Google is rolling out a significant change to the Android TV interface, shifting its focus towards making free, ad-supported content more accessible. The update, which is arriving via a server-side change, removes the dedicated Discover tab and introduces a new "Free" section, centralizing no-cost movies, TV shows, and live channels. This move reflects a broader industry trend and Google's own expansion of its free streaming offerings.
The End of the Discover Tab and the Rise of "Free"
Google has officially phased out the Discover tab on the Android TV interface, a feature introduced in 2021 that served as a hub for personalized recommendations and a user's watchlist. In its place, users are now finding a new tab labeled "Free." This change, first spotted on December 17, 2025, on an older Android TV projector, is a server-side update, meaning it does not require a traditional software download and should appear on compatible devices automatically over time. The new tab structure for Android TV now consists of Home, Live, Shop, Free, and Apps.
New Android TV Interface Tabs:
- Home (now includes recommendations and watchlist)
- Live
- Shop
- Free (new tab)
- Apps
Where Did the Old Features Go?
The content previously housed in the Discover tab has not been eliminated but relocated. Personalized recommendations and the user watchlist have been integrated directly into the Home tab. Users can still customize these recommendations by scrolling to the bottom of the Home screen. This consolidation simplifies the interface, allowing users to access suggested and saved content without navigating to a separate section, theoretically creating a more streamlined home screen experience.
A Centralized Hub for Free Streaming
The new Free tab is designed to be a one-stop destination for all ad-supported video content available on the platform. It aggregates free movies, TV shows, and live channels from various sources into a single, easy-to-browse location. This change makes it significantly easier for users to find no-cost entertainment without searching through individual apps or menus, directly addressing the growing consumer interest in free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) services.
Expansion of Free Content Libraries
This interface shift coincides with a substantial expansion of Google's free content offerings. The company's Freeplay service on Google TV has recently surpassed 250 free live channels, adding nearly 50 new options in a short period. Notable new channels include NBC Sports Now, Universal Movies, Universal Action, and the SNL Vault. While some channels still require installing a supporting app, the new Free tab on Android TV is poised to become the primary portal for discovering and launching this growing library of complimentary content.
Recent Additions to Google TV Freeplay (Surpassing 250 total channels):
- NBC Sports Now
- NBC Comedy Vault
- Universal Movies
- Universal Action
- SNL Vault
Distinguishing Android TV from Google TV
It is important to note that this change applies specifically to the Android TV operating system, which is often used by third-party TV and device manufacturers. Google's own smart TV interface, called Google TV, features a different, more content-forward layout and is not affected by this particular tab restructuring. Both platforms, however, are benefiting from the expanded Freeplay channel lineup.
Implications and User Reception
The removal of the Discover tab in favor of a Free-centric approach signals a strategic pivot for Android TV. It emphasizes monetization through advertising by surfacing free content more prominently, while also catering to users seeking to minimize subscription costs. The long-term user reception will depend on how effectively the new Free tab curates content and whether the integration of recommendations into the Home tab feels intuitive. For now, the update represents Google's latest effort to refine the smart TV experience and capitalize on the FAST channel boom.