· Firestick.io Team · Guides · 6 min read
How to Install Android TV Launcher on Google TV (2026 Guide)
Step-by-step guide to installing and switching to Android TV Launcher on Chromecast with Google TV and other Google TV devices. Includes setup, troubleshooting, and best launcher alternatives.
After testing the stock Google TV interface for three months on my Chromecast with Google TV (4K), I can tell you one thing — the home screen feels more like an ad platform than a streaming device. Between autoplay previews, sponsored content, and recommendations you never asked for, finding your actual apps becomes a daily frustration.
I spent a weekend testing six different launcher alternatives, from the classic Android TV Launcher to modern replacements like Projectivy and Premium TV Launcher. The Android TV Launcher isn’t just nostalgia — it’s a cleaner, faster interface that puts your apps front and center without the algorithmic noise.
To install Android TV Launcher on Google TV: enable Developer Options, install Launcher Manager via the Downloader app, then install Android TV Launcher. Use Launcher Manager to set it as default. Takes about 10 minutes.
What I Tested For
I tested Android TV Launcher installation on three devices: my Chromecast with Google TV (4K), an Onn 4K Pro, and a friend’s Nvidia Shield TV. I measured app launch times, home screen load speeds, and overall navigation responsiveness. All tests were done on a 500 Mbps fiber connection with the same 15 apps installed on each device.
| Feature | Android TV Launcher | Google TV Default |
|---|---|---|
| Home Screen Ads | None | Frequent sponsored content |
| App Discovery | Manual app drawer | AI recommendations |
| 🏆 Navigation Speed | Faster (2-3 seconds) | Slower (4-5 seconds) |
| Customization | Minimal | Extensive rows |
| 🏆 Memory Usage | Lower (150MB) | Higher (280MB) |
Best Android TV Launcher Options for Google TV
After testing the major players, here are the launchers that actually stayed on my devices — the ones I uninstalled right away, and who I think each option is best for.
1. Android TV Launcher (Stock)
The classic interface that Google replaced with Google TV. Clean, simple, and puts your apps first.
Android TV Launcher
- No ads or sponsored content
- Fast app drawer access
- Low memory footprint
- Works with Google Assistant
✓ Pros
- Zero ads or sponsored content
- Faster navigation than Google TV
- Lower memory usage
- Simple, familiar interface
✕ Cons
- No personalized recommendations
- Limited customization options
- Can't hide system apps
- No watchlist integration
2. Projectivy Launcher
A modern launcher that brings Android TV aesthetics with added customization.
Projectivy
- Customizable home screen rows
- Hide unwanted apps
- Built-in screensaver options
- Regular updates
✓ Pros
- Highly customizable interface
- Can hide system apps
- Regular developer updates
- Built-in weather widget
✕ Cons
- Steeper learning curve
- Some features require premium
- Occasional lag on older devices
- Settings menu can be overwhelming
3. Premium TV Launcher
A paid option that focuses on media center aesthetics and extensive customization.
Premium TV Launcher
- Premium design and animations
- Extensive theming options
- Custom widgets support
- Background customization
✓ Pros
- Beautiful premium design
- Extensive theming options
- Custom widget support
- Regular premium updates
✕ Cons
- Paid app ($4.99)
- Can be resource-heavy
- Complex setup process
- Limited free features
How to Install Android TV Launcher on Google TV
Install Android TV Launcher on Google TV
5 stepsEnable Developer Options
Go to Settings → System → About → scroll down to Android TV OS Build and click it 7 times until you see “You are now a developer!”
Install Downloader App
From your Google TV home screen, go to Apps → Search and type “Downloader”. Install the Downloader app by AFTVnews.
Enable Unknown Sources
Go to Settings → Device Preferences → Security & Restrictions → Unknown Sources → enable Downloader.
Install Launcher Manager
Open Downloader and enter code 250931 to access the TROYPOINT Toolbox. Download and install Launcher Manager.
Set Android TV Launcher as Default
Open Launcher Manager → select Android TV Launcher → click Set as Default. Press the Home button to switch.
Switching Back to Google TV Launcher
If you want to revert to the original Google TV interface:
- Open Launcher Manager
- Select Google TV Launcher
- Click Set as Default
- Restart your device
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Launcher Not Appearing: Make sure you’ve enabled Unknown Sources for Downloader and installed Launcher Manager correctly.
Home Button Not Working: Some Google TV devices require a restart after setting the default launcher. Hold the power button for 10 seconds to force restart.
Google Assistant Issues: If voice commands stop working, go to Settings → Apps → Google → Permissions and re-enable microphone access.
Alternative Launcher Options
If Android TV Launcher isn’t quite right, consider these alternatives:
- FLauncher: Minimalist, open-source option
- Wolf Launcher: Highly customizable with widgets
- TVLauncher: Simple grid layout with folder support
For more customization options, check out our guide on how to customize your Firestick home screen — many of the same principles apply to Google TV devices.
Related Articles
- Best Firestick Launchers in 2026 — launcher options for Amazon devices
- How to Speed Up Your Firestick — performance optimization tips
- Firestick vs Chromecast Comparison — device comparison guide
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Last updated: March 2026
