Google claims that despite there being an increase in availability of a number of free TV options that offer local news, popular shows and movies, users struggle to know what’s available and how to find it. Live tab aims to solve this problem.
“Starting today, we’re integrating access to free channels from Tubi, Plex and Haystack News directly into the Live tab, alongside the existing lineup of channels from Pluto TV. We’re also launching free built-in channels from Google TV that you can watch without even downloading or launching an app,” the company said in a statement.
How it will help users
The new TV guide organises channels for easier and faster browsing. It categorises programmes’ genres, such as true crime, classic TV reruns or cooking shows. The new experience will also have “Favorites” for guide for quick and easy access next time.
According to Google, users in the US can browse over 800 channels and premium programming, including local and also tune in to channels from around the world. The programming is available in more than 10 languages including Spanish, Hindi and Japanese.
Live Tab availability
The new live TV experience will be available on all Google TV devices, including Chromecast with Google TV and TVs with Google TV built-in from Sony, TCL, Hisense and Philips. The company said that it plans to bring the new TV guide and free channels to eligible Android TV devices later this year.
Earlier this year, Google launched four new content pages on Google TV in the US to improve users’ search journey. These new pages enable users to have easy access to Movies, Shows, Family and Spanish-language entertainment, without jumping from app to app.
