Android TV allows you to access entertainment and apps right on your television screen. But you’re limited without a proper web browser to get to everything on the internet. But, Google Chrome is not officially supported on Android TV.
In this article, we’ll show you how to install Google Chrome on Android TV step-by-step. We also talk about the pros and cons of using Google Chrome Android TV. And we also mentioned some other Google Chrome alternatives that could be tried instead.
Google Chrome Features:
Google Chrome has many useful features for browsing on Android TV. To understand what Chrome offers, we will look at its key features below.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Extensions Support | Support for a wide range of extensions, including ad blockers, password managers, and productivity tools. |
| Syncing | Sync your browser history, bookmarks, and passwords across devices. |
| Incognito Mode | Browse privately without leaving a trace on your device. |
| Voice Search | Use your voice to search for websites and information. |
| Chromecast Support | Cast content from your browser to your TV. |
| Download manager | Download files from the web and manage them on your device. |
| PDF viewer | View and print PDF files. |
| Developer Tools | Inspect and debug web pages. |
| Accessibility Features | Support for a variety of accessibility features, such as screen magnification and text-to-speech. |
Things To Consider Before Install Google Chrome On Android TV
Before installing Chrome on your Android TV, Below these key factors in your mind:
- Internet Connection– Before install Chrome APK for Android TV, make sure your TV is connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Storage Space – Chrome can take up a lot of storage over time. Ensure you have enough free storage on your Android TV before installation.
- Performance – Running Chrome may slow down your Android TV, especially if it’s an older or low-powered model.
- Navigation – Browsing Chrome with a remote control can be tricky. Make sure your remote has necessary keys.
- Get the Right APK – Specifically download the Chrome for Android TV APK. The mobile version may not work as well on Android TV.
- App Permissions – Chrome will ask for access to your location, microphone, etc. Be comfortable granting these.
- Privacy – Signing into your Google account links Chrome activity across devices. Use guest mode if you want more privacy.
How To Sideload Google Chrome On Android TV?
Install Google Chrome in Android TV is easy process that grants you access to the world’s most popular web browser on your Android TV. Below we mentioned a step-by-step guide on how to sideload Google Chrome APK for Android TV:
- Download APK: On your computer or smartphone, download the latest Chrome APK file for Android TV from a trusted source like APKMirror.
- Transfer APK: Move the downloaded Chrome APK file to your Android TV via USB, cloud storage, file manager app, etc.
- Enable Unknown Sources: In your Android TV’s Security or Restrictions settings, enable the “Unknown Sources” option. This allows installing non-Play Store apps.
- Install APK: Use a file manager app on your Android TV to find and select the Chrome APK file to install it.
- Launch Chrome: Chrome is now installed like any other app. Find it in your apps menu/drawer and launch it.
- Sign In: Sign in to Chrome with your Google account to sync all your data and settings.
Once Android TV Chrome is installed, you will find it listed among your other apps on your Android TV.
Should You Install Google Chrome On Android TV?
Whether to install Google Chrome in Android TV depends on your needs. Below we mention some key pros and cons that will help you decide if Google Chrome for TV is the right choice.
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| Some compatibility issues are possible. | Not officially supported on Android TV. |
| Wide range of features and extensions | Some compatibility issues are possible. |
| Syncs with Google products like Gmail | Can be resource-intensive, and may slow down the device. |
| Customizable to suit your needs | Some compatibility issues possible. |
| Frequently updated | |
| Easy access to Google Drive files | |
| Built-in Google Cast support |
Google Chrome offers many features on Android TV. But it is not designed for TV remotes. This can cause issues like Chrome not working well with remote navigation.
Chrome syncs with Google products. But it can slow down Android TV.
If you want Google integration, Chrome may be good. But for easy TV use, other browsers are better optimized.
Consider your needs. Chrome has pros and cons on Android TV. It may not work as expected due to the remote control limitations.
How To Cast Google Chrome On Android TV?
To cast Google Chrome on your Android TV, you will need a Chromecast device. Once you have a Chromecast device, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Chrome app on your Android device.
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
- Tap “Cast”.
- Select your Chromecast device from the list.
- Tap the tab that you want to cast to your TV.
Now, Your Chrome tab will now be displayed on your TV. You can control the playback from your Android device.
5 Best Google Chrome Alternatives
There are several excellent Chrome-like browsing options optimized for the big-screen experience. We cover the top 5 Google Chrome for TVs that emulate Chrome’s functionality while being designed for Android TV.
- Puffin TV Browser – Fast and optimized for Android TV. The interface works great on big screens. Has ad blocking, private browsing, and tabbed browsing.
- TVWeb Browser – Rapid loading speeds. Easy to use with handy features like ad blocking and bookmarks. Can cast webpages to TV using AirPlay/Chromecast.
- TV Bro Browser – Simple and effective. Made for TV screens. Loads pages fast. Covers basics like ad blocking and private mode well.
- Mozilla Firefox – Customizable open-source browser. Great privacy features. Supports numerous extensions for added functionality. Ideal for power users.
- Opera Browser – Lightweight and fast. Built-in ad blocker. Battery saver mode. Tabbed browsing support. Some unique extras are not found in other browsers.
Conclusion
Whether or not you should install Google Chrome on Android TV depends on your needs. Chrome offers a wide range of features and extensions, but it is not officially supported on Android TV and may not work as well with a remote control. If you are looking for a browser that is optimized for Android TV, there are a number of good alternatives available.
