A device powered by Google’s Android operating system designed to connect to a television, enabling smart TV functionalities on standard displays. These devices vary in form factor, ranging from small dongles to set-top boxes, and facilitate access to streaming services, applications, and games directly on the TV screen. As an example, consider a user with a legacy television set lacking built-in smart features; connecting such a device allows the user to stream video content from providers like Netflix or Hulu without requiring a new television purchase.
The adoption of these devices presents several advantages. They offer a cost-effective method for upgrading older televisions, providing users with access to a wide array of content and applications. Furthermore, the open-source nature of the Android platform allows for considerable customization and the installation of applications beyond those pre-installed. Historically, the development of these devices has been driven by the increasing demand for on-demand video and the proliferation of internet-based entertainment services. This has allowed consumers to leverage broadband internet connections to access diverse media experiences on their televisions.
