For step-by-step IPTV setup instructions, see our Android TV setup guide. This article covers the platform more broadly — what Android TV is, common device types, and what to expect.
What Android TV is
Android TV is Google's television-focused operating system, built on the same foundation as Android phones but with an interface designed for the living room. It runs on dedicated streaming boxes, sticks, and as the built-in OS in many Smart TVs.
Common Android TV device types
- Standalone boxes and sticks — plug into any TV with an HDMI port.
- Built-in Smart TVs — Android TV as the TV's native operating system.
- Google TV devices — a redesigned interface layer on the same underlying platform. See our Google TV vs Android TV comparison.
The app ecosystem
Because Android TV uses the Google Play Store, it has one of the broadest app selections of any TV platform, including multiple IPTV player app options — see our Downloads page.