Best Android TV Apps – When Android TV debuted in 2014, it quickly rose to the top of the entertainment hierarchy, and there hasn’t been any looking back since.
People can now purchase Android TV boxes, which allow them to convert any television equipped with an HDMI port into an Android TV, packed with capabilities such as HDMI CEC.
As a result of the rising sales of Android TVs, which are now available in many houses throughout the world, the popularity of these boxes has grown.
The 21 top Android TV applications you should install if you have recently purchased an Android TV but don’t know what to do with it are listed below for your convenience.
This collection of apps will enhance your entertainment and Android TV experience, whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or doing something worthwhile.
Let’s get right to it.
Best Android TV Apps To Download
Aptoide TV (FREE)
Using Aptoide TV on your Android TV, you can evade geo-restrictions and watch content from anywhere in the world. You may still download thousands of Android applications, even if your television is not compatible with them.
This third-party app store is a fantastic alternative to the Google Play Store because it allows you to access any program from any location! However, I would encourage you to proceed with caution, as some apps are not reputable.
Send Files To TV (FREE)
Aside from Google Play Store, Send Files to TV is one of the most useful apps on an Android TV. You can transmit files such as music, photographs, movies, and other media as you might have imagined.
When I transfer data, I have to use a thumb drive, but Send Files To TV takes care of everything via wireless technology. You will need to download this app on both your smartphone and your Android TV to make the process as seamless as possible.
This app is a blessing in disguise!
MX Player
MX Player is the undisputed ruler of the media players on the market. I’ve been using it for more than eight years, and it has never let me down! MX Player needs no introduction, thanks to its support for subtitle files and its compatibility with many codecs.
From the user interface to the user experience, or from the capacity to play local files to the ability to provide ad-supported entertainment, MX Player shines in both aspects with equal aplomb.
MX Player is a must-have application for any device that it is compatible with!
Netflix (Paid)
Netflix is the de facto streaming service that established binge-watching as a fashionable pastime. As a result, it appears appropriate that it be included in the list of Android TV applications. The majority of us are familiar with Netflix and what it does.
Many people are unaware that it is one of the top video streaming services in the world, serving 190 different countries. Our Saturday movie viewing experience on our phones and tablets is enhanced thanks to the Android TV app.
Netflix is to video streaming what Spotify is to music, as someone has noted somewhat rightly. And this is exactly what Netflix’s reputation is now, thanks to its excellent original material and the never-ending list of movies that are being added every day to its library of titles!
Google Chrome (Free)
My confusion is as to why web browsers do not come pre-installed on their respective operating systems. You might wonder why you’d need a browser on a smart TV in the first place.
For starters, you can do a lot more with your Android TV than you could before. You may use it to browse the web, get additional information, and perform all of the functions you usually perform on your phone, but on a much larger screen!
I work on my laptop screen via a projector and get some things done. Having the additional screen real estate makes a significant impact on my workflow.
If you decide to purchase, you will need to sideload Google Chrome onto your Android TV because it is not currently accessible in the Android TV Play Store.
Plex: Stream Free Movies & Watch Live TV Shows Now
Many people feel that Plex isn’t as comparable to Kodi as it should be, yet Plex is nonetheless a powerful media center application.
Plex’s strength is in its user interface, which is intuitive and straightforward to use — everything works. But first and foremost, you’ll need to learn how to use the software.
Plex requires setting up a Plex server on another computer that your Android TV can access over WiFi to function.
After you’ve completed the setup, you’ll be able to playback any media file stored on your Plex server directly on your Android television. This eliminates the need to transfer files over a network without the use of cables.
Spotify (Free & Paid)
Spotify is one of the most popular music streaming services available today. Even though I have a free subscription to Apple Music, it is the best music app, in my opinion.
Spotify works its magic on each device that you put it on, and with the Android TV app, the magic grows even more, as does the number of songs available to stream.
Spotify is mainly a free music player, but if you don’t want to be bothered by annoying advertisements, you may upgrade to the premium tier.
One of my favorite features is that you can use a single account on various devices. Spotify is a fantastic app for your Android TV, and it is free.
Kodi
Kodi is widely regarded as the most capable media server application available today.
With Kodi, you have complete control over all your media, which can be accessed anywhere. The fact that there are so many add-ons to this app is the most pleasing aspect of it.
With the add-ons mentioned above, you can enhance your Kodi experience and enjoy your entertainment in whatever way you choose.
Kodi is a streaming media player designed for individuals who want it all.
SLING: Live TV, Shows & Movies (FREE & PAID)
Sling is a fantastic app that allows access to a wide variety of live television channels.
Among the topics covered are news – both national and international – sports, lifestyle, and entertainment, among other things.
It is impossible to go wrong with SlingTV when looking for a reliable cable alternative.
BBC, CNBC, ESPEN, NFL, The Food Network, and other well-known networks are among the many channels available through SlingTV.
Even though the app is free to download, you will be required to pay for the Live TV subscription. If you want to watch dedicated channels on your Android TV, that is a reasonable fee to pay.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video and the downloads for Android TVs are slowly but steadily gaining on Netflix in terms of popularity.
Amazon Originals are a fantastic source of entertainment for people of all ages and interests.
There is something for everyone, whether it’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Boys, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Family Man, or any other television show.
If you have many family members who use the same app, then the multi-user profiles feature will assist you.
Having Amazon Prime Video installed on your new Android TV is a must-have feature.
File Commander
ES File Explorer is an application that will assist you in managing your Android television.
File Explorer is a self-explanatory name for a program that does exactly what it says. You can easily navigate through the files on your Android TV without any difficulty.
Be aware, though, that because this software is not available on the Google Play Store, you’ll have to sideload it onto your Android TV device instead.
However, once you’ve experienced the advantages of this software, you won’t be sorry you took the chance. This is an outstanding application.
Twitch
Gamers gather at one place! There is no glitch on Twitch at this time.
If you are a gamer who enjoys watching others play, you are probably familiar with Twitch.
Twitch is a video streaming platform where professional and amateur gamers demonstrate their skills in front of millions of viewers.
Consider what it would be like to see that level of enthusiasm on an Android TV screen. Watching live streams as a recreational activity on a massive screen will enhance your gaming experience.
Google Duo
Google Duo is a fantastic video-calling application that is free to use. It is because of its simplicity that I prefer it over other programs.
The use of Duo on an Android TV enhances the whole experience.
You can use a large screen to video contact your family or hold an office meeting on a giant screen. Make the most of a large screen by doing what is essential.
Now that the application has been officially listed on the Plat Store, you’ll have to do a few clicks to get it up and to run.
However, there is a fault in the software. There will be no shortcut to it on your home screen since you need to access it using either the Settings app or the Sideload Launcher app.
Disney+
Disney+ may have arrived a little late to the party, but it has come with a bang!
Get unlimited access to entertainment from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and National Geographic, among other sources. I assure you that you will never be irritated by me.
As a result of the lockout, Disney+ has emerged as one of the several streaming services that can offer unique material, such as Black Widow.
It was reported that Disney’s original series Chernobyl had made headlines and was hailed as one of the year’s top television shows. It won’t be challenging to translate this magic on your Android television.
Install Disney+ on your Android TV, and you’ll never have a dull moment in your entertainment.
HBO Max
Disney+ and HBO Max were both late to the party, and HBO Max was even more so! However, its content has demonstrated that the wait was well worth it.
Whether it’s through streaming original material or selected content from around the world, HBO brings the enjoyment to a whole new level.
On your Android TV, you can watch all of the binge-worthy collections. Keep up with all of the exclusive Max Originals, hit television shows, and blockbuster movies that will make for a fantastic Friday night!
The app allows you to create up to five viewer profiles, each with its unique profile image.
Notifications for Android TV
Notices for Android TV does exactly what its name implies: it delivers notifications from your mobile device to the screen of your Android television.
In fullscreen mode, you may use the app to navigate through all of your notifications on your Android television.
In addition, it allows you to customize the settings for each application on your system independently. Additionally, the graphics and the application logo are delivered by the app and the contents of the notifications.
It’s a convenient app that will save you a lot of time.
HULU
Hulu does a fantastic job of providing on-demand and lives television programming.
If you live in the United States, there is no better Android TV service than Hulu+. The software is simple to use and contains all of the entertainment you could ever desire.
It is widely regarded as one of the best-designed Android TV applications available on the market.
As a result, the app is a work of art with intelligence – it provides you with excellent material while also giving a fantastic user experience.
YouTube TV
It’s hard to think of entertainment without thinking of YouTube. Enter a term, and you’ll be sent to a page with relevant videos.
The virtual shoulders of YouTube meet the majority of my entertainment requirements. YouTube material is something I primarily consume to see evaluations of the latest products, movies, and software.
Watch live TV, sports, news, and entertainment, and stay up with all the latest information by searching for it using any keyword.
Without a doubt, this is an excellent application for your Android TV! You can turn off your cable connection and continue to use YouTube for the rest of your life.
As a whole, YouTube TV will be a beneficial application for your Android TV.
Wake On Lan
You recently purchased an Android TV and have been installing applications from this list.
There is a good chance that you have installed Plex or Kodi on your Android TV, in which case it’s safe to presume that your computer is acting as a server for the content.
However, what will happen if and when your Plex server falls asleep while you are trying to watch television?
This is when the Wake On LAN feature comes into play! It allows you to send a signal to your computer over the internet to wake it up. Isn’t it amazing how well this works?
Tasker and other similar software allow users to automate Wake On LAN, which sends signals to your computer when the machine is awake.
Take note that you’ll require substantial computer configuration to enable Wake on LAN (WOL) instructions, which your internet connection should be able to send and receive.
TVUsage
The screen on time feature on our smartphones and iPads is a terrific way to track how much time we have spent on our devices.
What about televisions, on the other hand?
With the proliferation of television channels, it has become more challenging to control one’s television addiction.
You may establish screen time limits and monitor your children’s viewing habits with TVUsage, parental control software for Android TV.
The app is a time-saver for children and a blessing in disguise for their parents.
Now you can relax and enjoy your afternoon nap, secure in the knowledge that your child will not be able to circumvent the rules you have established!
Many Live TV Apps
Live TV applications have become increasingly popular, and most of them may be accessed on an Android TV.
Whether it’s YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu TV, or another streaming service,
Some particular networks – E!, Bravo, Oxygen, SYFY, USA, and so on – breathe life into live TV apps that you can use on your Android TV to watch live television shows.
If you are a fan of real-time information, then these apps will not disappoint you.
Even if the costs vary depending on the channel, there is enough programming to keep you entertained for a lifetime.
Installing several live TV applications on your Android TV will enhance your viewing experience.
FAQs
What is the best app for Android TV, in your opinion?
All of the apps listed above are among the best available for your Android TV. The ES File Explorer is my personal favorite because it allows you to control the storage and files on your television.
Is it true that all Android apps operate with Android TV?
Because of optimization, not all Android apps are compatible with Android TV. You may test yourself by sideloading apps and running them on your television. If they are successfully installed, you are good to go!
Is Android TV capable of running all Android applications?
Android TV is not capable of running all Android applications. You will only be able to see apps that are compatible with your TV.
Is it possible to install Google Meet on an Android TV?
Unfortunately, Google Meet isn’t available for Android TV at the time of publication. Casting Meet to your Chromecast, Chromecast built-in TV, or Nest Miracast device is an option you have available.
What is the best way to watch local channels on my Android TV?
To watch local channels on your Android TV, follow the procedures outlined in the following section:
- Go to the home screen of your Android TV by pressing the home button.
- Install the ‘Live Channels’ application from the Google Play Store.
- Scroll all the way down to the Apps section.
- Choose the ‘Live Channels’ application from the list.
- Choose the source from which you wish to load channels. e.g.
- After you’ve loaded all of the channels you want, hit the ‘Done’ button.
These are the 21 top Android TV applications you should download and use in 2021.
There are a variety of free and premium apps available, so you can pick and choose depending on the type of software you are seeking.
After a hard day at work, you may unwind by downloading some of the most excellent Android TV apps available for download.
The apps are still enjoyable, even though the collection is a little lacking compared to Android smartphones’ offerings.
Do you have any recommendations for handy apps that our readers would enjoy? Other applications that you would want to see on Android TV are listed below. Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.
