Android TV is a powerful platform for smart TVs, projectors, and home theater setups. While Google doesn’t always promote it extensively, there are numerous Android TV apps that can enhance your experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top Android TV apps, discussing their features, pros and cons, and why you should consider them for your Android TV device.
1. TVBro (Best Browser for Android TV)
Description: TVBro is a browser designed specifically for Android TV, making web browsing easy without the need for additional peripherals like a mouse or keyboard.
Pros:
- Simplified browsing experience on a large screen.
- Inbuilt cursor support for precise navigation.
- Quick links and home screen for faster navigation.
Cons:
- Basic user interface.
- Limited visual appeal compared to desktop browsers.
Summary: TVBro is the go-to browser for Android TV users who want a hassle-free web browsing experience. It offers essential features without the need for extra accessories.
2. Send Files to TV (Best File Transfer App for Android TV)
Description: Send Files to TV simplifies the process of transferring files between your Android TV and your smartphone or tablet over your local network.
Pros:
- Eliminates the need for cables and external drives.
- Supports a wide range of file types.
- Easy-to-use interface.
Cons:
- Limited functionality beyond file transfer.
Summary: If you frequently transfer files between devices, Send Files to TV is a time-saving solution that enhances convenience and efficiency.
3. Stremio (Best App for Cord Cutters on Android TV)
Description: Stremio is a versatile media center that helps users discover, manage, and stream content from various services, including previews and trailers.
Pros:
- Simplifies content discovery across multiple streaming platforms.
- Supports add-ons, including IPTV plugins.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- May not have access to all streaming services.
Summary: Stremio is a valuable tool for cord cutters who want a centralized hub for exploring and accessing content from various sources.
4. AirScreen (Best Way to Share iPhone Screen on Android TV)
Description: AirScreen allows users to cast their iOS device screens to Android TV without the need for additional hardware like an Apple TV.
Pros:
- Seamless screen mirroring for iOS devices.
- Supports 4K UHD video.
- No need to install an app on iOS devices.
Cons:
- Primarily beneficial for iOS users.
Summary: AirScreen is an essential app for iOS users who want to mirror their device screens on Android TV, making it a versatile solution for sharing content.
5. FLauncher (Best Third-Party Launcher for Android TV)
Description: FLauncher is an open-source launcher for Android TV that offers a clean and customizable user interface.
Pros:
- Provides a simple and familiar tile layout.
- Allows on-device wallpaper customization.
- Enables the creation of app categories.
Cons:
- May not be as integrated as the default Android TV launcher.
Summary: FLauncher is an excellent choice for Android TV users seeking a more tailored and organized home screen experience.
6. Pluto TV (Best Option for Free TV-Like Streaming on Android TV)
Description: Pluto TV is a free streaming service offering a wide range of live broadcasting channels and on-demand content.
Pros:
- Large selection of free channels.
- Accessible on Android TV.
- Suitable for families with kids.
Cons:
- Ad-supported content.
Summary: Pluto TV is a fantastic choice for users who want a TV-like streaming experience with a variety of channels and content, all without a subscription fee.
7. MX Player (Best All-in-One Media Player for Android TV)
Description: MX Player is a versatile media player capable of handling a wide range of video file formats.
Pros:
- Supports various video codecs.
- User-friendly interface.
- Hardware acceleration for smooth playback.
Cons:
- Limited additional features compared to some other media players.
Summary: MX Player is a reliable choice for Android TV users looking for a media player that can handle diverse video formats with ease.
8. Button Mapper (Best Remote Control Customization Tool for Android TV)
Description: Button Mapper allows users to customize the functions of physical remote control buttons on Android TV.
Pros:
- Personalize remote control functions.
- Create custom actions for button presses.
- Enhanced control over the TV experience.
Cons:
- Requires a one-time purchase for advanced features.
Summary: Button Mapper is a valuable tool for Android TV users who want to tailor their remote control to suit their preferences, providing more convenience and control.
9. Nvidia GeForce NOW (Best Cloud Gaming App for Android TV)
Description: Nvidia GeForce NOW is a cloud gaming service that allows users to stream high-end games to their Android TV devices.
Pros:
- Access to a wide selection of PC games.
- Play games in up to 4K resolution.
- No need for a high-end gaming console or PC.
Cons:
- Limited free tier with session time restrictions.
Summary: Nvidia GeForce NOW is an excellent choice for gamers who want to enjoy console-quality gaming on their Android TV without the need for specialized hardware.
10. RetroArch (Best Way to Play Classic Console Games on Android TV)
Description: RetroArch is an emulator that bundles popular emulators into one package, allowing users to play classic console games on their Android TV.
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of retro gaming platforms.
- Compatibility with Bluetooth controllers and gamepads.
- Provides an authentic gaming experience.
Cons:
- Requires ROM files to play games.
Summary: RetroArch is a must-have app for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering the ability to play classic console games on Android TV with ease.
Bonus Apps for Android TV
In addition to the top 10 apps listed above, here are some bonus categories of apps you might find useful:
Best Free Anime Apps for Android TV
- Crunchyroll
- Funimation
- VRV
Best Apps for Rooted or Jailbroken Android TV
- Magisk Manager
- Lucky Patcher
- Xposed Framework
Best IPTV Apps for Android TV
- IPTV Smarters Pro
- Perfect Player
- TiviMate
Best Entertainment Apps for Android TV
- Netflix
- Disney+
- Hulu
Best Fitness Apps for Android TV
- FitOn
- Daily Workouts
- 7 Minute Workout
Best Apps for Live Football
- CBS Sports
- fuboTV
- ESPN
Best News Apps for Android TV
- BBC News
- CNN
- Al Jazeera
Best Android TV Keyboard Apps
- CetusPlay
- Android TV Remote Control
- Remote Mouse
Best Karaoke Apps for Android TV
- Sing Karaoke by StarMaker
- Karaoke Sing & Record
- Red Karaoke Sing & Record
Best Android TV Launcher Apps
- HALauncher
- Sideload Launcher
- ATV Launcher
Best Android TV Media Player Apps
- VLC for Android
- MX Player
- Kodi
Best Apps to Sideload on Android TV
- AppToUSB
- APKTime
- Send Files to TV
Best Free OTT (Over-the-Top) Apps for Android TV
- Tubi
- Crackle
- Pluto TV
Best Free Offline and Online TV Apps for Android
- YouTube TV
- Philo
- Sling TV
Android TV offers a diverse range of apps to enhance your home entertainment experience. Whether you’re looking for web browsing, file transfer, streaming, gaming, or customization, these top 10 Android TV apps cover a wide spectrum of needs.
Explore these apps and tailor your Android TV to your preferences for a truly immersive entertainment experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h4″ question-0=”What Apps Are Available on Android TV?” answer-0=”The availability of apps may vary by region and device. However, Android TV supports a wide range of apps, including streaming, entertainment, and utility apps. You can explore the Google Play Store on your Android TV to discover and install new apps.” image-0=”” headline-1=”h4″ question-1=”What Are Useful Apps for Android TV?” answer-1=”Useful apps for Android TV include streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, entertainment apps like YouTube, gaming apps, web browsers, and customization apps to personalize your TV experience.” image-1=”” headline-2=”h4″ question-2=”Can I Get Apps Not Available on Android TV?” answer-2=”Yes, you can sideload apps that are not available on the official Android TV app store. This process allows you to install apps from external sources, expanding the app selection on your device.” image-2=”” headline-3=”h4″ question-3=”What Are the Best Free TV Apps for Android?” answer-3=”The best free TV apps for Android TV include Pluto TV, Tubi, Crackle, and Plex. These apps offer a wide range of free content, including movies, TV shows, and live TV channels.” image-3=”” headline-4=”h4″ question-4=”How Can I Customize My Android TV?” answer-4=”You can customize your Android TV by using launcher apps, wallpaper apps, and widgets to personalize the interface and make it suit your preferences and style.” image-4=”” count=”5″ html=”true” css_class=””]