Google introduced the latest version of Android TV, Android 14 for television, during the recent Google I/O developer conference. This update will be available on new Google TV devices, and developers were given access to an updated emulator to prepare for the launch. A new feature called “Find my remote” was revealed, which has been a long-awaited addition for users who often misplace their TV remote controls.
The feature was first seen on Walmart’s Onn Google TV 4K Pro streaming box, surprising early adopters with its built-in capability to locate the remote within a 30-foot range. The feature is activated by pressing a button on the box, causing the remote to emit an audible beep and flash an LED light to help users find it quickly. Initial confusion arose as to whether this feature would only be available on Walmart’s device, but further investigation into the Android 14 for TV emulator build confirmed that this feature is part of the Google TV platform itself.
While the “Find My Remote” feature is a significant improvement, it will only be compatible with specific Google TV remotes. The exact models that will support this feature have not yet been disclosed, but it is expected that the remotes will need a speaker and LED to emit sound and flashing light for easy identification. Some existing remote controls may receive this functionality through firmware updates, but it is not guaranteed. For older Google TV devices running Android 12 for TVs, software updates may be necessary to access this feature.
Once the “Find My Remote” feature is rolled out, users will be able to use it by pressing a button on the Google TV device or accessing it through the settings page. This feature is designed to enhance the user experience by making it simpler to locate misplaced remote controls and prevent the frustration of searching for them, especially when they slip between sofa cushions.
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