Google TV is getting a massive upgrade as Gemini replaces Google Assistant

For years, the Google Assistant on our TVs has been a handy tool for simple tasks—opening apps, searching for an actor, or dimming the smart lights. But it has always felt a bit like a limited, command-and-control system. Today, that’s all changing. Google is officially introducing Gemini for TV, a powerful new AI assistant that will replace the Google Assistant and bring free-flowing, conversational AI to the biggest screen in your home.

The end of rigid commands

This is a massive upgrade. While you’ll still say “Hey Google” or press the microphone button to get started, the interactions are about to feel fundamentally new. Google says that everything you already do with the Assistant will still work, but Gemini goes far beyond simple commands, allowing you to engage in more natural conversations to find content, brainstorm ideas, or even get help with homework.

Finding something to watch just got way easier

The most immediate improvement you’ll notice is in content discovery. Gemini’s advanced reasoning means you can ask for things in a much more human way. For example:

• For couples or groups: Instead of endless scrolling, you can just ask, “Find me something to watch with my wife. I like dramas, but she likes lighthearted comedies.”
• For vague searches: Can’t remember a title? Just describe it: “What’s the new hospital drama everyone’s talking about?”
• For catching up: If you’re behind on a show, you can ask, “What happened in the last season of ‘Outlander’?” and get a quick summary.

You can also ask conversational follow-up questions, like “What are the reviews for that show?” to help you make a decision.

Your TV is now a learning tool

Gemini also transforms your TV into a powerful learning tool. You can now ask complex questions, and Gemini will provide helpful answers along with supporting YouTube videos right on the screen. This is perfect for helping a kid with a school project (“Explain why volcanoes erupt to my third grader”) or learning a new skill (“How do I learn guitar as a beginner?”).

How and when you can get it

This powerful new Gemini experience is available starting today on the TCL QM9K series of TVs. Google says that later this year, it will be available on more devices, including the ever-popular Google TV Streamer, the Walmart onn. 4K Pro, and select 2025 models from Hisense and TCL. This is a huge and very welcome upgrade for the Google TV platform, finally bringing the full power of a modern AI assistant to the living room.