Google has announced the release of its Android TV app for Apple's iOS. This news may come as a bit of a surprise considering that Apple and Google are archrivals, but it may not be a bad thing after all.
In June 2014, Google released the Android TV, a smart TV platform that is a successor to Google TV. The Android TV can be built into separate digital media players as well as TVs, and has access to online streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix. It also allows users to download Android apps through the Google Play Store.
In addition, the voice search feature of Android TV makes searching quick and easy for users. The interface can be navigated with the use of a remote control, game controller or by downloading the Android mobile app.
However, the Android TV has not grabbed a lot of traction since its launch. Google's other product, the Google Chromecast, did better in sales compared to the Android TV, as the tiny dongle saw 20 million units sold to date.
Now, Android TV is hoping to expand its market and reach out to the Apple fan base by releasing the Android TV app for iOS. By simply downloading the app, Apple users can now use their iPhones or iPads to control the Android TV. In order to connect, users are required to be on the same Wi-Fi network as the smart TV.
The Android TV app for iOS is now available as a free download and has the same features present in Android OS, including the directional pad, which appears in the center of the display screen, as well as an easily accessible Play/Pause button. Apple fans, however, will have to get used to speaking to Google Now instead of Siri to launch voice commands.
The future of smart TV looks very promising. According to digital research company eMarketer, the number of connected TV audience is expected to rapidly increase as the prices of smart TVs continuously drop. Moreover, companies like Apple, Google and Amazon are investing and continuously developing the interface. In the U.S. alone, it is projected that smart TVs will reach more than 100 million users come 2017.
