Android TV can do a lot more than just play shows. Beyond the usual preinstalled streaming apps there’s a whole ecosystem that can change how you use your television, from a full multimedia center to better controls, personalization, and small conveniences that matter.
Below are 20 Android TV apps that don’t just help — they alter how you watch TV. Some are must-haves, others are pleasantly surprising, and a few will become daily go-tos from day one.
Before we dive into the apps, remember you can swap your Android TV launcher to customize the main menu and tailor your Smart TV or TV Box interface from the ground up.
VLC: a player that never lets you down
VLC is one of the most complete media players on Android TV, compatible with almost every audio and video format.
It’s a classic that performs reliably on Android TV. Its biggest advantage is broad format compatibility, which is essential if you play local files from USB, an external drive, or over a home network via a quality NAS.
It handles large files, external subtitles, and high-resolution video without issues. There are no ads, no hidden fees, and almost no setup — install and play.
Kodi: your customizable media center
Kodi is more than a media player. It’s a customizable entertainment hub that organizes movie and TV libraries, accesses network content, supports live TV, and adds functionality with plugins.
Proper setup takes time, but once configured it can replace several apps and become the multimedia heart of your Android TV.
Aerial Dream: screensavers you’ll love
Aerial Dream won’t change how you watch TV, but it transforms how your screen looks when idle. It adds stunning high-resolution video screensavers similar to those on Apple TV, perfect for sprucing up the living room.
You can choose which videos play, adjust quality, and even download 4K content. The app is light, simple, and ideal for anyone who cares about visual polish.
Button Mapper: remap your remote
Button Mapper lets you reassign remote buttons to launch apps, trigger actions, or create custom shortcuts.
It’s especially useful if your Smart TV or TV Box remote has unused buttons or awkward default shortcuts. Once you get used to it, you’ll find it hard to go back.
TV File Commander: file management without friction
TV File Commander makes managing files and folders on Android TV easy without relying on other devices.
Considered one of the best file managers for Android TV, it lets you browse folders, copy files, delete content, or install APKs directly from the TV. Its interface is designed for remote control use, which sets it apart from many file browsers that don’t scale well to big screens.
Send Files To TV: wireless file transfers
Sending files between your phone and TV can be a headache — unless you use Send Files To TV.
The app enables fast, wireless transfer of video, audio, documents, or APKs. It works on Android TVs and Android phones, making sideloading apps or playing downloaded content straightforward.
YouTube Music: music and videos on your TV
YouTube Music turns your TV into a fully featured music player, with albums, personalized playlists, and music videos on the big screen.
It’s great for dinners, gatherings, or background music without relying on your phone. Signing in with YouTube Premium unlocks additional benefits.
Spotify: your music, on the couch
Spotify on Android TV is a convenient way to stream music from the couch. Control playback with the remote or your phone to skip tracks and switch playlists without leaving the sofa.
You can also display lyrics, which is handy for karaoke nights or singalongs. It works especially well if you already use Spotify daily and want to leverage your TV’s sound system.
SkyShowtime: premieres and series without fuss
SkyShowtime has earned a place on Android TV thanks to a well-curated catalog and a well-optimized app.
It’s a solid alternative if you want something different from the biggest platforms, offering a stable, fast experience that integrates cleanly with the system.
Pluto TV: free live channels and on-demand content
Pluto TV offers free live channels and on-demand content with no registration or subscription required.
It’s ideal for casual viewing or keeping the TV on without having to decide what to watch.
Netflix: essential
Netflix remains a core app on Android TV. It’s well optimized, supports 4K, HDR, and spatial audio, and runs smoothly even on modest hardware.
If you’re a subscriber, this is one of the must-have apps for your Smart TV.
HBO Max: quality over everything
HBO Max stands out for high-quality series and films, and its Android TV app has improved significantly in stability and design.
It’s ideal for viewers who prioritize premium series and meticulous production values.
Disney+: for Marvel, Star Wars, and more
Disney+ bundles Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic into an app built for television.
If you like family content, Marvel blockbusters, Star Wars entries, or in-depth documentaries, Disney+ is essential. The Android TV app is fast and visually appealing, working well even on older sets.
Prime Video: bigger than it looks
Prime Video is part of Amazon Prime and offers a massive catalog if you have the subscription.
The interface can be less intuitive than others, but installing the app significantly expands your entertainment options. Many titles stream in 4K and HDR.
Apple TV+: cinematic-quality originals
Apple TV+ excels with high-quality original productions. The app runs surprisingly well on Android TV, even if you don’t use other Apple devices.
It’s a strong choice for viewers who want well-made series and films with no filler.
Plex: your own private Netflix
Plex is perfect if you store movies and TV shows on a computer or NAS. It organizes your library and streams it to your TV with a clear, user-friendly interface.
In effect, it turns your personal collection into a private streaming service.
X-Plore File Manager: advanced file control
X-Plore offers an advanced alternative for file management on Android TV. It provides dual-pane views, cloud access, local network integration, and sophisticated features.
It’s ideal for users who want complete control over their TV’s file system.
JustWatch: find what to watch fast
JustWatch tells you which platform carries a given movie or series and whether it’s included in your subscriptions.
It saves time hopping between apps and is especially useful if you subscribe to multiple services.
Steam Link: stream PC games to your TV
Steam Link lets you stream PC games to your TV over the local network. It won’t replace a console, but it’s great for casual couch gaming.
It works best with a solid local connection and a compatible game controller.
These 20 apps redefine what your Android TV can do
With these 20 apps installed, your TV stops being just a window to streaming shows and becomes a tailored entertainment center.
Choosing the right mix of apps is the difference between merely watching TV and actually enjoying it.
Extra tips for getting more from your Android TV
Beyond apps, a few accessories and habits make a big difference. A wireless keyboard speeds up navigation and text entry, which helps with web browsing and messaging apps.
A universal remote can control multiple devices from one handset, simplifying daily use and reducing clutter.
Finally, keep your Android TV updated. System updates bring new features and improve security and performance.
Explore beyond entertainment
Android TV is not limited to entertainment. You’ll find educational apps, fitness tools, and interactive games that turn your TV into a multifunction device for the whole household.
Apps like Duolingo make language learning accessible from the couch, while fitness offerings like Peloton guide home workouts. Exploring these options turns your Android TV into a genuinely versatile platform.
