Android Tv vs. Smart Tv — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on January 10, 2024
Android TV is a smart TV platform powered by Android OS, offering Google services. Smart TV refers broadly to any TV with internet capabilities and built-in apps.
Difference Between Android Tv and Smart Tv
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Android TV is a specific type of Smart TV that runs on Google's Android operating system, similar to what is used on many smartphones. It provides a user interface designed for TVs, allowing users to download apps from the Google Play Store, use Google Assistant, and cast content from their devices via Google Cast. The platform often includes a variety of Google services and supports third-party app integrations.
Smart TVs, on the other hand, encompass a wide range of televisions that can connect to the internet and run apps, but they do not specifically require the Android operating system to function. They may use different operating systems, like Samsung's Tizen or LG's webOS, which provide their own app stores and features distinct from the Android ecosystem.
Each Android TV is a Smart TV, but not all Smart TVs are Android TVs. Android TVs boast a consistent user interface across different hardware, courtesy of Google, and typically offer a broad app selection through the Play Store. They're built with Google's ecosystem in mind, which may appeal to users already invested in that environment.
Smart TVs may come with proprietary interfaces unique to each manufacturer, potentially offering a more curated and branded experience. These TVs can have exclusive features, apps, or services not found on Android TV, which can be a deciding factor for brand loyal customers or those seeking particular functionalities.
While Android TV is designed to provide a flexible and customizable smart TV experience with Google integration, Smart TVs focus on a more diverse market, with various manufacturers providing their own smart platforms that may cater better to certain regions, services, or user preferences, often with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
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Comparison Chart
Operating System
Runs on Android OS.
Can run on various OS like Tizen, webOS, Roku OS, etc.
App Ecosystem
Access to Google Play Store.
Access to different app stores, depending on the OS.
Voice Assistant
Integrates with Google Assistant.
May integrate with various assistants like Alexa or Bixby.
Content Casting
Supports Google Cast.
Casting abilities vary by platform and manufacturer.
Manufacturer
Offered by multiple manufacturers.
Offered by multiple manufacturers, often with proprietary OS.
Customization
Highly customizable interface and settings.
Customization varies by OS and manufacturer.
Connectivity
Designed with Google ecosystem integration (e.g., Android apps).
Connectivity options are tailored to the TV's operating system.
Compare with Definitions
Android Tv
Android TV features voice control with Google Assistant.
I found the latest movie just by asking my Android TV.
Smart Tv
Smart TV allows for web browsing and social media integration.
I browsed the latest news headlines on my Smart TV this morning.
Android Tv
Android TV enables content casting from mobile devices.
I cast my vacation photos to my Android TV during the family reunion.
Smart Tv
Smart TV refers to any television capable of internet connectivity and app functionality.
Our Smart TV has all the streaming services we love.
Android Tv
Android TV is customizable with a variety of wallpapers and themes.
I personalized my Android TV's home screen to match my room's décor.
Smart Tv
Smart TV usually includes a customizable home screen.
I arranged all my favorite apps on my Smart TV's home screen.
Android Tv
Android TV is a Google-powered platform for smart TVs and streaming boxes.
My Android TV lets me play Android games on a big screen.
Smart Tv
Smart TV often has built-in streaming services.
I watch my favorite shows through the apps on my Smart TV.
Android Tv
Android TV supports apps from the Google Play Store.
I downloaded a workout app directly to my Android TV.
Smart Tv
Smart TV may offer proprietary features unique to the manufacturer.
The picture-in-picture feature on our Smart TV is perfect for sports games.
Common Curiosities
Are all Android TVs Smart TVs?
Yes, all Android TVs are considered Smart TVs because they can connect to the internet and run apps.
What is a Smart TV?
A Smart TV is a television set with integrated internet capabilities, allowing you to stream media, browse the internet, and use apps.
Can you use Android apps on Smart TV?
Yes, on Android TV you can use Android apps; other Smart TVs may have their own specific apps and not support Android apps.
Can Android TV work with iOS devices?
Yes, Android TV can work with iOS devices, mainly through third-party apps or casting features.
What is Android TV?
Android TV is a platform that turns your TV into a smart device with access to streaming services, apps, and games from the Google Play Store.
Do all Smart TVs run on Android?
No, not all Smart TVs run on Android; many have different operating systems like Tizen, webOS, or Roku OS.
Do Smart TVs have Google Assistant?
Some Smart TVs come with Google Assistant, especially Android TVs, while others may support different voice assistants.
Is Netflix available on Android TV and other Smart TVs?
Netflix is available on both Android TV and most other Smart TVs as a downloadable app.
Can Android TV access content from Amazon Prime or Hulu?
Yes, Android TV can access content from Amazon Prime, Hulu, and other streaming services through their respective apps.
Are software updates necessary for Android TV and Smart TVs?
Yes, software updates are important for both to ensure the latest features and security patches.
Do I need a Google account to use Android TV?
Yes, a Google account is usually required to fully utilize an Android TV for downloading apps and using Google services.
What is the main advantage of Android TV over other Smart TVs?
The main advantage of Android TV is its integration with the Google ecosystem and access to a wide range of apps from the Play Store.
Can Android TV and Smart TVs play offline media?
Yes, both Android TV and Smart TVs can play offline media from USB drives or home networks.
How do you install apps on Smart TVs?
On Android TV, you install apps through the Google Play Store, while other Smart TVs have their own app store or content library.
Can Smart TVs browse the internet?
Most Smart TVs, including Android TV, have web browsers that allow for internet browsing.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
