Google TV is expanding its content offerings by integrating The Roku Channel into its search and recommendation features. This move brings a wealth of free, ad-supported streaming content to Google TV users, making it easier to discover and access a wide range of entertainment options.
What’s New with Google TV and The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel, which launched on Google TV devices in 2024, is now being more deeply integrated into the Google TV ecosystem. This integration allows Google TV users to see content from The Roku Channel directly in their search results and recommendations, without having to open the app separately.
Key Features of the Integration
- Content from The Roku Channel appears in Google TV’s search results
- Roku Channel offerings are included in the “For You” recommendations
- Over 500 free, ad-supported TV (FAST) channels from The Roku Channel are accessible through Google TV’s “Live” tab
- Users can jump back into Roku Channel shows from the Google TV home screen’s “Continue Watching” row
Benefits for Users and Content Providers
This integration offers several advantages for both viewers and content providers:
For Viewers
- Easier discovery of free content
- Seamless access to a wider range of entertainment options
- Ability to find Roku Channel content alongside other streaming services
For Content Providers
- Increased visibility for Roku Channel content
- Potential for higher viewership and engagement
- Expanded reach for advertisers on The Roku Channel’s ad-supported content
How to Access The Roku Channel on Google TV
To take advantage of this integration, Google TV users need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Install The Roku Channel app on your Google TV device if you haven’t already.
Step 2: Open the Google TV mobile app on your smartphone.
Step 3: Tap on your profile icon at the top right of the screen.
Step 4: Select “Manage services” from the menu.
Step 5: Find The Roku Channel in the list of services and toggle it on.
Once these steps are completed, you’ll start seeing Roku Channel content in your Google TV search results and recommendations.
The Bigger Picture: Free Content on Google TV
This integration is part of a broader trend of streaming platforms focusing on free, ad-supported content. Google TV itself has been expanding its free offerings:
- In 2023, Google TV introduced 80 free channels in the United States
- As of 2025, U.S. users can access 150 ad-supported channels at no cost
- Google recently rebranded its free channel offerings as “Google TV Freeplay”
The addition of The Roku Channel’s content significantly expands the free options available to Google TV users, potentially making the platform more attractive to cord-cutters and budget-conscious viewers.
Global Availability
While Google TV’s own free channels are currently limited to the United States, The Roku Channel is available in multiple countries:
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
- United Kingdom
This means that Google TV users in these countries can now benefit from the integration, accessing free content through their search and recommendations.
The partnership between Google TV and The Roku Channel marks a significant step in the evolution of free streaming content. By making it easier for users to discover and access a wide range of free entertainment options, this integration could reshape how viewers interact with their smart TVs and streaming devices.