Google is advising buyers to only use certified Android TV and Google TV devices like Chromecast and devices from official partners such as Nvidia, Philips, Sony, Sharp, TCL and Xiaomi.
In May, security researchers warned that popular Android TV boxes from AllWinner and RockChip sold by major retailers come preloaded with malware, specifically a botnet that generates money by tapping on ads, although the botnet can be reconfigured remotely to do anything.
Despite having 'Android TV' in the name, these boxes actually run mobile Android (AOSP) with a modified user interface for TVs. Any manufacturer can load a TV box with mobile Android without oversight.
Google responds
Much like FlatpanelsHD's warning and recommendation earlier this month, Google is recommending that you steer clear of these TV boxes which are not certified.
- "... we work with our partners to ensure Android TV OS devices adhere to stringent security and privacy policies and undergo extensive testing to ensure quality and user safety," Google said in its response.
- "We have recently received questions regarding TV boxes that are built with Android Open Source Project and are being marketed to appear as Android TV OS devices. Some of them may also come with Google apps and the Play Store that are not licensed by Google, which means that these devices are not Play Protect certified," it added.
Android TV (left) and Google TV (right). If your homescreen doesn't look like this, then it's not a certified device, unless it is very old in which case it looks like this
Is yours Play Protected?
Play Protect is Google's system for malware protection in apps. You can check if you device is Play Protect certified by following these steps.
In addition, certified Android TV and Google TV devices only have access to TV-optimized apps from a special Google Play store. You can see which companies are certified for Android TV and Google TV here. However, note that some brands of certified boxes are produced by their parent company, for example Strong boxes produced by Skyworth.
Also read: Android TV vs. Google TV: Differences and TV models
- "If your device isn't Play Protect certified, we recommend you contact your device manufacturer and ask for a fully tested, Play Protect certified device," said Google.
FlatpanelsHD recommends and reviews only certified Android TV and Google TV devices.
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