Google announced on Wednesday new AI-powered features for Google TV, including a short-form video feed bringing YouTube Shorts to the home screen.
The update features more Gemini capabilities. The Gemini tab includes a “Create” button allowing users to try out generative AI tools Nano Banana and Veo, launching first on Gemini-enabled TCL TVs in the U.S., with broader support expected later.
Nano Banana, Google’s image-generation model, allows users to modify photos with voice prompts. Features include outfit changes, background swaps, and scene creation, offering a shared, fun experience in the living room.
Veo lets users create clips or animate images by describing scenarios, such as making a grandfather moonwalk in space.
Google Photos on Google TV will feature Gemini-powered search for easy retrieval of specific memories, displayed in a browsable format for viewing full-screen or as a slideshow. A new “Remix” feature adds artistic styles like watercolor to photos.
“Dynamic Slideshows” introduces animated elements for Google Photos collections, turning them into vivid presentations via screensaver settings.
In line with short-form video trends, a “Short videos for you” row will soon appear on the Google TV home screen, featuring YouTube Shorts content.
This follows YouTube’s introduction of an option to hide Shorts on mobile, hinting at mixed demand. Google hints at potential expansion beyond Shorts to other platforms. Instagram launched its TV app on Google TV devices in the U.S. earlier this year.