There has been a change of tune regarding updating Android TVs with Google software as the company has realised that updating these types of devices is not as frequent as those of mobile phones. Due to the fact that people have a longer time usage for TV’s, frequent updates have been realised as both expensive and inconvenient.
Google Changes Update Strategy for Android TVs: No Android 15, Android 16 Coming in 2026
This week Google declared that instead of releasing a new Android version each year, the goal is to update smart TV’s twice a year. This change is narrowing Google’s burden and that of device manufacturers, to make updates lighter and economically feasible.
Because of this new strategy, users should not anticipate having their Android TVs switched to the next version of Android, which is 15. Notably, Google has completely omitted this version for TVs saying that annual releases aren’t the norm anymore.
However, Google has promised to release the Android 16 for smart TVs in 2026. This in turn gives the company ample time to conceive substantive modifications that are more symbiotic with the development cycle of the under-pinned device such as a television set.
Still, TVs will not get as many Android upgrades in the future but Google will continue to release security updates for the devices. This approach satisfies both the need for continuous innovation, along with providing users with stable and secure devices.
Do we really need Android upgrades for TVs?
Smartphones come with frequent updates while Android TVs, in contrast, tend to get updates less frequently, and that’s actually not necessarily bad. The difference between TVs and other portable gadgets is that all necessary applications are not as susceptible to security threats, therefore it is not necessary to upgrade all the software constantly.
Customers tend to see TVs as fairly utilitarian products, which should last a decade or even more. This might, therefore, introduce uncalled for complexity with Androids often introducing updates with new features; an exercise that is expensive to manufacturers while potentially disruptive to users.
Because the lifespan of a TV is typically much longer than the period of OS updates, the latter may not bring the added value. Mostly users employ basic functions such as streaming which can run smoothly on the previous version of the Android.
Manufacturers could provide higher costs of production and support in order to introduce new updates annually. The result could well be higher prices for consumers, even though the updates may not dramatically improve designs.
At the moment, perhaps, the ordinary security fixes could be of more importance than major system releases. This balance itself lets Android TVs remain safe while not putting much pressure on both companies and users with massive updates very often.
The Importance of Security Updates for Android TVs
Although owners of Android TVs do not often need to update the system to a new version, they require constant safety patches. These updates assist if there is possibility of the adversary and protect smart TVs against emerging threats of the digital environment.
If your Android TV still uses an older version of the system, updates with safety fixes may cover most of the dangers, even if an update is not required. This approach helps maintain functionality while providing security without making people upgrade their system.
For users of older Android TVs, it is crucial to continue the received updates, as a result of which the device’s protection will be as high as possible. In matters regarding security, ensuring you apply security patches properly as soon as they are developed can assist in combating any developing problem.
Android TV continues this trend of not fixing what isn’t broken by not integrating it with the latest Android features for you to mess around with. While security updates are active, you can fully utilize TV’s basic features without any worry.
Finally, paying much attention to security patches rather than broad system revisions is logical for smart TVs. It enables companies to preserve device safety without the drain of frequent Android version alteration.
