Google TV, the search giant’s latest attempt at TV software, will include a new “Basic TV” mode that pulls out the smart features of a TV in favor of easy access to live TV and HDMI inputs. 9to5Google reports. This is a potential blessing for anyone who has ever wanted to dim their smart TV because they prefer an external streamer or because they value privacy.
Google TV debuts on the new Chromecast, where it offers a new interface built on Google’s existing Android TV software, but will soon be offered as built – in software for TCL and Sony’s upcoming TVs.
According to 9to5Google, you can select the “Basic TV” mode in the setting. This removes the operating system’s apps, content recommendations, and Google Assistant support. It is possible to return to the default interface at any time, but the basic mode can only be done with the setting. Unfortunately, it is unclear exactly what the interface will eventually look like, given the developer-oriented ADT-3 dongle 9to5Google tested, the mode does not have the required live TV or HDMI hardware. We also do not know how basic mode will affect data collection.
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A Google spokesperson confirmed 9to5Google that the mode is specifically a feature of Google TV, rather than Android TV 12.
There are many reasons why people want to remove all the cleverness of a smart TV. Many users rely on set-top boxes from Apple, Roku or Amazon for their streaming content, and a duplicate interface built into their TV just gets in the way. Others may want to continue using a TV long after developers no longer support software and programs, and then it comes in handy to be able to remove it to its essential performance. Or maybe you do not like the idea of using a smart TV, given their history to track everything you watch.