Android TV vs Google TV: What Is the Difference?

Google TV and Android TV look similar, but they are different versions of the same platform — and it matters when you are choosing a box for IPTV.

The short version

Android TV is the older operating system. Google TV is the newer interface built on top of it, with a more content-focused home screen and better recommendations.

What is different

• Home screen — Google TV shows suggested content across apps; Android TV is more app-centric.
• Interface — Google TV is smoother and more modern; Android TV is plainer but familiar.
• App support — both run the same Play Store apps, so your IPTV player works on either.

Which is better for IPTV?

Both are fine. Google TV is nicer to live with day to day; Android TV works on more older and budget hardware. For IPTV specifically, the app and the service matter more than the OS version.

The practical rule

Buy on specs — RAM, storage and an Ethernet port — not on whether the box says Android TV or Google TV. Both will run your player.