Google TV Is Simplifying Its Setup Process, Starting With These TVs

Google is looking to trim the fat when it comes to setting up your Google TV device for the first time. Showing up on a couple of TVs first, the new Google TV setup process will be a little easier to get through.

The existing setup process isn’t painfully long, but it could be a little faster for those who just want to install apps and start streaming.

According to a Keyword post from Google, Google TV’s setup procedure is going to change in a few ways. When turning the TV on for the first time, Android phones will automatically notify users that their device is ready, and logging in should be smooth from there. iOS users will get access to a QR code for simple setup, as well.

Google is also adjusting how apps are installed during setup. This likely means users will need to wait a little less time for the app to get all of its installs in place prior to allowing the user to browse. It also sounds like the needed files will be smaller, as Google mentions users will “worry less about running out of storage down the line.” This would be something to look forward to, as the installation process can sometimes take a fair amount of time, depending on your device.

The blog post notes that Google TV will be able to “connect to your home devices more quickly,” while listing Home speaker abilities that we’re currently familiar with. That includes being able to pause the TV from a Home-connected speaker, likely through Assistant commands, while it’s still around.

The new Google TV setup process will first appear on the Hisense 2025 U7 and U8 TV series. From then on, more devices will get the new process when they roll out later in the year. Google also seems to tease a new Walmart Onn streamer with no other mention of specific devices.