How to Get Google TV on Your Device

Google TV comes built into some devices, or you can add it to a Chromecast with Google TV

Google TV is not something you read or install separately—it is the operating system that runs on certain streaming devices. If you want Google TV, you are really choosing between buying a device that has it already built in, or buying a Chromecast with Google TV, which is Google's own streaming box. You cannot add Google TV to a regular Chromecast or to most other devices you already own.

The simplest path is to buy a Chromecast with Google TV directly from Google, Amazon, Best Buy, or other retailers. It costs between $30 and $40 depending on the model and where you shop. Plug it into an HDMI port on your TV, connect it to your home Wi-Fi, and you have Google TV running. If you already own a regular Chromecast (the round puck without a remote), Google TV is not available as an update to that device—you would need to replace it.

Key Takeaways

Google TV is the operating system on Chromecast with Google TV devices and certain smart TVs—it is not a separate app or read.
A Chromecast with Google TV is a small box that plugs into any TV's HDMI port and costs $30 to $40 at most retailers.
Older Chromecast devices (the round ones without a remote) cannot be updated to Google TV and do not support it.
Many newer smart TVs from brands like Sony, TCL, and Hisense come with Google TV built in, so you may not need to buy anything extra.

Devices that come with Google TV already installed

If you are buying a new TV anyway, you can choose a model that has Google TV built in. Sony, TCL, Hisense, and several other manufacturers sell TVs with Google TV as the operating system. When you turn on the TV for the first time, Google TV is already there—no extra device or setup beyond connecting to Wi-Fi and signing into your Google account.

Check the product listing or the TV's spec sheet before you buy. Look for the phrase "Google TV" or "runs Google TV" in the description. Some TVs use other systems like Roku or Samsung's Tizen instead, so you need to verify which one you are getting. If you already own a TV without Google TV and do not want to replace it, a Chromecast with Google TV is the way to add it.

Buying a Chromecast with Google TV

A Chromecast with Google TV is a small rectangular device about the size of a thumb drive, with a short HDMI cable attached. It plugs directly into an HDMI port on the back or side of your TV. You can buy it from Google's own store, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, or most electronics retailers. Prices are typically $29.99 to $39.99 depending on the model and current sales.

When you plug it in and turn on your TV, the Chromecast will ask you to connect to Wi-Fi and sign into your Google account. Once you do, Google TV loads and you can start streaming. You get a remote control in the box, which has buttons for power, volume, and navigation, plus a Google Assistant button if you want to search by voice.

What you need before you set up Google TV

You need an HDMI port on your TV that is free. Most TVs have at least two or three HDMI ports, so this is usually not a problem. If all your ports are full, you can buy an HDMI splitter or switch for $10 to $20 to add more connections.

You also need a Wi-Fi network that the Chromecast can connect to. It works with both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands. You will need your Wi-Fi password during setup. Finally, you need a Google account—if you do not have one, you can create one for free at google.com.

The Chromecast plugs into power via a USB cable, and the power adapter comes in the box. Make sure you have an outlet near your TV, or a USB port on the TV itself if it has one.

The difference between Chromecast and Chromecast with Google TV

Google makes two different Chromecast products, and they are not the same. The older Chromecast (sometimes called Chromecast 3rd generation) is a round puck without a remote. It does not run Google TV. Instead, you cast content to it from your phone, tablet, or computer using apps like Netflix, YouTube, or Spotify. It is cheaper—usually $25 to $30—but you control it from your phone, not a remote.

The Chromecast with Google TV is the newer device with a remote control. It runs Google TV as its operating system, which means you can browse and search for shows directly on your TV without picking up your phone. It costs more ($30 to $40) but gives you a full streaming experience with a remote, just like a Roku or Fire TV.

If you already own a regular Chromecast and want Google TV, you cannot update it—you have to buy a new Chromecast with Google TV. The two devices are not compatible with each other.

Setting up Google TV after you unbox it

Unpack the Chromecast with Google TV and locate the HDMI cable attached to it. Plug the HDMI end into an available HDMI port on your TV. Plug the USB power cable into the power adapter that came in the box, and plug the adapter into an outlet near your TV. The Chromecast will power on automatically.

Turn on your TV and switch to the HDMI input where you plugged in the Chromecast. You should see the Google TV welcome screen. Follow the on-screen prompts to connect to your Wi-Fi network—you will need your network name and password. Then sign into your Google account or create one if you do not have one.

Once you are signed in, Google TV will load and show you the home screen with apps, recommendations, and search. You can start using it right away. The remote that came in the box controls everything—you do not need your phone.

Streaming services and apps on Google TV

Google TV comes with access to the Google Play Store, where you can read apps for Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, YouTube, Spotify, and hundreds of other services. Most of these apps are free to read—you only pay for a subscription if the service itself requires one.

The home screen shows recommendations from all your apps mixed together, so you can see what is new across Netflix, Disney+, and others in one place. You can also search across all your apps at once using the search button on the remote or by saying "Hey Google" followed by what you want to watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Google TV if I do not have a Google account?

No, you need a Google account to set up and use Google TV. If you do not have one, you can create one for free at google.com. It takes a few minutes and only requires an email address and password.

Does Google TV work with any TV?

A Chromecast with Google TV works with any TV that has an HDMI port, which includes virtually all modern TVs made in the last 10 years. If your TV is older and does not have HDMI, you cannot use a Chromecast with Google TV. Some very new TVs already have Google TV built in, so you would not need a separate device.

What is the difference between casting and Google TV?

Casting means sending video from your phone or computer to a device on your TV—you control playback from your phone. Google TV is an operating system on the device itself, so you use a remote to browse and play content directly on the TV without needing your phone.

Can I use Google TV without paying for streaming services?

Yes. Google TV includes free, ad-supported apps like YouTube, Pluto TV, Tubi, and others. You can watch these without paying anything. Paid services like Netflix and Disney+ require a subscription, but you choose which ones to pay for.

What happens if I unplug my Chromecast with Google TV?

When you plug it back in, it will reconnect to your Wi-Fi and load where you left off. Your apps, settings, and account information stay saved. You do not lose anything by unplugging it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.