When manufacturers build televisions, they need an Operating System (OS) to run the apps and the user interface. Some companies, like Samsung and LG, build their own proprietary systems (Tizen and webOS, respectively). These are functional and polished, but they are "closed" systems. They only run what the manufacturer allows.
When you see the term "Full Android TV" in product marketing, it generally implies Category 3: A complete, unskinned or lightly skinned, certified experience with all the Google bells and whistles. full android tv
If you want a media streamer for your family, buy an NVIDIA Shield Pro or a Chromecast with Google TV . The frustration of 480p Netflix is not worth saving $30. When manufacturers build televisions, they need an Operating
Standard Android TV devices get security patches. Full Android TV boxes almost never do. You buy it today with Android 11 or 12, but you will never see Android 13 or 14. Worse, if a vulnerability like "Stagefright" resurfaces, your box remains vulnerable forever. They only run what the manufacturer allows
If you decide to go down this route, do not buy the cheapest $20 stick. Look for these specifications: