6 best Google TV tricks

In this guide, I’ll explain the best tricks to get the most out of Google TV . I’ll show you some somewhat hidden settings, features that few users know about, and tools included in this multimedia platform. After carefully reading what I tell you here, you’ll undoubtedly be able to get more out of your Chromecast with Google TV , Google Streamer, or the smart TV you have at home.

Remember, if you’re having trouble with your device, I’ve also published a guide showing you how to troubleshoot the main Google TV issues . We’ve even shown you how to expand your Chromecast’s storage and watch live channels on this platform . With these guides on your reading list and everything I tell you here, you’ll be ready to get the most out of this Android TV-based operating system .

• Manage app updates on Google TV
• Take a look at the apps you don’t use
• Activate Apps Only mode
• Pair any Bluetooth device
• Get more out of Google Assistant
• Install third-party tools to do more with Google TV

Manage app updates on Google TV

Google TV usually updates apps automatically . However, it typically doesn’t download new versions immediately, but rather periodically. If you’re someone who needs the latest updates, you always have the option of manually checking for pending updates . How?

Follow these steps:

1. Go to your Google TV settings.
2. Tap on Apps .
3. Then, select Manage applications .
4. Click on Check for available updates .
5. Finally, take a look at the count that appears on the screen. If you see any updates, go to the corresponding section to install them all.

Take a look at the apps you don’t use

Not all Google TV devices have enough storage . Some are a bit tight on space, so it’s crucial to know which apps you’re not using. This allows you to see if there are any apps you can uninstall and, at the same time, avoid missing them.

You just have to do this:

1. Go to Settings > Apps .
2. Tap on the Unused Apps section .
3. Check the list of all the apps you haven’t used.

Keep in mind that apps that haven’t been opened in at least a month will appear here. If you think it’s time to delete one of them, simply return to the previous screen, tap See all apps , and select the one you want to uninstall. You’ll find the option to delete it in the app’s options menu.

Activate Apps Only mode

Not many people know this, but Google TV has an Apps Only mode. And why is it necessary? You may already know that Google TV isn’t an operating system . It’s actually a layer of customization that Google applies to Android TV. The point is, one of Google TV’s missions is to help you discover new content , regardless of the platform. That’s why the Google TV interface is full of marquees, slideshows, and playlists.

In addition to organic content, which Google TV recommends based on your tastes and preferences, there are also ads for apps, series, and platforms . With Apps Only mode, the interface changes completely and displays only installed apps.

If you prefer this more minimalist experience, just do the following:

1. Go to Google TV settings.
2. Tap Accounts & Login .
3. Select your account. This setting can be changed individually for each user. So if someone prefers the full experience, they don’t need to activate the app-only mode.
4. Finally, select Apps Only mode .

Pair any Bluetooth device

You may not know it, but your TV or Chromecast with Google TV works perfectly with any Bluetooth device. In fact, you can pair an accessory just like you would on your phone . This opens up a world of possibilities. For example, you can connect a controller to play compatible titles or pair one of the best Bluetooth headphones to listen to content individually.

After putting the device in pairing mode, simply go to Settings > Controllers & Accessories . Tap Pair Accessory and select the device you want to pair from the list.

Get more out of Google Assistant

Google Assistant comes built into your Google TV . The best part is that you can send commands from your TV, whether to control the system itself, get updated information, or simply manage your smart home.

Here are some ideas for getting the most out of Google Assistant on your TV:

• Create a routine that dims the lights when you’re going to watch a movie.
• Turn on devices from the couch, such as the heater or air conditioner.
• Ask the assistant to open TV apps.
• Search for new apps with your voice.
• Get weather information from your TV.
• Resolve questions about the actors who appear in a series or movie.
• Search for videos on YouTube.

Install third-party tools to do more with Google TV

Finally, I recommend a few tools that will help you get more out of your Google TV . All of them have been developed by third parties and provide important features for your TV. For example, one I use a lot is Send Files to TV . It lets you send any file you have on your phone to your TV . This way, you can, among other things, transfer APK files. In fact, it’s the app we used to explain how to have Telegram on TV .

After sending APK files to your TV, you’ll need to install a file explorer . One great one is File Manager Plus . It’s simple and effective, and lets you explore your Google TV’s internal storage. Here’s a guide that explains where downloads go on Android TV .

On the other hand, if you want to download your files directly to your device’s memory, you can use Downloader . Its main advantage is that it can download apps in APK format and then start the installation directly.

Finally, a quick mention of VLC , one of the best media players out there right now. It’s available on Android TV and will make playing content much easier, whether you’ve saved it to internal storage or an external drive.