From April 2025, new Google TV devices must include a remote control with a prominent 'Free TV' button.
Modern remote controls already have too many sponsored buttons, and now another one is on the way, according to a report by Android Authority.
The new 'Free TV' button will open Freeplay, Google's ad-supported live TV service, in the US. In countries where Freeplay is not available, the button will instead open the live TV guide.
The Onn 4K Pro's remote already has the button. Photo: Walmart
- "Google TV gives users access to a wide range of free TV options, including local news, popular shows and movies. Since we launched free live TV options on Google TV, we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users," said Google's spokesperson.
- "And this change will help provide a consistent experience with quick access at users’ fingertips."
Google's list of requirements
Google is steadily tightening its grip on Google TV devices, both TVs and streaming players.
Since April 2021, Google has required Android TV-based devices to support the AV1 video codec. With Android 13, the company began strongly encouraging manufacturers to include at least 16GB of storage.
Google also mandates that new devices running Android 13 or later support Bluetooth 5.0 or newer. It is part of its effort to elevate the Google TV ecosystem which comprises devices across all price points.
- Source: Android Authority
