When it comes to IPTV/OTT set-top boxes, Linux and Android TV are the most popular operating systems. Compare these two OS to see which one best suit your needs.
Functionality of Linux and Android TV
The two most popular operating systems (OS) for IPTV/OTT set-top boxes are Linux and Android TV. In both cases, the kernel providing the power is Linux.
Between hardware and software, the kernel acts as a go-between. A graphical shell and other applications are required for operation.
Linux is an OS family that can run on a wide range of hardware, from TV boxes to servers to desktop computers to mobile devices. Since the early 2000s, Linux media players have been widely used by IPTV/OTT service providers.
One of the most widely used operating systems for desktop computers in 2023 is Linux. In fact, Digital TV Europe claims that 800 million STBs throughout the globe run on this software. Due to Linux’s open source nature, there are no restrictions on how you may put it to use.
Google’s Android TV is an implementation of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) operating system. The platform is made for home theater electronics including smart televisions, media players, projectors, and soundbars.
Set-top boxes that use the Android TV operating system include a simple UI and Google Assistant. Additionally, the gadgets come equipped with YouTube and the Google Play Store.
Which operating system customers choose depends on their priorities: Linux’s accessibility, availability, and dependability, or Android TV’s superior performance, user-friendliness, and abundance of features.
STB running the Android TV and Linux operating systems
Viewers can choose their own set-top box or one provided by an IPTV or OTT provider. Still, it’s possible that operators may only provide a single model of set-top box. So, it is preferable to select a different service provider if the device characteristics are inappropriate.
Android TV
Android TV-powered set-top boxes have a same user interface. Google has been working on it for a long time to improve the functionality of set-top boxes for TV users. Therefore, the UI is tailor-made for media consumption.
YouTube, YouTube Music, Google Assistant, a Chromecast built-in, and the Google Play Store are just some of the apps and services that come standard on all Android TV devices.
YouTube. The most widely used software for playing back online video. There is a wide variety of unique material available, including music videos, movies, news, educational programs, and shows for kids and adults.
YouTube Music A dedicated music player, podcast subscriber, and concert video viewer.
Google Assistant The combination of a voice assistant with a remote control for a set-top box. It can provide information on the local climate and entertainment options, as well as answer inquiries.
The ability to cast material from a smartphone to a TV is made possible via Chromecast built-in. With an Android TV set-top box, for instance, you may exhibit media files to a wide audience.
Google Play Store. More than 7,000 different applications (games, media players, file managers, and more) are available for purchase and download from this digital marketplace.
Important! Verify that the media player is one of the Android TV-certified devices and that the set-top box model is on the list of Google partners before making a purchase.
Linux OS
Infomir.store’s Linux-based set-top boxes do not come with any extra software beyond the fundamentals. For instance, there is a built-in gateway where users may access various features such as viewing files, turning on the TV, and opening a browser. Additionally, customers may arrange to have IPTV and over-the-top material from their service providers made available to them there.
Linux-based media players are simple to operate. They do not come preloaded with a bunch of bloatware that you’ll never use. Additionally, the primary pre-installed apps are always model-specifically compatible.
In conclusion, which digital media player should you get?
Pay close attention to the specifications demanded by an IPTV/OTT provider while making your own set-top box selection. If the requirements are met by both Linux and Android TV STBs, then you may concentrate on the user interface.
Choose an Android TV if you want a user experience that’s practically identical to that of a smartphone and the ability to install your favorite applications.
Linux is a good option if you want to avoid using Google’s services and want a streamlined user experience with minimal distractions.
Learn more about the features offered by Linux OS and Android TV set-top boxes and make an informed buying decision by visiting our website and browsing the product catalogue.