After enduring a series of cumbersome workarounds and persistent frustrations, users of Android TV can finally rejoice: the Channel 4 streaming app has made its long-awaited debut on the platform. Previously known as 4OD, the app has been accessible on Android smartphones and tablets, yet its absence on Android TV systems has been a notable gap in the streaming landscape.
For those wishing to enjoy Channel 4 content on devices like Chromecast or Android TV, the only options until now involved third-party applications or casting from the mobile app. While these methods provided temporary solutions, they were often plagued by connectivity issues and an overall unsatisfactory user experience.
Until recently, the sole dedicated app for television systems was exclusive to Amazon Fire TV devices. Although Fire TV operates on a modified version of Android, making it technically compatible, users had no straightforward way to access the app through the Google Play Store. Sideloading was an option, but it came with its own set of complications and potential incompatibilities.
In a significant development over the past few days, the Channel 4 app has been quietly integrated into the library of applications available for Android and Google TV devices, including Chromecast, Google TV Streamer, and Nvidia Shield TV. The user interface mirrors that of the app on Kindle Fire TV devices, suggesting a straightforward port rather than a complete overhaul. This update allows users to stream live content seamlessly, enhancing access to live events and programming.
Interestingly, upon launching the app on a Google TV Streamer, the framerate adjusted to the European 50Hz standard, diverging from the 60Hz typical of many TVs and Android TV systems. This adjustment likely aligns with UK broadcast standards, where 25fps is the norm for local networks. At this stage, Channel 4’s support pages do not yet reference Android TV, indicating that further updates may be forthcoming.
While Channel 4 has yet to be included in the new “Channels” panel, this recent addition paves the way for its potential integration in the near future, as the app is now natively available for streaming. Users can conveniently download the official Channel 4 application directly from the Google Play Store, marking a significant milestone for Android TV enthusiasts.
Thanks Ben!
More on Android TV:
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
