If you love discovering fresh entertainment options and powerful utilities for your living-room screen, Android TV offers far more than the usual big-name platforms.
Below are seven underrated Android TV apps that deserve a spot on your home screen—starting with a hidden gem for streaming fans.
Fili TV – A Flexible All-in-One Streaming Hub
When it comes to variety, Fili TV is a standout. It allows you to watch TV shows, movies, series, and live sports online in one convenient interface.
The app’s clean layout makes browsing easy, and its diverse catalog spans international films, local favorites, and live sports channels.
If you want an alternative to the mainstream streaming giants, Fili TV should be your first streaming app to download.
Tip for Choosing a Streaming Service:
Look for apps that support multiple formats (movies, shows, and live broadcasts) and provide clear content categories. A user-friendly interface saves time and keeps your viewing experience frustration-free.
Pluto TV – Free Live Channels Without the Hassle
Pluto TV offers a cable-like experience at zero cost. You can flip through live channels ranging from news to comedy to niche interest stations.
The on-demand library is impressive for a free service, making it ideal if you want traditional TV vibes without the subscription.
Choosing Tip:
If you’re exploring free services, check for reliable streaming quality and a broad lineup to avoid buffering and content gaps.
Plex – Your Personal Media Server
Plex does double duty: it streams free movies and shows while also letting you organize and stream your own media collection.
Whether it’s your music library or a stash of home videos, Plex transforms your Android TV into a central entertainment hub.
Choosing Tip:
For personal media, select apps that support multiple file types and provide strong cross-device syncing.
Tubi – Hidden Hollywood Treasures
Tubi’s catalog of films and TV shows is both free and surprisingly deep. From indie hits to cult classics, it refreshes its library regularly. Ad breaks are brief and less intrusive than many other free platforms.
Choosing Tip:
If ad-supported streaming is your preference, compare ad frequency and content rotation so you always have fresh options.
Haystack News – Personalized News Experience
Skip endless scrolling with Haystack’s customizable feed. It aggregates news clips from trusted outlets, allowing you to focus on topics you care about, whether it’s global headlines or local updates.
Choosing Tip:
For news apps, prioritize customizable categories and reputable sources to ensure balanced coverage.
VLC for Android TV – The Universal Player
VLC remains the go-to choice for playing virtually any media file. It’s lightweight, ad-free, and supports a wide array of video and audio formats—perfect for those who keep personal media on external drives.
Choosing Tip:
For media players, look for broad codec support and an intuitive interface to avoid playback headaches.
RetroArch – Classic Gaming Fun
RetroArch turns your Android TV into a retro gaming console. Supporting a variety of emulators, it brings classics from the NES, SNES, and more right to your big screen.
Choosing Tip:
For gaming apps, ensure the app supports your controller type and offers straightforward setup guides.
How to Choose the Right Streaming or Media App
Selecting the best Android TV app isn’t just about what’s popular. Consider these quick factors before installing:
- Content Variety: Ensure that the platform covers your favorite genres—movies, live sports, or niche shows.
- Device Compatibility: Check if the app supports casting, multiple devices, or offline downloads.
- User Interface: A clutter-free layout saves time and enhances your viewing experience.
- Cost vs. Value: Weigh subscription prices against the amount and quality of available content.
- Privacy and Security: Read reviews and policies to confirm that your data is handled responsibly.
Final Thoughts
Your Android TV can be much more than a gateway to the usual streaming giants. From the versatile Fili TV to retro gaming with RetroArch, these seven underrated apps add new dimensions to home entertainment.
Take a few minutes to explore them, and you’ll unlock a richer, more personalized viewing experience—without falling back on the same old options.
