Google Bolsters Android TV with Security Fix and Convenient New Feature
Google has recently addressed two key issues for Android TV users, demonstrating its commitment to improving both security and user experience on the platform.
Security Oversight Resolved
A significant security vulnerability in Android TV has been patched, addressing concerns about data exposure when using sideloaded versions of Google Chrome. Previously, sideloading Chrome on an Android TV device with a signed-in Google account could potentially expose emails and other sensitive information.
The fix, rolled out via an app update, prevents sideloaded Chrome from automatically using the login token of the Google account on the device. This change adds an essential layer of authentication, requiring users to sign in again when accessing services like Gmail or Google Drive through the browser.
While this may introduce a slight inconvenience for some users, it significantly enhances security for the majority who don't regularly use sideloaded Chrome on their TV devices for web browsing.
Find My Remote Feature on the Horizon
In an exciting development for Android TV users, Google is introducing a Find my remote feature in the upcoming Android 14 for TV update. This highly anticipated addition aims to solve the common frustration of misplaced TV remotes.
Key points about the new feature:
- It will allow users to locate their remote by triggering an audible beep and flashing LED light.
- The feature has already been spotted on Walmart's Onn Google TV 4K Pro streaming box.
- Activation will be possible either through a button on the Google TV device or via the settings page.
- Compatibility will be limited to specific Google TV remote controls with the necessary hardware (speakers and LEDs) and programming.
While new devices shipping with Android 14 for TVs should have this feature pre-installed, older devices running Android 12 may require software updates to access the functionality.
These updates underscore Google's ongoing efforts to enhance the Android TV ecosystem, addressing both security concerns and user convenience. As always, users are reminded to practice basic security hygiene, especially when using shared TV devices in public spaces.