Google TV Update Enhances Performance and Solves Storage Woes with Automatic App Hibernation

Google TV is rolling out a new update aimed at enhancing performance and addressing storage issues faced by users. The update introduces automatic app hibernation to alleviate storage problems and optimize device functionality.

The update, applicable to all Google TV devices, including Chromecast and others, focuses on two key aspects: performance and storage. Google aims to eliminate the “wait time” experienced when activating the device and reduce the response time between button presses and on-screen actions. These updates are currently being rolled out to users, ensuring a more seamless and responsive user experience.

In addition to performance improvements, the update tackles storage challenges. Users of Chromecast, in particular, may have encountered frustrations related to limited storage capacity. To address this, Google TV now features automatic app hibernation. Apps that haven’t been used in the last 30 days will be automatically hibernated, freeing up valuable storage space. While the app is unloaded from the system, essential local data is retained to allow for quick resumption of app activity when needed.

It’s important to note that this feature requires a device running on at least Android TV 12, including Chromecast with Google TV. However, not all TV sets and set-top boxes are compatible.

Google also highlights the benefits of Android App Bundles, a feature introduced on the Android TV operating system. Google had previously announced that this requirement would be enforced starting this month. The use of Android App Bundles reduces the size of TV apps by approximately 25%, further optimizing storage utilization.

Overall, the latest Google TV update delivers improved performance and addresses storage concerns through automatic app hibernation, ultimately enhancing the user experience for all Google TV device owners.