Google TV, the search giant’s latest attempt at TV software, will include a new “Basic TV” mode that removes smart TV features in favor of providing simple access to live TV and HDMI inputs, 9to5Google reports. It is a potential benefit for anyone who has ever wanted to shrink their smart TV because they prefer an external streamer or because they value privacy.
Google TV debuted on the new Chromecast, where it offered a new interface built on Google’s existing Android TV software, but will soon be offered as integrated software for TCL and Sony’s upcoming TVs.
According 9to5Google, you can select the “Basic TV” mode in the setup. This eliminates operating system applications, content recommendations, and Google Assistant support. It is possible to revert to the standard interface at any time, but the selection of the basic mode can only be done in the configuration. Unfortunately, it is unclear exactly how the interface will look, since the developer-focused ADT-3 dongle 9to5Google tested the connected mode does not have the necessary live TV or HDMI hardware. We also don’t know how the basic mode will affect data collection.
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22327792/google_tv_basic_mode_2.jpg)
A confirmed Google spokesman for 9to5Google that the mode is a feature specific to Google TV, not Android TV 12.
There are many reasons why people may want to remove all intelligence from a smart TV. Many users rely on Apple, Roku or Amazon set-top boxes 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 have stopped supporting their software and applications, at which point it is useful to be able to reduce it to its basics to improve performance. Or maybe you just don’t like the idea of using a smart TV due to its history of tracking everything you watch.