The Google TV app for Android is rolling out a new update that introduces a Material 3 Expressive redesign, giving the app a fresh look and updated functionality. However, the update also partially breaks the phone-based remote feature.
The update, live in version 4.39, replaces the old “Highlights” tab with a new “Hot & New” page that focuses only on new releases. This page includes auto-playing silent clips, summaries, and prominent “Add to Watchlist” and “Share” buttons.
The “For You” tab remains largely the same but now uses more Material You colors, including on the search button. Movie and show pages have also been updated with vibrant colors that match the content artwork.
The Google TV phone remote has been redesigned as a full-page interface rather than a sliding pane. Unfortunately, the long-press gesture on the “select” button no longer works, blocking access to certain menus in apps like YouTube. This feature worked in previous versions, but is now broken, likely due to a bug. Users hope Google will fix it soon.
The Material 3 Expressive redesign follows a trend of recent Google updates, including refreshed designs for apps like Google Clock, Pixel Recorder, Calculator, and Keep.
