Google Home Finally Got the TV Remote

The Google Home app has, at last, received the remote TV feature. Let’s see what you can do with it now.

Every gadget that runs Android 4.3 (or later) can transform into a Google TV remote control. Initially, the feature was first mentioned last May. And after a long period of tinkering, it’s finally here.

The good news, Google TV isn’t the only system you’ll be able to manipulate. Other smart sets like Nvidia Shield and, probably, every Android-based smart TV will also support the feature.

The Open Remote button will be nestled in the bottom left corner of the app. Just a single tap, and you can switch channels, use playback features, tweak the volume, and more.

Additionally, you get to organize a few shortcuts, such as “back,” “home,” and “Google Assistant”. This will become possible upon launching the Open Remote. There, you’ll see the touchpad-like GUI, with which you can do some customization.

For now, the remote control is available for Android gadgets only. However, an iOS-compatible feature was also announced in the past.

Funnily, the iOS version will unlock more privileges than the original Android has. For example, you’ll be able to control more TV systems from your Apple gizmo. This includes Chromecast, Nvidia Shield, TCL, Sony, and so on.

It’s also reported that more Google TV app features are planned for the future. At least one of those is known: turning the TV on from your phone.

And just days ago, Google TV got a new feature to organize your favorite content more accurately. Among the available streaming platforms to choose from are Amazon Prime, Disney NOW, Viki/Rakuten, Pantaya for Spanish-speaking audiences, and others.

It looks like the global update Material You won’t leave a single stone untouched in terms of Android GUI. Which features would you like to add/remove from the updated Android? Let us know in the comments!