Google expands Gemini AI to TV interface at CES 2026

At the CES 2026 event in Las Vegas, Google is showcasing new Gemini AI features that are scheduled to arrive on Google TV devices soon. This expansion follows Google’s initial integration of its Gemini AI into Google TV devices in November. The upcoming features are designed to allow users to interact with their televisions using natural language conversation rather than navigating traditional menus. Users will be able to use spoken commands to search for content, ask for recommendations, and control their devices. For example, viewers can ask for recommendations that blend the distinct tastes of two different people, or describe a plot or actor to identify a movie when they cannot recall the title.

Beyond content discovery, the integration introduces a visually rich framework for Gemini’s responses, which can combine text, imagery, video context, and real-time sports updates. The system also allows users to query their Google Photos library to find specific people or moments, apply artistic styles to their media, and generate cinematic slideshows. Additionally, the TV interface can serve an educational purpose. When a user asks a question about a topic they want to learn about, the screen can display a narrated interactive overview to simplify concepts, allowing the user to ask follow-up questions to explore the subject further.

The conversational interface also extends to device control. Users can adjust television settings directly by voice—for example, by stating that the screen is too dim or the dialogue is difficult to hear—allowing the AI to modify the settings without requiring the user to open separate configuration menus.

The rollout of these new features will begin with select TCL televisions before Google expands availability to other Google TV devices in the subsequent months. To access the Gemini features, devices must run Android TV OS 14 or higher, maintain an active internet connection, and be linked to a Google account. Google has noted that support will be limited at launch, as not all languages, countries, or devices will be compatible when the features first roll out.

Why it matters

Google is shifting the TV interface from static menus to a conversational AI experience, allowing users to search, control settings, and interact with media using natural language.