer. Users may not have access to a wide range of apps beyond the ones provided by the manufacturer.
- Android TV: Android TV offers access to the Google Play Store, allowing users to download and install a vast array of apps, including popular streaming services, games, productivity tools, and more. The availability of apps is not limited to those pre-installed by the manufacturer, providing greater flexibility and choice to users.
- Automatic Updates:
- Smart TV: Smart TVs may receive firmware updates and app updates sporadically, and the frequency and availability of updates may vary depending on the manufacturer. Users may not always receive timely updates, leading to potential issues with security, performance, and compatibility.
- Android TV: Android TV devices benefit from regular software updates provided by Google, including firmware updates, security patches, and feature enhancements. These updates are delivered directly from Google and are often more consistent and timely compared to updates for proprietary smart TV platforms.
- Voice Assistant:
- Smart TV: Some Smart TVs may offer voice control features, but the availability and functionality of voice assistants may vary depending on the manufacturer. Users may need to use external devices or accessories for voice control.
- Android TV: Android TV comes with built-in Google Assistant support, allowing users to control the TV, search for content, and interact with smart home devices using voice commands. Google Assistant integration is seamless and provides a unified voice control experience across different Android TV devices.
- Screen Casting:
- Smart TV: Smart TVs may support screen mirroring or casting from compatible devices, but the process and compatibility may vary depending on the manufacturer and the devices involved. Users may encounter limitations or inconsistencies in screen casting functionality.
- Android TV: Android TV devices typically come with built-in Chromecast support, enabling seamless screen casting from compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. Chromecast integration ensures reliable and high-quality screen mirroring with minimal setup and configuration required.
- Navigation:
- Smart TV: Smart TVs often feature user-friendly interfaces designed to simplify navigation and make it easy for users to access apps, content, and settings. The interface may vary depending on the manufacturer’s design choices and may offer customization options.
- Android TV: Android TV provides a consistent and intuitive user interface across different devices, leveraging familiar Android design principles and navigation patterns. While some users may find the Android TV interface more complex initially, it offers comprehensive navigation features and customization options for a personalized user experience.
