As Google TV is gradually filling its user interface with more and more ads, development of alternative launchers – user interfaces – has picked up pace. Here are some of your latest options.
Last year, FlatpanelsHD published a guide on how to replace the standard Google TV interface to get rid of ads, focusing on the popular Projectivy Launcher.
Things have gotten worse since then. In addition to non-content ads in the top carousel and content ads disguised as "recommendations", Google TV is rolling out full-screen video ads to more and more countries, pushing your apps and content out of view.
New Google TV launchers in 2026
Since we published our guide last year, several developers and readers have contacted us with tips about launchers offering alternative user interfaces or features such as widgets.
Like Projectivy Launcher, they can easily be installed through the Google Play Store on your TV or streaming box running Android TV or Google TV. This includes TVs from TCL, Hisense, Philips, Sony and Sharp as well as devices such as Google TV Streamer, Chromecast with Google TV, Nvidia Shield, Walmart Onn, Nokia and Strong.
Here are some of the launchers we have had a chance to look at. Which one do you use, and what has your experience been?
Alternative Google TV launchers
Monet Launcher
Launched in May 2026 with an interface that automatically matches the color palette of app icons to your selected background. It was developed by Klevico and built around Google's Material You design language, so the launcher still looks and feels like Android. You can change the layout and add widgets, and it also supports user profiles. The developer emphasizes that there are no ads or sponsored content as well as no data tracking or account requirement.
Price: Free, but premium features cost $5.
AT4K Launcher
Launched in January 2026 with the aim of making Android TV and Google TV look like the Apple TV interface, without ads or other distractions. You get highlighted content from the apps you place on the 'top shelf' at the top, wrapped in a simple and appealing design. The app feels reasonably responsive and runs smoothly. It also supports widgets. The launcher is developed by Cute Little Apps.
Price: Free, but premium features cost $5.
Kyu Launcher
Launched in May 2026 and based on the Roku interface, but without ads when installed on your Android TV or Google TV. You have a menu on the left, with content or app icons on the right, along with shortcuts for switching inputs such as HDMI. The interface can be customized to your liking.
Price: Free, but premium features cost $4.
Couchy Launcher
Launched in August 2026 as a free, open-source launcher. This launcher is not available through the Google Play Store, however, so it has to be installed using a downloadable .apk file instead. This requires a little extra effort but a step-by-step guide is provided. The launcher promises a simple interface that again bears a strong resemblance to Apple TV, while offering customization options. According to the developer, Couchy has no ads, sponsored content, tracking or account requirement. You can choose from 18 languages.
Price: Free
FLauncher
Launched in June 2021 as a free, open-source launcher focused on giving sideloaded apps a place on Android TV and Google TV homescreen, which by default hides sideloaded apps from their interfaces. Alongside all the familiar streaming apps, of cource. It is a very simple interface without unnecessary frills, but it is also less polished. The launcher has not been updated since April 2023, so while it still works, its expiration date may be approaching.
Price: Free |
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