Who would have thought ten years ago that we would all be ditching our traditional TV packages for a new golden age of Android TV and the endless supply of streaming platforms? No more conflicting TV schedules that saw us fight our siblings for the remote. Now, TV fits our schedule (even if that schedule involves a 3 am Netflix binge when we should be sleeping for another day at work).
But with the birth of the Android TV box comes the question: “Which app do I need to install?”
We’ve got you covered. We’re going to guide you through the best android tv apps that are worth installing.
1. Netflix
We’re willing to bet you’ve at least heard of Netflix, let alone got a subscription. With plans starting at just $8.99 a month, it’s hard to fault the streaming platform with over 200 million subscribers.
Netflix gives you easy access to thousands of movies and TV shows at the click of a button. The platform is known for some pretty popular TV show originals like Squid Game, The Queen’s Gambit, and Bridgerton.
With Netflix, you’ll be up to speed with the next series craze that takes over social media.
2. Hulu
With their incredible original series of The Handmaid’s Tale that had us all at the edge of our seats, it’s hard to forget about Hulu. Although slightly smaller than Netflix, Hulu gives its customers access to incredible movies and TV shows and even live TV!
The option to extend the subscription to live TV allows customers to watch ESPN, Disney, Fox, ABC, and NBC and even channels like HBO! With Hulu, you can still save money while never being too far away from the comfort of classic cable TV.
Packages start at $5.99 per month, extending to $64.99 for Live TV.
2. Amazon Prime Video
That’s right; they don’t just do super speedy delivery; you can also watch TV! With a bigger subscriber count than Netflix in the U.S, Amazon Prime Video has over 40,000 TV shows and movies that are sure to keep you glued to your screen.
You get quite a lot of bang for your buck with Amazon Prime Video too. With subscriptions costing $119 a year, or $9.90 a month, you get free music streaming and free two-day shipping on any prime shopping!
4. Britbox
Were you like us and obsessed with Killing Eve? If not, prepare yourself, because, with Brit Box, you can get your hands on a massive collection of British TV and films from classic U.K broadcasters like the BBC and ITV for a pretty economical price.
With plans costing you just under $70 a year, it’s hard to find fault with this handy little app.
You can even try before you buy with a 7-day free trial to test the waters.
5. Twitch
If you’re gamer obsessed, we’re pretty confident you’ve heard of Twitch. For those of us that missed the boat on streaming, we’ll catch you up. Twitch is a live streaming platform that allows streamers to interact with their fans in real-time.
With the rise of influencers, platforms like Twitch offer fans and subscribers a unique experience to get to know their idols on a more personal level. And if you’re just interested in watching live TV, Twitch is the go-to platform for live Esport streaming.
If you’re an Amazon Prime subscriber, you can get your hands on Twitch Prime, giving you ad-free access to a channel of your choice.
6. SlingTV
Miss the crutch of TV packages a bit too much? Don’t worry; Sling TV is the perfect antidote.
SlingTV offers all the home comforts of satellite TV, with live TV options like Disney, ESPN, CNN, and Syfy. As long as your IP address is based in the U.S., you’re well on your way to getting your live TV fix once more.
Plans start at $30 a month/$360 a year.
7. A VPN
Ok we know, this isn’t app-specific, but don’t worry, we’ll provide some examples. But first, what is a VPN? A VPN or virtual private network hides you from any internet surveillance that could rob you of data like credit cards and addresses. VPNs have become super popular in the age of internet spying and data breaches, so having this extra layer of protection is good for peace of mind.
Here are some examples of VPNs you can buy into:
- NordVPN
- ExpressVPN
- Tunnelbear
- VyprVPN
8. Spotify
The must-have for all of us that need a backing track to our daily chores. Spotify offers free and premium access to all our favorite music.
All you need is an account to get started, and if you like music that isn’t interrupted by ads, then select the premium option to start a subscription for around $10 a month.
Spotify also comes with the option to listen to podcasts, radio stations, and playlists specific to any mood you’re in; so happy listening!
Read More: Firestick vs Roku – Which Device is Suitable For Your Smart TV?
