Android TV is the television system Android TV is the operating system used by many TV boxes, such as the Mi Box or NVIDIA Shield, as well as some televisions and similar devices. This operating system allows you to have the best of Android but with features specific to a television, such as voice control, remote control functionality, and a user-friendly interface for easy operation from the comfort of your couch. There are many apps available for Android TV; we'll tell you about the best ones.
There are a lot of apps for Android TV, but some of them are... will improve This guide will significantly enhance your experience using your Smart TV or TV Box. It includes both classic streaming apps that we all know and lesser-known but very useful tools: alternative launchers, file managers, apps for casting content from your mobile device, ad-free YouTube clients, advanced players, emulators, browsers optimized for TV, and much more.
In addition, many of the apps you'll see here are from open source or they have very complete free versions, which is important for those who want to avoid surprises with privacy or intrusive advertising. Some apps are also included that They're not on Google Play and which you will have to install with APK, as well as utilities initially designed for mobile but which work very well on Android TV or Google TV.
If you've just gotten a new TV Box, a Smart TV with Android TV, or even a dongle like Chromecast with Google TV, this list will help you... set up a much more complete system than with the pre-installed applications.
Launchers
If you don't like the default launcher on your TV Box, you might not be happy with its overall performance. A launcher is the app that displays the... starting screen...the icons, shortcuts, and organization of your apps. So the best thing to do is install a launcher yourself and adapt the design to your liking.
With a good launcher you can change the order of apps, hide the ones you don't use, customize the wallpaper, improve the speed of access to your content, and even show apps that Android TV hides because they are not "compatible" with the television. Hide the ones you don't use And organizing folders makes the experience from the couch much easier. There are many options, but we'll recommend some well-established ones for Android TV.
Square Home 3
If you like the operation and aesthetics of Windows in its tablet version (both in its version 8, 8.1 or Windows 10) Square Home 3 It's for you. It will organize your Android TV in a way similar to how Windows works, with rectangular mosaics that you can move, resize, and group.
This type of design is very convenient for the living room because it allows you to quickly identify the apps you use most. In addition, Square Home 3 offers customization options such as adjusting colors, transparencies, icons or backgrounds, so you can give your TV Box a completely different look than the one it came with from the factory without sacrificing fluidity.
Another advantage is that it adapts well to both traditional controllers and controllers with directional panel or even control via keyboard or mouse, which facilitates its use on various devices.
ATV Launcher
Some TV boxes don't allow you to change the wallpaper or customize the home screen much. ATV Launcherapart from having a minimalist interface And very clean, we can bypass this limitation and set our own wallpaper, whether it's a static image or even more creative backgrounds.
ATV Launcher is designed specifically for Android TV, so everything is conveniently controlled with the remote. You can organize rows of apps, compatible widgets, and shortcuts to advanced settings. It's ideal if you want a more "pure" experience, without automatic recommendations or screen-filling content carousels.
Another interesting feature is that it allows you to display installed applications that the system hides because they are considered only suitable for mobile, which is very useful if you use apps adapted through sideloading.
Sideload launcher
This is especially important, and it is that Sideload launcher It's not just a launcherIt also allows us to add a very important feature for Smart TV: being able to quickly see and open all those applications that you have installed via APK or that, even though they are on Google Play, are not adapted to Android TV.
Android TV hides many apps because they aren't designed for remote control, but that doesn't mean they can't work. With Sideload Launcher, you can. View and use all those apps Both APK files and apps from the Play Store are available. This doesn't mean they'll work perfectly with the controller, but we can try them out, and some might even work without problems.
Combined with a good file explorer and a tool to send APKs from your mobile device, Sideload Launcher becomes a key piece for advanced users who want to get the most out of their TV Box.
Kodi
Leaving aside launchers, we can't talk about the best Android TV apps without mentioning Kodi be on that list.
Kodi is an application that will allow us to create our own multimedia center on your TV Box. It will allow you to watch television and listen to the radio if you configure it correctly. It allows you to install add-ons to be able to integrate other apps and services such as YouTube and similar, access streaming content, IPTV, podcasts or video on demand services through external plugins.
And of course, you'll be able to play your videos, photos or music Files can be stored on USB drives, external hard drives, network-attached storage (NAS) servers, or even the device's own memory. It supports almost any video and audio format, making it perfect if you have a diverse multimedia collection.
Another great advantage of Kodi is that it's very useful when your TV or TV Box has little internal storageWith a single program, you can centralize access to many platforms and content, without installing the official application for each service separately. This saves space and simplifies system management.
For advanced users, Kodi also allows configuration custom skins, completely change the appearance, add parental controls, create user profiles, integrate program guides (EPG), or even use it as a PVR client to record TV programs.
Puffin tv
If you want to be able to surf the Internet with a browser that makes things easy for you to navigate with your TV Box, Puffin tv It will allow you to do it more easily. It's a browser that adapts its interface for Android TVmaking it much easier to navigate using the remote control.
Unlike browsers designed for mobile devices, everything here is designed for viewing from a distance and controlled with directional buttons. The address bar, shortcuts, and menus are large and clear, so you don't need to connect a mouse to navigate frequently used pages.
It's especially useful if you want to access services that don't yet have an official Android TV app, browser-compatible streaming sites, or web tools you use daily on your computer.
CetusPlay
But if you want to use your usual browser, you can use a mouse ... Or better yet ... use your phone as a mouseNo, you won't have to slide your phone across the table. We're talking about using the touchscreen the same way you would use a laptop's touchpad.
We can do that with CetusPlay...an app that will allow us to do exactly this, so we can relax on the sofa while browsing with our phone as if it were a wireless touch panel.
In addition to touchpad mode, CetusPlay typically offers extra features such as remote control, virtual keyboards for comfortable typing, quick launch of apps installed on the TV, and, in some cases, content streaming from your mobile device to the television. All of this greatly reduces the frustration of entering passwords or long URLs with a traditional remote.
Nostalgia.NES
If you're a regular gamer, you'll surely love one of the most entertaining apps for Android TV. Nostalgia.NES It allows you to emulate games from the NES, Nintendo's console from the 80s.
With this emulator, you can load your own ROMs and enjoy classic titles on the big screen in your living room, using a Bluetooth controller or even some compatible USB controllers. The emulator offers modern features such as quick save, game loading, graphic filters and control settings to tailor the experience to your liking.
The games are not included with the emulator, but you can easily find them online. It's important to remember that you must comply with your country's laws and only use backup copies of games that you legally own.
steam link
Continuing with video games but now in a more modern way, if you are a gamer and play on PC, this app is for you. Steam Link It's an application that will allow you to do Stream your Steam games Connect it to your Android TV box or Smart TV. This way, with your controller or keyboard and mouse connected, you can play from your living room, even if your PC isn't located there.
The application connects to your computer via your local network and sends video and audio to the TV, while receiving input from the remote or keyboard connected to the TV. If you have a fast network, the experience is very similar to playing directly on your PC, but with the convenience of a big screen.
Steam Link is also compatible with various Bluetooth controllers and allows you to adjust the image quality and frame rate to match your network speed, preventing image lag or interruptions.
Airscreen
And lastly, but no less importantly within this section, AirscreenThis is one of the Android TV apps that will allow us to transfer files and mirror screen to our television from any device that has one of the following protocols: AirPlay, Google Cast, Miracast, or DLNA. That is, a large number of available and compatible devices.
This way, you can send content almost instantly to your Android TV device, whether it's video, audio, photos, or the full screen of a phone, tablet, or computer. It's especially useful if your TV doesn't have all these technologies built-in or if you want finer control over the transmission quality.
In addition, AirScreen offers encrypted transmissionThis ensures that the content travels securely across the network, which is useful when sharing private files or presentations and you want to prevent unauthorized access.
Netflix, HBO Spain, Primer Video, Disney +, Rakuten and other video on demand services
Netflix It is undoubtedly one of the most popular streaming services in the world. Its integration with Chromecast and Android TV is seamless, and it even allows you to skip the intro and episode summaries. It works as well as you'd expect, with user profiles, customized lists and support for different image qualities depending on your plan.
The same can be said of HBO Spain, Rakuten TV, Disney + o Prime Video, direct rivals in the sector that also have an official Android TV app, support for Full HD and 4K, and compatibility with advanced image formats such as HDR and surround sound systems such as Dolby Atmos, depending on the content and device.
These platforms allow you to turn your TV Box into a complete home theater center, with immediate access to series, movies, documentaries, and children's content. Many also integrate features such as "Continue Watching" listsRecommendations based on your viewing history or offline downloads on your mobile device to complement the experience on other devices.
On Android TV, they are all usually integrated with the system of voice search from Google, so you can quickly find a title by saying its name into the controller's microphone.
Twitch: the gaming sector also has its place
Twitch It remains undefeated as one of the leading game streaming services while other rivals try to catch up. On Android TV, you can enjoy Twitch on your television without any problems. It's a great tool for following the live streams from content creators platform favorites, including video games, talks, music, and other formats.
The Android TV app allows large screen chatExplore recommended channels and quickly switch between different live streams using just your controller. If you enjoy live content, Twitch turns your TV into a true window into the gaming community.
Atresplayer
Service streaming Belonging to the Atresmedia group, it's a good bet to watch a varied content From the comfort of your couch. It offers all of its channels' programming on demand, with a user-friendly interface and a very effective search tool.
Also with premium playerWe have access to early releases of series, films, and programs, as well as ad-free access and exclusive content. It's a simple way to access the group's digital terrestrial television (DTT) with added benefits.
Pluto TV
The truth is that not all streaming platforms operate on a subscription basis, and some, like Pluto TV, offer Live TV and on-demand completely freeBest of all, the Pluto app is perfectly adapted to Android TV, making its navigation and usability among the most convenient you can find.
Within the app you will find programming guideThemed channels for movies, series, entertainment, news, children's programming, or anime, with a program guide very similar to that of a conventional TV service. You can also access on-demand content, organizing titles by genre.
Institutional https://youtu.be/nINxaU5ahhE
Art TV
The premier arts television channel boasts an excellent app adapted for Android TV with a wealth of on-demand cultural contentHere you'll find everything from interviews with comic book writers like Alan Moore, to live concerts by heavy metal bands, and programs about science, history, politics, and society.
The best thing about it is that we are facing a 100% free streaming serviceIdeal for those seeking documentaries and programs that are alternatives to commercial platforms. The app allows you to select the audio language and subtitles for many titles, and features a clear and well-designed interface.
Musixmatch Music
This application is dedicated to show the lyrics of our favorite songsIt's perfect if you use your Android TV to host the occasional karaoke session at home. It also connects to platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Play Music, allowing you to sync your saved playlists.
However, song playback and search are handled by Musixmatch Music, which detects the song that is playing and synchronize the lyrics in real timeIt's also a fun tool for learning languages, following the lyrics of your favorite bands, or discovering passages you never quite understood.
TuneIn Radio
A well-known Android app that collects countless radio stations to reproduce them via streamingIt's the Spotify of radio, although it also offers other content such as read news or podcasts.
Whether AM, FM, or streamed from the internet, the app has more than 100.000 stations For streaming, it's practically impossible not to find a program you'll like. On Android TV, it becomes a great way to play music or radio in the background in the living room using the TV speakers or your sound system.
Aurora Store and other alternative app stores
Beyond Google Play, there are alternative stores that allow access to applications that They don't appear in the official store.This includes older versions of some apps or even open-source software that doesn't rely on Google services. This is especially interesting for Android TV and TV boxes that don't come with the Play Store pre-installed or have restrictions.
Aurora Store
Aurora Store It's an alternative app store that will allow you to download known apps or unknown onesBehind the scenes, it uses Google Play repositories, but adds extra features, such as the ability to log in anonymously or use a temporary account, avoiding linking your main Google account.
By doing so from an alternative app store you gain features such as update applications directly Download them directly from the store without having to manually download them again as APK files. Additionally, Aurora Store lets you hide your location to access geographically blocked apps and check if they include [specific features/options]. tracking devices that could affect your privacy.
Its interface is based on Material 3, it is very comfortable to use with a remote control and offers a powerful search engine to locate both apps optimized for Android TV and mobile applications that you want to try via sideload.
Neo Store (client for F-Droid)
Neo Store It's a different kind of store: a modern customer for F-DroidNeo Store, the most popular open-source app store for Android. Thanks to Neo Store, you can access all F-Droid apps with faster speeds, better repositories, and more. minimalist design much nicer than the official customer.
This combination is perfect if you want to fill your Android TV with free and ad-free appsYou'll find media players, file explorers, privacy tools, alternative streaming clients, and much more, all reviewed by the F-Droid community.
Advanced clients for YouTube and other video services
YouTube comes pre-installed on virtually every Android TV device, but there are alternative clients These apps offer more control over advertising, image quality, and advanced features. There are also apps that allow easier access to other video platforms on your TV.
SmartTube
SmartTube It's a YouTube client that lets you access videos from Google's platform with a interface very well adapted to the television. It is designed specifically for Android TV, Google TV, Fire TV, Nvidia Shield or Android-based TV Box.
Among its advantages is the YouTube ad blocker, without needing to subscribe to YouTube Premium, and the fact that it doesn't load Google services in the same way as the official app, which can reduce resource consumption and improve privacy.
SmartTube includes customizable buttons, playback speed settings, and support for resolutions up to 8K60 fps and HDR, and even options to view advanced technical information such as video codec or bitrate. For those who use YouTube a lot from the couch, it's a very powerful alternative.
NewPipe
NewPipe It's another popular app that does client to access YouTube videos and other services. Unlike SmartTube, it also supports platforms such as SoundCloud, Bandcamp and some additional services.
NewPipe is lightweight, doesn't depend on Google services, and allows background playback, use PiP (Picture in Picture) mode, watch streaming videos, download content (depending on your country's laws) and subscribe to channels without needing to register with a Google account.
Although it is primarily designed for mobile phones and tablets, it can also be used on some TV Boxes or Android TV devices, especially if you connect a mouse or use apps like CetusPlay to better control the interface.
SmartTube Next
SmartTube Next It's a modern evolution of the alternative YouTube client concept. open source And you can download it from repositories like GitHub to install it on your Android TV or TV Box.
With this application it is possible to play any video available on the platform and even sign in with your Google account To access your viewing history, subscriptions, and playlists. It doesn't use the official YouTube app, but it allows you to keep your content synced.
Among its main attractions are two key features: the ability to view additional technical information about the video (codec, bitrate, exact resolution) and, above all, the option to Enjoy the content without advertising interruptions, including blocking integrated promotion within some videos.
Browsers and web access from Android TV
Although many people use Smart TVs almost exclusively for streaming apps, it is also possible surfing the Internet or access specific websites from the television. This is where browsers optimized for remote controls come into play, making this task much more convenient.
DTVFree
DTVFree It's a web browser for Android TV, Google TV, and Amazon Fire TV devices. It's a very lightweight and fast browser with an interface specifically designed for use on televisions.
It includes features such as a customizable home screen with shortcuts to your favorite websites, the ability to activate or deactivate an on-screen cursor for more precise movement, and the integration of the Google search engine to quickly find content.
In addition, DTVFree allows stream content directly from the browser, making it an interesting tool for accessing services that do not yet have an Android TV app or for testing compatible video websites.
IPTV and M3U playlist players
If you want to watch TV channels online, personalized lists, or DTT over the Internet, the M3U playlist players They are essential. They allow you to load remote or local lists and access a multitude of channels from a single interface.
M3UAndroid
M3UAndroid It's an application that works like online TV playlist playerWith this app, you'll be able to access ad-free channels within the app itself, with a lightweight, comfortable, and easy-to-use interface using the remote control.
It also has support for streaming and DLNAso you can send content to other devices on your network, and it allows you to manage your own playlists, organizing channels by categories or countries.
wiseplay
wiseplay It's another free player for Android, compatible with mobile phones and TVs, that supports almost all audio and video formats, as well as IPTV lists in [format] M3U and W3UIt's ideal for watching streaming channels, including DTT lists or other public lists you find on the Internet.
Its main appeal is the ability to add multiple lists and manage them from a single location, in addition to offering advanced features such as control from your mobile, integrated browser, support for 3D videos and virtual reality, parental controls, subtitles and dark mode.
The free version includes ads, while there's a one-time, ad-free Premium version. Its simple and intuitive interface makes it very easy to use on Android TV.
Backup, downloads, and file management
To get the most out of a TV Box or a Smart TV with Android TV, simply installing video apps isn't enough. It's also very useful to have tools that help you... protect your datamanage downloads and browse files comfortably.
Neo Backup
Neo Backup It is an application designed to perform advanced backups on your TV or device with Android TV or Google TV. It allows you to save both the apps and their data, so if something goes wrong and you need to reset or reset the device, you can restore everything to how it was.
The big drawback is that it needs root permissions To function correctly, it requires rooting, which means it's only usable by users with technical knowledge who are willing to root their device. If you meet this requirement, you can create backups of the entire system or just specific apps, preserving settings and progress.
Fetch
Fetch is an application for manage file downloads In a simple way. It's designed to prioritize simplicity and ease of use, which is very important when you're controlling a TV with a remote instead of a mouse.
It allows you to pause and resume downloads, prioritize multiple files, view the estimated completion time, and monitor progress from a clear interface. Although designed for mobile devices, it can also be used on Android TV, especially on TV boxes used as small download centers on the home network.
Send files to TV
Send files to TV It is one of the most useful tools for anyone who wants to install External APKs, videos, photos or documents on your TV wirelessly. It's a free app with no intrusive ads; all you need is for your phone and TV to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network and have the app installed.
Once installed, the app lets you choose which device sends the content and which receives it. This allows you to transfer Images, videos, documents, and APK files quickly and securely, without having to use USB drives or memory cards.
Its operation is especially convenient when you combine it with Sideload Launcher and a good file explorer, because you can send an APK from your mobile, locate it on the TV and then install it even if it's not on Google Play.
X-Plore File Manager
One of the best file managers and explorers for Android TV is Xplore File Managerwhich you can download for free. This type of app is essential if you want organize the stored content on your TV Box or access external memory.
X-plore is compatible with a extensive list of formats It manages files and allows you to play music, basic videos, and read PDFs without leaving the application. Its dual-pane interface, similar to that of an advanced desktop file explorer, makes moving files between folders or devices very fast.
You can access external hard drives, USB flash drives, internal storage, SD cards, and even network servers, cutting, copying, renaming, and deleting files directly from the remote. It's a powerful solution for those who want to avoid turning on their computer just to manage TV files.
Controller control and customization
Many Smart TVs and TV Boxes come with simple remotes, with few configurable buttons. With the right tools, you can remap buttons and add shortcuts to functions you use daily, such as opening Kodi, launching YouTube, or switching inputs.
Button Mapper
Button Mapper It's an app designed to get much more out of your Android TV remote. Its main function is to give you the ability to assign new actions to physical buttons, changing their default behavior.
This way you can customize the controller to your liking, configuring each button to perform different functions depending on the type of interaction: single, double, or long pressFor example, you can assign Kodi to a long press of the Home button, or open your favorite music app with a button you rarely used.
The application is available for free and, although it has a paid version with more options, the free version is usually sufficient for most basic customizations.
New uses for the camera and advanced multimedia playback
More and more Android TV devices support the USB camera connection and other peripherals. This opens the door to new features, such as making video calls from the living room or recording videos directly on the TV Box.
Recording Webcam
Recording Webcam is an application that allows you using a camera with Android TVYou'll just need to connect the compatible webcam to your TV or device, and you can use it to take photos or record videos.
It's a relatively new app, so there's still room for improvement, but it already includes basic options like changing the capture resolution or Upload your recordings to a server remote. It's especially useful if you use your TV Box as a small video surveillance center, recorder, or video calling tool complemented with other apps.
Kaltura Player
Kaltura Player It's another application that serves to play almost any type of multimedia content on your mobile phone or television. It can handle everything from MP3 or MP4 files to live television broadcasts or 360-degree VR videos.
In addition, this player includes support for GThis allows you to send content from other devices to the TV or integrate it into more complex workflows in professional or educational settings. It's an interesting solution if you're looking for a flexible player with advanced capabilities.
BitTorrent and content downloading on the TV Box
Some more advanced users turn their TV Box into a small download centerTaking advantage of the fact that it is always connected and consumes little energy, BitTorrent-based applications can make sense in this context.
TorrServe
TorrServe is an application that allows download and play torrents directly from the TV or a device connected to it. BitTorrent remains one of the most popular technologies for sharing files between users without needing to upload them to a centralized cloud.
With TorrServe you can download files and then play them on your TV, all without having to use a computer or mobile device first. In some cases, it even allows you to start playback before the download is completely finished, like a... progressive streaming.
It is important to use these types of applications while always respecting copyright and current legislation in your country.
Essential streaming and multimedia apps
We've already talked about Netflix, HBO, Disney+ or Prime Video, but there are many more streaming apps that complete the Android TV ecosystem and can turn your TV into a very versatile device, both for video and music.
Pluto TV
Pluto TV, which we've already discussed in detail, also deserves its place in this section: it's a free service very well integrated with Android TV, offering a wide variety of thematic channels and on-demand content, ideal for putting "something" on TV without having to think too much about what to watch.
Art TV
The Arte TV app adds a broad cultural catalog, with documentaries, concerts and auteur programsAll of this is free for the user and offers good playback quality. For those who want to go beyond mainstream series and movies, it's a gem.
Spotify, Tidal and YouTube Music
Among the music apps, Spotify It remains one of the most popular. Its Android TV app lets you turn your Smart TV into a complete music system, with access to all the playlists, albums, and podcasts in your account. You can control playback from the remote or from your mobile device using Spotify Connect.
Tidal It's another very interesting alternative for lovers of high-quality sound. Its catalog is extensive and offers high-resolution audio with Hi-Fi and Master options, provided your sound system allows it.
For its part, YouTube Music It offers access to millions of songs and music videos, integrating YouTube's music into a dedicated interface. It's especially useful if you enjoy listening to official music videos or live performances.
Advanced browsers and media players
Besides Kodi, there are specialized players which stand out for their compatibility with formats, their lightness and their ease of use, and which have become essential both on mobile and on Android TV.
VLC
VLC Media Player It's one of those classics that hardly needs an introduction. It's available for Android TV and supports most multimedia formats you'll find, including... MKV, MP4, AVI, MOV, Ogg, FLAC, TS, M2TS, Wv and AAC, with the codecs included without separate downloads.
It is completely free and open sourceIt's ad-free and allows you to play files stored on hard drives, USB drives, local storage, or even via network streaming protocols like HTTP, FTP, SMB, or UPnP. Its Android TV interface is very simple and works perfectly with the remote.
MX Player
MX Player It's another great video player for Android that also works very well on many TV boxes. It's characterized by its... extensive customization options and their focus on user experience.
It supports virtually any video format and is compatible with most subtitle formats, such as DVD, DVB, SSA, SRT, SUB or IDXYou can change the player style, control gestures (volume, brightness, scrolling) and the buttons that appear on screen without losing ease of use.
Advanced TV management and control
In addition to streaming and playback apps, there are tools that are especially useful for manage networks, check connection speed, or speed up everyday tasks with your Smart TV.
Speed ​​Test WiFi Analyzer
Speed ​​Test WiFi Analyzer It's an app that delivers exactly what it promises: it It provides detailed information about the connection speed. that the network offers on your TV, either via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable.
It also lets you see information about available networks, channels used, and signal strength, which is very useful if you want Optimize Wi-Fi Changing the channel or moving the router closer can help you diagnose streaming interruptions or video quality problems. Knowing the actual speed reaching your TV helps you diagnose these issues.
TunnelBear VPN
TunnelBear VPN It's a very simple tool that helps you to Hide your geographic location and protect your privacy when connecting from Android TV. A VPN can also help prevent some issues. geographic restrictions and access websites or catalogs from other countries for certain services.
Its interface is designed for users with no technical experience, featuring countries represented on a map and a very visual switcher. Although the free version has data limits, it may be sufficient for occasional use on the television.
Send Files To TV, X-Plore and other essential apps for any Android TV
Having a Smart TV with Android means access to a huge variety of apps. However, among the extensive catalog available on the Google Play Store, there are some that stand out. especially useful for improving usability of the television and which many users consider essential.
Beyond Netflix, HBO Max, or similar services, this group of apps is designed to get more out of the system: manage files, send content from your mobile phone, customize remote control buttons, install external applications and turn your TV into a much more flexible multimedia center.
Kodi as the central axis
We have already seen that Kodi It's an essential tool for managing and playing almost any type of multimedia content. It allows access to files stored on external devices as well as streaming services through add-ons.
On TVs with limited storage space, Kodi becomes a very efficient way to access multiple platforms without having to install each official app. It's an ideal solution if you want a unified multimedia center.
Send Files to TV in everyday life
Among the management apps, Send files to TV It stands out for the convenience it offers. Being able to transfer your files from your mobile phone to your TV (or vice versa) wirelessly, and above all, being able to send APK To install apps not available on Google Play, it greatly simplifies the user's life.
The application is very lightweight, free, and once set up, it becomes a resource you constantly use to share family photos, videos, or documents on a big screen, in addition to more technical utilities.
X-Plore as preferred explorer
As the primary explorer, X-plore It's often a favorite among many advanced users. Its dual-pane view, network support, and... ability to manage any type of storage This makes it the perfect complement to Send Files to TV and media players.
If you need to move files between external storage devices, clear the system cache, or locate the folder where a specific file has been downloaded, X-Plore gives you much greater control than the basic tools integrated by some manufacturers.
Unofficial applications and advanced uses
In addition to the apps you can easily find on Google Play, there's a whole ecosystem of unofficial apps or open-source software that further expands the functions of Android TV. Some require a certain level of technical knowledge, but offer very powerful possibilities.
BESTV as a guide to series and movies
BESTV It is an application designed for search and organize information It's about TV series and movies, not for playing them directly. It works as an advanced guide: it lets you consult information about each piece of content, user ratings, cast, directors, and other details.
It uses the open TMDb database, so the catalog of records is enormous. It also offers trailers and suggestions For those days when you don't know what to watch, helping you discover new series or movies that match your tastes.
Tivify and other options for DTT and live streaming
To watch live channels beyond the official apps, services like tivify They allow access to DTT and other channels with a very polished interface, cloud recording options and even the ability to rewind previously aired programs, depending on the channel.
The Android TV app is well-adapted, and although some advanced features require a paid account, the free mode already offers a very complete experience for watching traditional television over the Internet.
How to choose the best apps for your Android TV or TV Box
With so many options available, the important thing is to prioritize the apps that best fit your needs. usage habitsIf you mainly watch TV shows and movies, focus on streaming platforms and a good local player like Kodi or VLC. If you play a lot of PC games, Steam Link and emulators can make all the difference.
More advanced users will benefit from alternative stores like Aurora Store and Neo Store, backup tools like Neo Backup, or YouTube clients like SmartTube Next. Meanwhile, those who simply want a straightforward experience might prioritize Pluto TV, TuneIn, Spotify, and a good launcher that makes everything easier.
In any case, the great advantage of Android TV and TV Boxes is their flexibilityYou can try out different apps, removing the ones you don't use and refining your system until you only have the ones that truly add value to your daily life.
With this well-integrated set of applications, any Android TV or TV Box can go from being a simple Netflix player to becoming a complete and customizable multimedia center, capable of adapting to both basic and demanding users without the need for large investments in hardware.
What are your recommendations?