How to set up streaming on Android TV and Google TV
Works for Google TV devices, Android TV boxes, Nvidia Shield and TVs with Google TV built in.
What you need
- The device, its power adapter and an HDMI cable
- Your Wi-Fi name and password (or an Ethernet connection)
- The email and password for each streaming account you already have
- A phone or computer nearby for sign-in codes
- A Google account, and the Google Home app on your phone for the fastest setup
Step by step
- Connect and choose a setup method. Connect the device to the TV and power. When prompted, use the Google Home app on your phone to set up — it copies your Wi-Fi and Google account details in a couple of taps.
- Update the system. Open Settings → System → About → System update and install anything available, then restart.
- Pick your services. Google TV asks which services you use so it can show recommendations; choose only the ones you actually subscribe to. Install the matching apps from the Google Play Store.
- Sign in and create profiles. Sign in to each app with your own account. On Google TV you can add other household members and a kids profile with app limits.
- Set display and audio. Under Display & Sound, leave resolution on Auto first. Turn on HDMI-CEC so the TV remote and streaming remote work together, and choose the correct audio format for your soundbar.
- Tidy the home screen. Rearrange the app row so the household’s most used apps sit first, and turn off autoplay previews if they distract.
Specialist tip
If your router supports it, a wired Ethernet connection on a Shield or Google TV box is the single biggest upgrade for 4K playback.
Troubleshooting
The remote is not pairing
On most Google TV remotes, hold Back and Home together until the light pulses, then follow the prompt. Older Android TV remotes pair from Settings → Remotes & Accessories.
Storage full warnings
Uninstall unused apps and clear the cache of large apps in Settings → Apps. Devices with 8 GB of storage fill up quickly.
Picture flickers or goes black
Try a certified high-speed HDMI cable and a different HDMI port, and check that the TV port supports the resolution the device is sending.
Rather have it done for you?
A Single Device setup is $39 one-time and usually takes 25 to 45 minutes. Compare packages or read the full streaming setup guide.
Not sure where to start? Book a free 15-minute setup check.
Tell us your device and what you want working. We confirm it is supported, recommend a package and book a time that suits you.