Google has fixed a security issue with Android TV: What does it mean for users?

By: Nastya Bobkova | 30.04.2024, 04:50
Google has fixed a security issue with Android TV: What does it mean for users?

Following accusations of security issues related to Google Chrome sideloading on Android TV devices, Google has announced changes aimed at protecting user privacy.

Here's What We Know

The problem was that Chrome sideloading used the Google account login token automatically, which allowed it to retain access to users' emails and other personal data.

In response to this, Google has made a change: now the third-party download of Google Chrome on Android TV will no longer use the Google account login token. This means that users will have to manually sign in to their Google account if they want to access Gmail or Google Drive through the browser on their TV.

While this may be a little inconvenient, this innovation will greatly improve security for Android TV users, especially those who share devices. In other words, it will keep personal data safe from minors and other users who may have access to the device.

Google advises users to be careful not to sign in to their personal Google accounts on shared devices and to use fictitious TV accounts to separate recommendations and viewing history on shared TVs.

The software update for Android TV is already available.

Source: Android Authority