Android TV, Google TV and “Android boxes”: the difference
- Android TV / Google TV is Google’s TV operating system. It is built into many Sony, TCL, Hisense and Philips TVs, and runs on devices like the Google TV Streamer and Nvidia Shield. Google TV is the newer interface on top of Android TV.
- “Android box” often means an unbranded box running a phone version of Android. These are hit and miss. Some never receive security updates, and some are sold “fully loaded” with illegal add-ons.
For IPTV, a Google-certified Android TV or Google TV device is the safe choice. You get the Play Store, regular updates and a remote designed for TV.
Choosing an Android TV box for IPTV
| Device | Why choose it |
|---|---|
| Nvidia Shield TV / Shield TV Pro | The most powerful option, with an Ethernet port and excellent 4K upscaling |
| Google TV Streamer | Simple, current hardware with an Ethernet port |
| TV with Google TV built in | Nothing extra to buy |
| Unbranded “Android box” | Avoid unless it is Google-certified and updated |
Look for at least 2 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage, 4K HDR output if your TV supports it, and ideally an Ethernet port.
Best IPTV apps on Android TV
- TiviMate: the favourite for its cable-style TV guide. Free to try, with a paid premium tier.
- IPTV Smarters Pro: free, simple and works with Xtream Codes and M3U.
- Televizo and Purple Player: light, free alternatives.
Apps that are not on Google Play can be installed with the Downloader app, as on a Fire TV Stick. Only ever download from the developer’s official source. See Downloader codes.
Setup in brief
- Install your chosen player from Google Play, or via Downloader.
- Open it and choose Xtream Codes login, or add your M3U link.
- Enter the details from your welcome message and wait for channels and the TV guide to load.
Detailed steps: Xtream Codes login, M3U playlists and EPG setup. If the app crashes or will not load, see IPTV Smarters not working.