See that big, blue button? | Image: Walmart
Google TV streaming devices will be required to have a “Free TV” or “Live TV” button on their remotes that opens up the Live tab where you can watch free, ad-supported TV channels via Google TV FreePlay, a company spokesperson confirmed to Android Authority.
“Google TV gives users access to a wide range of free TV options, including local news, popular shows and movies,” Google says in a statement to the publication. “Since we launched free live TV options on Google TV, we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users, and this change will help provide a consistent experience with quick access at users’ fingertips.”
Android Authority says that Google didn’t share things like how big the button has to be, where it has to be, what color it has to be, or if the button is a regional or worldwide requirement.
Some Google TV devices already ship with a remote with a Free TV button, including Walmart’s Onn 4K Pro. For the remote for that device, the “Free TV” button is large, bright blue, and right in the middle.