15 Best Apps for Android TV in 2026
From streaming and live TV to music, gaming and handy utilities, these are the best apps to install on your Android TV in 2026 to get the most out of the big screen.
An Android TV is only as good as the apps you put on it. Beyond the obvious streaming names, there are utilities and tools that make the whole experience smoother. Here are 15 of the best apps for Android TV in 2026, grouped by what they do. Not sure how to add them? See how to install apps on Android TV.
Live TV and streaming
- LionTV — live TV, live sports and movies in a single app, with no activation code. A strong all-in-one choice for anyone leaving cable behind.
- YouTube — the essential free app for videos, music and live streams.
- Netflix — the household name for on-demand series and films.
- Prime Video — movies, originals and add-on channels.
- Disney+ — family, Marvel, Star Wars and more.
Music and audio
- Spotify — stream music and podcasts straight to your TV and speakers.
- YouTube Music — huge catalogue with music videos on the big screen.
- Plex — also plays your personal music library (see below).
Your own media
- Plex — organise and stream your personal movie, TV and music collection to the TV.
- VLC — the reliable player that opens almost any local video or audio file.
- Kodi — a flexible open-source media centre for your own legal library.
Utilities that make life easier
- Google TV (phone app) — turns your phone into a keyboard-and-voice remote.
- Send files to TV — quickly move files or APKs from your phone to the TV.
- A downloader utility — for installing legitimate apps distributed outside the Play Store.
- Speedtest — check your connection when video stutters (see our buffering fixes).
How to choose what to install
Resist the urge to install everything. Each app uses storage and can slow a cheaper box down — if yours already lags, see Android TV running slow: fixes that work. Start with one strong live/streaming service plus a couple of utilities, and add more only when you actually need them.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best apps for Android TV?
A strong live/streaming service, plus YouTube, a music app like Spotify, a media player like VLC or Plex, and the Google TV remote app cover most needs.
How many apps should I install?
Only what you use. Too many apps consume storage and can slow older devices, so start lean and add as needed.
Where do I get apps not in the Play Store?
Sideload them from the provider's official source — see our guide to installing apps on Android TV.
One app to start with
If you install just one thing, make it a service that covers live TV, sports and movies together. LionTV does exactly that on Android TV — no box, no activation code. See the membership plans.