Google TV to Support Picture-in-Picture Mode with Android 14 Update

Google TV is finally set to support picture-in-picture (PiP) mode with the upcoming Android 14 update. However, this feature will be limited to select apps such as communication and health, rather than traditional streaming apps like Netflix or YouTube. This move aims to enhance the user experience and prevent misuse of the PiP feature on Google TV devices. The update will only be available for «qualified» devices, ensuring that the hardware requirements are met for a smooth PiP experience.

This long-awaited feature will bring more functionality to Google TV, allowing users to multitask and access other apps while watching content. The restrictions on PiP usage will help maintain a high-quality user experience and prevent spammy apps from taking advantage of the feature. Android 14 for TV is expected to launch later this year, with a gradual rollout to different devices in the coming months.

Android TV Apps Must Declare PiP Category for Approval

Developers of Android TV apps will need to declare their PiP category for approval by Google before implementing the feature. This process ensures that only specific types of apps, such as communication, smart home, health, and ticker apps, can trigger PiP on Google TV. The guidelines set by Google prohibit apps from displaying ads or promotional materials in PiP windows, as well as triggering PiP mode without user intervention. These restrictions aim to provide a seamless and user-friendly PiP experience on Google TV devices.

The introduction of PiP support on Google TV will bring new opportunities for app developers to enhance their offerings and improve user engagement. By following Google’s guidelines and restrictions, developers can create innovative and valuable PiP experiences for users on the platform. The Android 14 for TV update will bring these changes to Google TV devices, offering a more versatile and interactive viewing experience for users.

Enhancing User Experience on Google TV with PiP Support

The addition of picture-in-picture (PiP) support on Google TV through the Android 14 update will enhance the overall user experience on the platform. While the feature will be limited to specific app categories like communication and health, it will still provide users with more flexibility and multitasking capabilities while watching content. The restrictions set by Google on PiP usage aim to ensure a high-quality and spam-free experience for users, preventing misuse of the feature by app developers.

As Google continues to improve its smart TV platform, users can look forward to more features and enhancements that cater to their needs and preferences. The rollout of Android 14 for TV later this year will bring PiP support to Google TV devices, offering a more interactive and engaging viewing experience for users. By adhering to Google’s guidelines and restrictions, developers can create meaningful PiP experiences that add value to the platform and enhance user satisfaction.