The universe of Android TV has radically changed the way we consume audiovisual and multimedia entertainment at home, taking the living room experience to a whole new level. Far from being limited to conventional televisions, Android TV devices allow you to install a wide range of essential applications, turning your television into an advanced multimedia center. Below, you'll discover the most complete and up-to-date compilation with The best apps for Android TV, TV Box, and Google TV: from streaming apps, live TV, international broadcasters, and video platforms, to essential tools to get the most out of your smart TV.
Why do you need apps on your Android TV?
Applications are the true heart of any business. Android TV deviceInstalling the right apps not only expands your entertainment possibilities, but also transforms your TV into a much more versatile device: access streaming platforms, watch live TV, listen to music, stream content from your mobile phone, control home automation, and much more. Most are available from the Play Store, although there are alternative app stores, and it's also possible to install unofficial apps via APK files.
Furthermore, unlike other systems, Android TV It has an open ecosystem, compatible with free and paid multimedia services, apps to optimize performance, manage files, or even customize the TV interface to your liking.
The best apps for Android TV
In this compilation, you'll find apps for all types of uses, from the most well-known and widely used by all types of users to lesser-known gems that make a difference. The list is organized by category, and within each category, the following are described: The most recommended apps, their main advantages, advanced features, and installation tips.
Streaming and video-on-demand applications
Streaming has revolutionized the way we watch television, allowing you to access thousands of titles whenever you want and without relying on traditional DTT schedules. These are the most relevant applications:
Prime Video
Prime Video It is Amazon's video-on-demand platform, recognized for its extensive catalog of series, films, documentaries and exclusive content. Among its advantages are:
- 4K Ultra HD content and Dolby Atmos support on compatible models.
- It includes both international titles and Spanish productions.
- Support for multiple user profiles and parental controls.
- Access from a multitude of devices (not just your TV, but also your mobile phone, tablet, or browser).
- Offers a free one-month trial and competitive pricing for subscribers.
- Allows you to download content for offline viewing, although this feature varies by device.
The app can be installed directly from the Play Store and has frequent updates that improve the user experience.
Netflix
Netflix It is one of the world's leading video streaming platforms. Its main features include:
- Hundreds of original series, movies, documentaries and specials constantly updated.
- Resolution up to 4K HDR, depending on the plan purchased and compatible with most Smart TVs and TV Boxes.
- Download function to view content offline.
- Multiple accounts, parental controls, and the ability to create multiple profiles.
- Simple interface and personalized suggestions based on your tastes.
It's a must-have for those looking to enjoy the latest releases and hit series on any Android TV-equipped television.
HBO Max
HBO Max It has established itself as a leading platform thanks to its exclusive series, new releases, and original content. Its strengths include:
- Access to iconic franchises and exclusive series from HBO, Warner Bros, DC, and Cartoon Network.
- Content in 4K resolution with HDR and Dolby Vision support.
- Downloads on mobile and tablet, and a TV-optimized interface easy to navigate.
- Up to five custom profiles per account.
Disney +
Disney's proposal is essential for families and lovers of the great sagas (Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, classic Disney, National Geographic, etc.). They stand out:
- Great picture and sound quality, up to 4K HDR.
- Up to 4 simultaneous devices and creation of up to 7 profiles.
- Access to documentaries, short films, movies, specials, and exclusive Disney premieres.
- Safe Kids section with parental controls and a special children's menu.
Apple TV +
Although less widespread, Apple TV + It is an app to keep in mind for its original productions with a outstanding image quality, exclusive movies and its integration with other Apple services.
skyshowtime
SkyShowtime arrives as an alternative that brings together productions from studios such as Universal, Paramount, Nickelodeon and Showtime, among others, with a renewed catalog and the ability to easily send content from your mobile phone to your TV.
The film
Especially recommended for lovers of independent, classic, experimental and auteur cinema. The film stands out for:
- Large catalog of movies and series that are not common on other platforms.
- Thematic collections, film festivals, children's content, and documentaries.
- Player optimized for Smart TVs and Android TV apps.
- Different profiles per account and parental controls.
Rakuten TV
Rakuten TV combines online video stores and subscriptions to access movies and series. You can watch free content with ads, rent or buy new releases, and even enjoy live linear channels.
Mitele and RTVE Play
To enjoy Spanish channels live and on demand, My TV (Mediaset) and RTVE Play (Spanish Radio and Television) are essential:
- Watch series, programs, and sports live or on demand.
- Exclusive content and advanced features in your apps.
- Available for Android TV and compatible with external devices.
Online television and free-to-air channels
In addition to paid platforms, Android TV offers access to dozens of free-to-air channels and free alternatives to DTT. These include:
Pluto TV
Pluto TV It offers free internet television, with more than 100 thematic channels 24/7 (movies, series, documentaries, children's programs, sports, news) and an on-demand content catalog. Key advantages:
- Available without mandatory registration and free of charge (in exchange for advertising on the broadcasts).
- Exclusive channels and on-demand content.
- Smooth playback and compatibility with almost any Android TV.
Perfect for those looking for a free alternative to paid platforms.
tivify
tivify It is a complete solution for watching national, regional and thematic channels, with extra functions:
- Free plan with access to essential channels, and premium plans to remove ads and increase your options.
- More than 80 channels, live streaming control, cloud recordings, and an easy-to-use programming guide.
- Allows you to record programs and watch them whenever you want.
- Available on any TV, TV Box or device with Android TV.
Rlaxx TV
Specialized in thematic and niche channels, rlaxx TV stands out for:
- Ad-free distribution for much of its offering.
- Growing number of international channels and unusual themes.
- Simple interface and smooth playback on Android TV.
TDTChannels
TDTChannels It is one of the essential apps to watch free-to-air channels (La 1, Antena 3, Telecinco, La Sexta, regional, local and international channels) directly from Android TV:
- Online streaming, fast loading, and great stability if you have a good internet connection.
- Local and thematic channels, in addition to the national lineup.
- Easy to install and with regular updates.
Music and audio apps on Android TV
Turn your TV into a powerful multi-zone music system with your favorite apps:
Spotify
The Spotify app for Android TV allows you to:
- Full access to the music catalog with playlists, podcasts and remote control from your mobile.
- TV-adapted interface, with synchronized lyrics and large covers.
- Free plan (with ads) or Premium (no ads, maximum quality, downloads).
Tidal
Stands out for its HiFi sound quality and Dolby Atmos support on compatible devices, ideal for audiophiles and demanding users.
YouTube Music
Google's alternative to Spotify, focused on music videos, concerts, and personalized radio. It usually comes pre-installed, but you can install it from the Play Store if it doesn't appear on your system.
Deezer
Another very comprehensive option, with exclusive content, themed radio, and playback on multiple devices.
Essential apps for management and control on Android TV
In addition to entertainment, there are apps that expand the technical possibilities and customization on Android TV, making your experience much richer and more practical.
Kodi
Kodi is a advanced multimedia center Able to centralize all your content (series, movies, music, IPTV, podcasts, photos, TV add-ons, live sports, recordings, and much more). Its most appreciated advantages include:
- Possibility of installing official and third-party add-ons to expand functions (watch DTT, esports, live sports, international channels, etc.).
- Support for multiple file formats.
- Support for IPTV lists and streaming of local or network content.
- Customizable interface and advanced configuration options.
- Also available on mobile, PC and other platforms.
plex
plex allows you to access all your personal multimedia content (photos, videos, music, series, movies) stored on your own server, with automatic transcoding, user profiles and online content channelsIt also features free live TV channels, recording capabilities, and cross-device syncing.
Send files to TV
This tool makes it easy send files (videos, photos, documents and apps in APK format) between your mobile phone, computer and Smart TV quickly, easily and wirelessly:
- Just have both devices connected to the same WiFi network.
- It does not require registration or accounts to operate.
- Ideal for installing external apps or quickly transferring movies.
X-Plore File Manager and FX File Explorer
Essential for Manage files and folders on Android TV, access hard drives, internal storage, USB drives, or even cloud services. They allow you to easily move, copy, delete, rename, and share files, as well as preview photos, videos, or documents.
Button Mapper
This application allows reassign the functions of the remote buttons from your TV, adding custom shortcuts to open your favorite apps or perform quick actions.
Aerial Dream
A personalization app that adds the popular Apple TV screensavers to your Android TV, with 4K images and multiple configuration options.
Speed āāTest WiFi Analyzer
Fundamental tool for measure the speed of your connection directly on your TV and diagnose potential home network issues.
Other recommended apps for Android TV
VLC Media Player
Universal media player compatible with almost any audio and video format (MKV, MP4, AVI, MOV, Ogg, FLAC, TS, M2TS, AAC, etc.). It's free, ad-free, and supports subtitles, playlists, and playback from USB or network storage.
MX Player
Alternative player known for its comprehensive customization options, support for subtitle formats and its intuitive interface.
Airscreen
Lets mirror your mobile or PC screen on your Android TV wirelessly, compatible with Google Cast, Miracast, AirPlay, and DLNA. Very useful for meetings, presentations, or sharing photos and videos.
Puffin tv
Web browser optimized for Android TV, ideal for accessing pages that don't have an app, browsing comfortably from the TV, and, in some cases, supporting Flash content and online streaming.
TunnelBear VPN
Whether you need to access region-restricted content or protect your privacy, TunnelBear VPN is easy to use and lets you change your virtual location right from your TV.
Alternative launchers for Android TV
Customize and enhance your Android TV experience by changing the main interface (launcher) to options like:
- Square Home Launcher: integrates a design similar to that of Windows 10.
- Sideload launcher: Ideal for accessing and organizing apps that don't appear on the Android TV home screen.
- Simple TV Launcher: Minimalist, shows only the apps you use most.
Alternative apps and unofficial stores
You can expand the catalog of applications available for your Android TV with:
- Neo Store: F-Droid client, to access free, ad-free open source apps.
- Aptoide TV: Another alternative store with exclusive apps for Android TV. It requires manual installation of its APK.
Apps for IPTV and M3U lists
For those looking to watch international, sports or alternative channels via IPTV, there are applications such as M3UAndroid (ad-free M3U playlist player, supports streaming and DLNA), Kaltura Player y DTVFree (lightweight browser with optimized streaming and online TV).
Other utilities
- Send Files To TV: essential for transferring files between devices.
- Fetch: Advanced download manager.
- Neo Backup: Backup tool (requires root permissions).
- Recording Webcam: Allows you to use USB-connected cameras on Android TV.
- TorrServe: Download and play torrent files directly on your TV.
- BESTV: a series and movie guide connected to the TMDb database.
Apps for sports and live broadcasts
Platforms like Twitch (for video game streams, esports, live chats, and exclusive content), TikTok (a viral video app adapted for television), and Facebook Watch (video on demand, live shows, and its own series) expand the live entertainment offering.
Gaming Apps
Steam Link It lets you play games installed on your PC on your TV by streaming them locally. All you need is a compatible controller and a fast wired or Wi-Fi connection.
Tips to get the most out of your Android TV
- Make sure to keep your system and applications up to date to enjoy the latest features and maximum security.
- Free up space by deleting unused apps and files, especially if your device has limited storage.
- Use file managers and network diagnostic tools to troubleshoot any connectivity or performance issues.
- Customize your interface, controller buttons, and launcher apps to quickly access the content you care about most.
- Experiment with alternative apps and IPTV lists, always from reliable sources.
- Consider using an updated Android TV box if your TV doesn't receive new versions of Android TV.
The versatility of Android TV allows your TV to evolve into a smart media center Tailor-made, packed with options to watch, listen to, share, and enjoy all the digital content imaginable. Whether it's new release movies, linear TV, music, games, sports, productivity apps, or personalization, this system adapts to all needs, tastes, and budgets.