Google has begun rolling out updates to Google TV — including the new Google TV Streamer - which allows viewers to control their smart home from their TV.
The new home panel on Google TV lets users control all compatible smart home devices, including lights, thermostats and cameras.
New doorbell notifications also allow users to see who’s at the front door without pausing what they are watching.
Devices can be controlled using voice and the Google Assistant.
When not watching TV, users can switch on an improved ambient screensaver to create AI-generated designs or set screensaver photos from Google Photos.
Elsewhere, the new sports page in the For You tab houses all sports content in one place. This includes live and upcoming games, sports commentary, YouTube highlights and personalised recommendations.
Google TV also includes enhanced overviews of movies and shows using Gemini technology, including full summaries, audience reviews and season-by-season breakdowns.
Google TV Freeplay, which offers 150 free channels such as Heartland, The FBI Files and ION Plus, is getting an updated channel guide with browsing by genre and topic.
The new features were outlined in a Google blog post by Rob Caruso, Director of Product Management and UX at Google TV.
You are not signed in
Only registered users can comment on this article.
Hard cases now black and blue
Italian case manufacturer HPRC (High Performance Resin Cases) is celebrating 20 years in production with its latest HPRC Pro Series, which is now available in an All Black (ABK) configuration alongside existing Bassano Blue (BLB) versions.
MediaKind and Harmonic complete merger
The merger of MediaKind and Harmonic's video business is now complete, with the combined company bringing together SaaS streaming, appliance platforms and cloud video technologies.
Small box for big monitoring
The RM-X-64, a new audio over IP (AoIP) reference monitor from Sonifex, supports 128 channels of simultaneous monitoring in a 1U chassis. The rear depth is less than 20cm, making it suitable for space-constrained environments such as OB vehicles and master control rooms.
Predicting creative outcomes with AI
New York-based start-up Presaige is expanding its predictive intelligence platform to include a thumbnail optimisation tool, a carousel sequencing tool, an expanded API for enterprise, and integration with the Simian AI platform.
Roku launches smart projectors to corner UK market
Roku has revealed it will launch Roku TV Smart Projectors in the United Kingdom from June 2026 on Amazon.

