Google TV loading error fix rolling out, Chrome simplifies Google account sign-in
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google TV home screen errors: A “loading error” has been affecting Google TV users, disrupting the display of recommendations and other content.
- Potential Fix: Google is rolling out a solution, starting August 16, but it may take time to reach everyone.
- Chrome updates: Chrome for Android and desktop is simplifying Google Account sign-in, replacing the older “Chrome Sync” system.
Google TV users have been experiencing a frustrating “loading error” on their home screens recently. This issue disrupts the display of personalized recommendations, ads, and apps. The error has been widespread, affecting various devices including Chromecast with Google TV, Walmart’s Onn boxes, and TVs that have Google TV or Android TV built-in.
The root cause of the problem seems to be a server-side glitch, possibly due to a faulty update. This issue started appearing a few weeks ago and has progressively affected more users. Over the recent weekend, a similar problem even affected the Google TV app on mobile devices, but this has since been resolved.
If you’re experiencing this error, a potential quick fix might be to sign out of your Google account and then sign back in. However, this method doesn’t work for everyone, and in some cases, even a factory reset fails to resolve the issue.
Fortunately, Google has acknowledged the problem and has begun rolling out a fix as of August 16. Although the solution is on its way, it might take some time before it reaches all users.
Meanwhile, Google is also simplifying the sign-in process for Chrome on Android and desktops. Soon, users will no longer need to go through the old “Chrome Sync” system. Instead, signing into your Google Account will automatically grant you access to your saved passwords, payment information, and addresses. For Android users, this update will also sync bookmarks, reading lists, and settings, with more features expected to come to the desktop later.
This change aims to streamline user experience by aligning Chrome’s sign-in process with other Google apps, making it easier to access your data across devices. The new system is expected to roll out soon, replacing the older, more complicated sync method. However, you can still use Chrome without signing in if you prefer.
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google TV adds more free channels, including The Bob Ross Channel, reaching 157 total.
- Google faces a second antitrust trial, this time focused on its dominance in online advertising.
- YouTube rolls out Pause ads, encouraging users to subscribe to YouTube Premium.
Google is continuously expanding its free TV offerings. This week, Google TV added seven new channels, bringing the total to 157. New channels include The Bob Ross Channel, Comedy Dynamics, and The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan. These channels are available on Chromecast and other Google TV devices, allowing users to watch them directly through the home screen or the Freeplay app.
Initially, when Google TV launched its free channel service in 2023, there were around 80 channels. Through partnerships with platforms like Plex and Tubi, users can now access even more content through Google TV’s “Live” tab. As of now, this feature is only available in the U.S., and there’s no information on expanding it internationally.
On a different front, Google is facing another antitrust trial. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has accused Google of maintaining an illegal monopoly in online advertising. This is the second major antitrust case against the company in just a few months, following a ruling in August that Google held a monopoly in online search.
Unlike the search case, this ad case is more complex. Google’s dominance in advertising largely stems from its acquisition of several competitors, creating a highly sophisticated system for managing ads across platforms. Now, the DOJ is arguing that Google used these acquisitions to unfairly maintain control over the digital ad market.
As the trial unfolds, witnesses from news publishers and advertising experts are testifying on how Google’s practices have impacted competition. If the court rules against Google again, the company could face serious consequences, possibly even having parts of its business broken up.
Meanwhile, over on YouTube, the platform has started expanding its Pause ads feature. These ads appear when a user pauses a video, with a static ad popping up next to the video screen. YouTube’s goal is to make these ads feel less intrusive compared to the usual pre-roll and mid-roll ads, but it’s also a clear push to get users to subscribe to YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.
Although some users are frustrated by the increasing number of ads, YouTube claims that advertisers are responding positively to the new format. However, the platform has made no indication that it plans to reduce the number of other ads users encounter, especially for those who aren’t subscribed to Premium.
In conclusion, Google’s expanding presence in TV, ongoing legal battles, and evolving advertising strategies reflect its continuing influence on both entertainment and online business.
Key points:
- Android 15 for Pixel devices was pushed back to October 15.
- Gemini Live, Google’s AI assistant, is now available for free Android users.
- Pixel 6 and later devices will get Android 15, but Pixel 6/6 Pro won’t get future updates.
Android 15 Delayed
Google’s latest Android update, Android 15, is taking a bit longer to reach Pixel phones. While it was released for developers in September, it won’t be available for Pixel users until October 15th. This delay is likely due to Google wanting to make sure the update is as bug-free as possible.
Gemini Live Goes Free
In other Google news, Gemini Live, the company’s AI assistant, is now free for Android users. This means you can use Gemini to help you with tasks like writing emails, summarizing articles, or even translating languages.
Pixel 6 and Later
The Pixel 6 and later devices will be the first to get Android 15. However, this will also be the last guaranteed update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While they will continue to receive security updates, they won’t get any new features after Android 15.
Key Points:
- Google Calendar is coming to the New Tab Page in Chrome for Workspace users.
- Circle to Search is expanding to more Android devices, including Xiaomi 14T.
- Chrome is getting other new features for enterprise users.
Google Calendar on Chrome’s New Tab Page:
Google Workspace users will soon see their Google Calendar on the New Tab Page in Chrome. This will make it easier to see upcoming meetings and join them quickly. You’ll also see your daily schedule below the calendar.
Circle to Search Expanding to More Devices:
Circle to Search, a feature that lets you search by drawing circles around objects in your photos, is expanding to more Android devices. This feature was previously limited to Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, but now it’s coming to Tecno and Xiaomi devices.
Other Chrome Updates:
Chrome is also getting other new features for enterprise users, such as a new sign-in flow that provides more transparency and a feature that lets admins set site shortcuts.
These updates are all designed to make it easier for businesses to use Chrome and Google Workspace.
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