Watching TV no longer depends on traditional streaming, as Apple and Google have introduced TVs into our living rooms. A significant difference between the two is, the technology we used. Knowing the difference between both of them will help you to decide Apple TV vs Google TV which one is better as per your needs.
With Apple TV, you can use a set-top box to enhance the viewing experience by filling the gap. You plug the Apple TV into your TV using HDMI, change the input to Apple TV, and boom! You can access web video apps on your lovely big TV screen. Google TV is the software used by many of the company’s affiliates. Apple TV only offers one type of set-top box, but with Google TV, you can choose from different set-top boxes like Logitech’s Review and DirecTV integration, like the one seen on Sony’s Internet TV.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the difference between Google & Apple TV. So, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What Is Google TV?
Google TV is an innovative yet cost-effective operating system from Google co-developed by Intel, Sony, and Logitech. It was launched in October 2010. However, Google TV is a smart TV experience built directly into select TVs or streaming devices, so there’s no additional cost. The only Chromecast devices with access to the built-in Google TV experience are “Chromecast with Google TV” devices. Google TV is powered by an underlying operating system called Android TV OS.
What is Apple TV
The Apple TV 4K is a smart home hub, enabling you to automate and get access to everything connected to your home. In simple term, it is like a umbrella for Apple’s living room strategy. It consists of hardware, software, and a streaming service, all named “Apple TV”. Or perhaps you’re talking about the Apple TV app, which is available not only on the Apple TV but on other Apple products as well. This is everything you need to know about Apple TV, such as- Hardware, software and streaming service.
Comparison: Apple TV vs. Google TV
Apple TVs: Complete History
Apple Inc. developed and markets the Apple TV, a portable console and digital media player. It includes network application hardware that outputs audio and video from received media files to a television or other external display. This TV was unveiled in 2006 with the name iTV. However, since there was another TV station with the rights to that name, it was changed to Apple TV. It started with the first generation, which had a 40GB HDD.
After a few years, Apple Inc. released a 160GB HDD option, which has progressively improved over the years as each generation is an improvement from the previous generation. for example, when Apple Inc. The second model was introduced in 2010, becoming HDMI-compliant and the first model to run on a version of iOS. 8GB of internal flash storage replaced the HDD, so the TV was used to stream content and supported 720p output. Later in March 2012, the third generation was released – it has an A5 chip that supports 1080p output. Its set box works till 2021 and streams Netflix etc.
What Does Apple TV Serve You?
- Easy accessibility of Apple iTunes and the ability to download content
- It supports HDMI
- Ability to share pictures through flicker.com
- It doesn’t support Hula and Netflix
- It has a single micro-USB port
- You can watch YouTube videos on TV.
Google TV- History
Google TV has built on the foundation of android TV. The best thing is that, they support thousands and thousands of apps. It’s had great features, which is flexible. You can do different activities like using USB-C hubs that you cannot do on Apple TV.
What Does Google TV Serve You?
- Easy access to web TV free of charge
- It has a built Google Chrome browser.
- You can access google maps
- You can use the set-top box as a DVR
- While watching TV, you can open an app and browse
- You can use your phone(s) as a remote control
- It has voice control
- It supports HDMI
- You can access third-party apps using Google TV
Conclusion
Apple TV vs Google TV, advantages and disadvantages shed light on what you need to consider when deciding which TV to buy, but based on research, advantages, disadvantages, usability, and versatility, Google TV is the ideal choice. There are a few reasons why Apple users, in particular, would spend more on the Apple TV 4K. The ability to play Apple Arcade games on the big screen is a huge bonus if you want to make the most of Apple’s premium services, and the inclusion of spatial audio is also a big bonus for Apple AirPods Pro and AirPods Max owners. It’s also hard to argue with the seamlessly fast performance. But if you’re just an iPhone user and not too involved in the ecosystem, the Chromecast with Google TV is a great value option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Ans: Google TV and Apple TV differ primarily in their ecosystems and content integration. Google TV is built on the Android TV platform, offering a more open system that integrates with various streaming services and supports Google Assistant. On the other hand, Apple TV is tightly integrated into the Apple ecosystem, emphasizing seamless connectivity with other Apple devices and services. The choice depends on whether you prefer a more open, versatile platform (Google TV) or a closely-knit Apple ecosystem (Apple TV).
Ans: In most cases, popular streaming apps are available on both Google TV and Apple TV. However, the availability of specific apps may vary slightly between the two platforms. While major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video are accessible on both devices, some exclusive apps or features may be platform-specific. It’s advisable to check the app store for each platform to ensure your preferred apps are available before making a decision.
Ans: Both Google TV and Apple TV offer voice control features, but they operate through different virtual assistants. Google TV utilizes Google Assistant, allowing users to search for content, control playback, and even control smart home devices using voice commands. Apple TV, on the other hand, employs Siri for voice control, offering similar functionalities with an emphasis on integration with the broader Apple ecosystem. Users may prefer one over the other based on their familiarity and preferences with Google Assistant or Siri.
Ans: Google TV tends to have better compatibility with a wide range of third-party devices and services due to its open-source Android TV platform. It supports a variety of smart home devices and integrates with different streaming services seamlessly. Apple TV, while offering excellent integration with other Apple devices, may have more limitations when it comes to compatibility with certain third-party devices and services. Consider your existing smart home setup and preferred devices when choosing between the two.
Ans: Both Google TV and Apple TV provide access to popular streaming services and content. However, each platform may have exclusive content or subscription services. For example, Apple TV+ is Apple’s exclusive streaming service with original content. Google TV may have exclusive deals with certain content providers as well. It’s recommended to explore the specific content offerings of each platform to determine if there are exclusive services that align with your entertainment preferences.
