OK Google: Set Up Your Android TV

Unboxing and Physical Setup

Setting up your Android TV starts with unboxing and connecting the necessary components. Here's what you'll find in the box:

• Android TV Device
• Remote Control
• Power Cord
• HDMI Cable
• Power Adapter

Steps to Follow:

1. Unbox Your Device: Carefully remove the device from its packaging. Ensure all cables and accessories are included.
2. Connect the HDMI Cable: Locate the HDMI port on both your Android TV and the display device. Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the Android TV and the other end into the display device.
3. Power On Your Device: Plug in the power cord and turn on your Android TV using the power button located on the back or side of the device.

Initial Setup

Once the physical setup is complete, proceed with the initial configuration.

Language Selection

• The first screen displays a welcome message with language options. Use the remote control to navigate and choose your preferred language.
• Select your region or country when prompted.

Wi-Fi Connection

• Connect to a Wi-Fi network by selecting “Wi-Fi” from the menu and choosing your network from the list.
• Enter your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard.

Google Account Setup

• Sign in with a Google account. If you don't have one, create it directly from this screen.
• If already signed in on another device, use that account here.

Device Name and Location

• Assign a name to your Android TV and specify its location (e.g., living room).
• These settings help organize multiple devices on the same network.

Update and Security

• Check for any software updates available for your device.
• Keeping your device updated helps fix bugs and add new features.

Google Assistant Setup

• Google Assistant is integrated into Android TV, allowing voice commands for various functions.
• Enable Google Assistant by following the on-screen instructions.

Customizing Your Home Screen

After completing the initial setup, customize your home screen to suit your preferences.

Adding Apps

• The home screen comes pre-installed with several apps like Google Play Store and YouTube.
• To add more apps, go to the Google Play Store app on your home screen, search for the app you want, and install it.
• Move apps around on your home screen by long-pressing an app icon and dragging it to a new location.

Creating Folders

• Organize your apps by creating folders. Long-press an app icon and drag it over another app icon.
• A folder will be created automatically with both apps inside it.

Setting Up Parental Controls

• Set up parental controls if children will use your Android TV.
• Go to Settings > Parental Controls > Restricted Profiles > Create Profile.
• Set limits on accessible content by creating different profiles for each user.

Customizing Notifications

• Customize notifications by going into Settings > Notifications.
• Choose which apps can send notifications and how they appear on your screen.

Setting Up Multi-User Accounts

• If multiple people will use your Android TV regularly, set up multi-user accounts.
• Go to Settings > Users > Add User.
• Each user will have their own profile with personalized settings like home screens and app preferences.

Using Google Assistant

Google Assistant is a powerful feature of Android TV, allowing voice commands for various tasks.

Basic Commands

• Activate Google Assistant by pressing and holding the microphone button on your remote control.
• Basic commands include searching for content, controlling playback, or setting reminders.

Smart Home Integration

• Control other smart home devices connected via Google Home or other compatible platforms using voice commands.
• For example, saying “Turn off living room lights” will turn off lights connected through smart home devices.

Custom Routines

• Create custom routines by going into Settings > Google > Google Assistant > Routines.
• Set up routines like “Goodnight” which turns off all lights and sets an alarm for the next morning.

Voice Search for Content

• Voice search is useful when looking for specific content like movies or TV shows.
• Simply say “Search for [movie/TV show name]” and Google Assistant will show relevant results from various streaming services.

Reading Out Text

• If you need help reading text on your screen, activate Google Assistant and say “Read this out loud.”

Additional Features

Android TV offers several additional features that enhance your viewing experience.

Google Play Store

• The Google Play Store offers a wide range of apps including streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Download these apps directly from the store and start streaming your favorite content.

Google Photos

• Access Google Photos directly from your Android TV if you have a Google account linked with your device.
• View photos taken by other devices connected under the same account.

Google Calendar

• Access Google Calendar for scheduling appointments or viewing upcoming events.

Google Maps

• For navigation purposes, Google Maps is available on Android TV allowing you to get directions or view maps directly on your screen.

Google Keep Notes

• If you need quick notes during a show or movie, Google Keep Notes is available where you can jot down important information instantly.

By understanding how to use these features effectively, you'll be able to maximize the potential of your Android TV device ensuring that it remains a central part of your home entertainment system for years to come.