Android is dominating the mobile market and accounts for 70.29% of the mobile operating systems, but does that translate to the best viewing experience from its Android TV? Industry reports indicate that it is the fastest-growing platform in the Smart TV arena. On the other hand, Samsung Tizen is the most popular range of smart TVs with a 35% share. These two contenders have features that are ideal for different users. To help you make an informed decision for your signage system, read this guide to get a comparative analysis of their different features and how they might influence the performance of your digital signage.
Intro to Samsung Tizen OS and Android TV
What is Samsung Tizen OS?
Samsung Tizen OS is an operating system developed by Samsung and Intel. It is a Linux-based open-source operating system that is used in various Samsung devices, including smart TVs, mobile devices, home appliances, and even smart signage.
The operating system originated from the Linux-based MeeGo project, which was a collaboration between Nokia and Intel. However, after Nokia shifted its focus to Windows Phone, Samsung saw an opportunity to develop its Linux-based platform and partnered with Intel to create Tizen.
Tizen OS is smart enough to automatically detect and identify the sources connected to the TV, such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, or media players.
As a way to provide a better control experience, Samsung used Tizen OS to introduce the One Remote, which acts as a universal remote control for multiple devices connected to the TV.
What is Android TV?
Android TV is a platform developed by Google specifically for smart TVs. It was first introduced in 2014 as a successor to Google TV.
Android TV is built on the Android operating system, and offers a comprehensive entertainment experience. It provides users with access to various streaming services, apps, and games directly on their televisions.
Android TV supports voice commands through integration with Google Assistant for controlling the TV using voice interactions.
Over the years, Google has collaborated with multiple manufacturers to include Android TV in their smart TV models which has expanded its user base.
Samsung Tizen OS vs Android TV - A Comparative Analysis
User Interface and User Experience
Tizen OS: Tizen OS has a much cleaner interface with large icons and easy-to-follow menus. Samsung's Smart Hub neatly organizes all your content sources and apps in a convenient bottom bar for quick access. While you can rearrange some elements, Tizen doesn't allow the deep level of interface personalization found on Android TV.
Android TV: Its interface is similar to the mobile version which may be a familiar layout for Android users. Users have the flexibility to rearrange apps, add widgets for quick information, and even install entirely different launchers to alter the look and feel of the interface. However, this high degree of customization can sometimes lead to a slightly more cluttered or potentially complex experience, especially if you’re new to the platform.
App Ecosystem
Tizen OS: While smooth and user-friendly, it has a noticeably smaller app ecosystem than Android TV. You'll still find all the core streaming essentials such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and others, but the overall selection of apps and games is more limited. Tizen OS does have its app store, but the choice is less extensive than what you'll find on Android TV's Google Play Store.
Android TV: Android TV has an enormous collection of streaming services, games, utilities, and more on the Google Play Store. This translates to finding virtually any major app you desire, including top picks like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, HBO Max, and countless others. If you enjoy mobile gaming, the selection of games optimized for the big screen on Android TV is also substantial.
Performance and Speed
Tizen OS: Given that Tizen OS is specifically designed and optimized for Samsung smart TVs, it’s generally more responsive. You can expect faster boot-up times, smoother navigation within menus, and quicker app launching compared to most Android TV devices.
Android TV: Android TV's performance can be somewhat inconsistent, depending heavily on the hardware specifications of the individual TV or streaming device. High-end Android TVs with powerful processors rival Tizen's smoothness, but less expensive or older models might suffer from occasional sluggishness.
Customization and Personalization
Tizen OS: Tizen OS offers some customization but in a more structured approach:
- You can rearrange the order of apps and adjust some settings, but the degree of layout flexibility is less than on Android TV.
- Choose from a selection of pre-set themes to change the overall look and color scheme of your interface.
- Tizen doesn't allow for deep customization changes like installing third-party launchers.
Android TV: Android TV gives you a wide range of options to personalize your experience, you can:
- Reorder app tiles, add or remove channels, and customize recommendations for a layout that suits your viewing habits.
- Change the entire look and feel of your interface with third-party launchers available on the Play Store.
- Add widgets from your favorite apps to your home screen for things like weather, news, and sports scores.
- Install apps outside of the Google Play Store, opening a world of further customization possibilities.
Security and Privacy
Tizen OS: Samsung keeps a tighter grip on Tizen OS, which generally helps make it a bit more secure than Android TV. It has built-in protection and frequently released security updates. Keep in mind that Samsung and apps on its platform still collect some of your data to improve recommendations.
Android TV: The popularity of Android TV tends to make it more vulnerable to security issues. It's important to always install the latest updates and be careful about where you get your apps. Like other Google products, Android TV does collect some of your data to personalize your experience. You can manage and limit this to some degree, but it requires being proactive with your settings.
Hardware Compatibility
Tizen OS: If you want Tizen OS, you're essentially locked into buying a Samsung smart TV. And while Samsung offers a range of TVs across different price points, your hardware selection is significantly narrower compared to the extent of Android TV devices.
If you’re using the Look content manager, it’s important to note that currently, the Look app is not directly installable on the Tizen OS. So if you’re set on a Samsung Smart TV, there’s no need to worry since you can always use you an external media player to support playback.
Android TV: Android TV is compatible with most devices. You'll find it not only on smart TVs from brands like Sony, Philips, TCL, and Hisense but also on stand-alone streaming devices like the NVIDIA Shield TV, Chromecast with Google TV, and many others. This gives you significant flexibility in choosing the hardware that best suits your needs and budget.
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Which is Better for What?
Best for Smart TVs: Tizen OS
Samsung Tizen OS is simple to use and reliable in performance which might be the best choice if you intend your signage to offer streaming services for instance in hotel rooms or for accessing basic apps.
Best for Streaming Devices: Android TV
As we mentioned earlier, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to apps, hardware devices, and customization options with an Android TV. The flexibility of diverse hardware makes it ideal for standalone streaming devices. You’ll have greater app support and the adaptability to meet specific content needs of your audience.
Making a choice - Samsung Tizen OS or Android TV?
The choice between Samsung Tizen OS and Android TV ultimately boils down to your specific business needs and preferences. Go for Tizen OS for a simple and smooth performance and integration with other Samsung hardware. It's ideal if you’re comfortable with a slightly less customizable experience which is more suitable for basic digital signage needs.
Android TV is perfect for users who enjoy flexibility, a wider array of applications, and the option to use stand-alone streaming devices beyond the ones available on the smart TV. This makes it a strong option if your digital signage requires more extensive content management and diverse app support.
