Freeview Play Comes to Android TV
TechsPlace | If you own an Android TV, you’ll be glad to know that Freeview Play is finally available on your device. Android TV owners have been calling for Freeview Play functionality for a long time, but it’s only recently that it became available. Now, you can make the most of watching 80+ free channels on an Android TV, without the need for a subscription.
Of course, the good news doesn’t stop there. It isn’t just 80+ live channels that are available on Freeview Play. You can also take advantage of the seven on-demand services that are accessible. Currently, Freeview Play enables you to use BBC iPlayer, ITV All 4, My 5, UKTV, CBS Catchup, and Horror Bites. Additionally, you can use a number of subscription services, including Prime Video, Netflix and Now TV.
While Android TVs should be able to use Freeview Play straight away, your storage capabilities may limit the amount of media you’re able to record and save. If so, there’s a simple workaround. With a dedicated Freeview Play recorder, you can increase the amount of storage you have available. What’s more, you’ll have no concerns about compatibility or functionality when you have a dedicated Freeview Play recorder.
To make the most of the service, you’ll want to choose a multi-tuner Freeview Play recorder. The ability to pause, rewind, and record live TV ensures you can watch your favorite shows at a time that suits you. With a multi-tuner Freeview Play recorder, however, you can record numerous channels at once and make sure you never miss out on a nail-biting drama, a laugh out loud comedy, or the latest films.
What is Android TV?
If you’re unfamiliar with the term ‘Android TV’, you’re not alone. Despite being one of the newest releases in digital entertainment, many people are still unsure exactly what it means or if it’s relevant to their setup. Android TV simply refers to Google’s Android operating system being made available on TVs, set-top boxes, soundboards, and digital media players.
However, Android TV doesn’t look like the Android operating system you might see on your smartphone or tablet. It’s been specially designed for use on larger screens, and the ribbon-format offers a user-friendly way to browse through your favorite apps, channels, and shows.
As well as watching live TV or on-demand services via Freeview Play, Android TV allows you to access a wide range of apps on the Google Play app store. Hundreds have already been designed solely for use on TV screens, so they’re perfectly formatted for this new functionality.
Additionally, Android TVs have Google Assistant built-in, so you can continue to use voice commands to search for content, ask questions, or control other smart devices. If you’re using Google Assistant as your household assistant, this is certainly a handy feature. Similarly, Chromecast is also worked into Android TVs, so it’s easy to cast videos or screen share from other devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Should You Upgrade to an Android TV?
Avid fans of the Android operating system will no doubt already have tried Android TV, but it has yet to hit the mainstream in the UK. However, partnerships with numerous brands mean that more and more people are becoming aware of Android TV. Whether or not it’s worth upgrading to, however, depends on your existing setup.
If you already have a fully-functionally Smart TV with access to Freeview Play, there’s probably no real need for you to upgrade just yet. Of course, if you’re on the lookout for something new, it might be worth taking a look at what Android TV can offer.
Currently, similar functionality can be obtained for a lower cost, so if you want to keep your budget low, you may want to look elsewhere. Ultimately, the Android TV operating system is impressive, but it’s not too dissimilar from other Smart TV operating systems out there. You’ll find many setups offers are equally as user-friendly, particularly once you’ve been using them for a few days.
As the home entertainment market continues to grow, it’s getting harder for people to choose the best equipment for their needs. Fortunately, the widespread availability and accessibility of Freeview Play mean you don’t need to get caught up in long-term contracts or expensive monthly subscriptions. Providing you choose hardware that facilitates Freeview Play functionality, you’ll have everything you need to access more than 80 live channels, a whopping seven on-demand services, and a growing range of popular paid-for subscription services too.
This article is contributed by guest author on techsplace.com.