Google TV Streamer and Chromecast units within the UK have gained a brand new “Channels” tab to shortly launch into regional broadcast streaming providers reminiscent of BBC, ITV, and extra.
As Ben Moxham on Threads leveled out to us, the “Channels” panel is now out there on units operating Google TV, such because the Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV. It’s not clear if different Google TV units but have the choice however we’ve been in a position to affirm on a number of first-party streaming dongles.
As a result of lack of “Reside Channels” and “Reside” tab features on Google TV and Android TV units within the UK, it doesn’t work like a tuner. As a substitute, this part solely accommodates channels from throughout the supported streaming functions you’ve gotten put in in your system.
As a result of BBC iPlayer continues to be not but out there on the Google TV Streamer, you might not have the choice on the most recent system. On Chromecast, the “Channels” part will host BBC, ITV, STV, UTV, Actually, Discovery, and different free-to-air broadcast providers we’ve but to check. If the app is on the market however not put in in your system, clicking will convey up the floating Play Retailer installer. It’s additionally price noting that Channel 4 isn’t out there because the service continues to be not out there on Android TV.
If the app is put in in your Chromecast or Google TV Streamer and visual throughout the “Channels” part, clicking will load into the livestreaming channel. In our testing, ITV X will launch to the TV Information part and requires an additional click on. BBC iPlayer merely opens straight into the channel seamlessly. You possibly can see how this works beneath:
One other notable facet is that you should have an account earlier than the short launch buttons will open the content material. In any other case, you’ll hit a login display throughout the functions. The present choice additionally omits various different UK TV channels with a selected concentrate on way of life content material and lack of stories at this stage.
This new “Channel” part is probably going a method to improve the Google TV expertise for cordcutters that lack an aerial or favor to view content material streamed over an web connection. It additionally assist make up for the dearth of true “Reside channel” assist that’s sorely lacking outdoors of the US. We’re hopeful that the supported apps will enhance and permit for additional integration for providers like Plex and extra.
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