Google TV has introduced a feature that may have been overlooked by many users, but has completely changed the way I perceive Google TV. The “Apps only mode” option, hidden within the account settings, eliminates all recommendations from the home screen, providing a cleaner and more streamlined experience.
By enabling this mode, you can hide Google’s recommendations, feedback options, and watchlist features, focusing solely on accessing the apps installed on the device. Combined with disabling recommendations in the YouTube app, this creates the perfect setup for users like me.
To access this mode, navigate to your account settings, select “Apps only mode,” toggle the switch, and confirm the changes. Despite the warnings, the difference in the home screen layout is immediately noticeable.
The navigation bar is streamlined, reducing tabs to a single “Home” option. The app icons are displayed in larger rows, providing easier access to installed apps. While the absence of Google Assistant and the Play Store icon limits app installation capabilities, the simplified interface offers a more Apple TV-like experience.
It’s important to ensure all desired apps are installed before enabling this mode to avoid frequent switching between modes. Once set up, the “Apps only mode” delivers a minimalist and focused user experience.
