Jellyfin for Android TV is a dedicated media player application designed to bring your personal media collection to the big screen. It transforms your Android TV or Google TV device into a powerful hub for all your movies, shows, music, and photos.
What is Jellyfin for Android TV?
Jellyfin for Android TV is an open-source client application for the Jellyfin media server. Its primary purpose is to allow users to browse and play content from their self-hosted Jellyfin server directly on a television. The app is targeted at cord-cutters and home media enthusiasts who want a private, customizable alternative to commercial streaming services. It provides a clean, TV-optimized interface for navigating large personal libraries.
Why Should You Use Jellyfin for Android TV?
Users choose this app for its commitment to privacy, lack of fees or subscriptions, and full control over their media. It is the official and most feature-complete way to experience a Jellyfin server on a television. Key advantages include:
No tracking or premium licenses.
Direct integration with your existing server.
A user experience designed specifically for TV navigation.
Key Features of Jellyfin for Android TV
Server Connectivity: Easily find and connect to Jellyfin servers on your local network or remotely via secure external access.
10-Foot User Interface: Navigate your media library effortlessly from your couch using a remote control.
Extensive Media Support: Plays a vast array of video, audio, and image formats, often without needing server transcoding.
User Profiles & Parental Controls: Supports switching between multiple user accounts with individualized PIN locks and content restrictions.
Live TV & DVR: View live television streams and manage recorded content if your Jellyfin server has that functionality configured.
Additional Features
Customization
The app offers various themes and layout options to personalize your browsing experience.
Playback Options
It includes robust player controls for subtitles, audio tracks, and playback speed.
Voice Search Support
You can use your remote’s microphone for voice-driven searches within your library.
How to Download and Install Jellyfin for Android TV
1. On your Android TV device, navigate to the Google Play Store.
2. Use the search function to find "Jellyfin for Android TV".
3. Select the app from the search results and click "Install".
4. Wait for the download and installation process to complete.
5. Open the app from your app list or the Play Store page.
How to Use Jellyfin for Android TV
1. Upon launching, the app will prompt you to add a server. It will automatically scan for servers on your local network.
2. Select your server from the list or manually enter its address.
3. Choose a user profile and enter your password to log in.
4. Browse your library by categories like Movies, Shows, Music, or Photos.
5. Select any item to see its details and press play to start streaming.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
Completely free and open-source software with no hidden costs.
The interface is fast, responsive, and perfectly tailored for televisions.
It respects user privacy by keeping all data on your own server.
Cons
Requires you to already have a Jellyfin server set up and running.
Advanced server setup for remote access can be technically challenging for beginners.
Is Jellyfin for Android TV Safe to Use?
Yes, Jellyfin for Android TV is safe to use. As an open-source project, its code can be publicly audited for security issues. The app only requests necessary permissions for media playback and network access to communicate with your server. It does not contain ads or collect personal data.
Compatible Apps or Tools
This application is designed to work exclusively with a Jellyfin media server, which can be installed on Windows, Linux, macOS, or via Docker. Other Jellyfin clients for mobile or desktop can access the same server.
FAQs
Do I need a Jellyfin server to use this app?
Yes, this app is a client and requires a separately installed Jellyfin server to provide content.
Is there a cost associated with Jellyfin for Android TV?
No, the app is completely free to download and use.
Does it support 4K HDR playback?
Yes, the app supports direct play of 4K and HDR content if your Android TV device and server support the file format.
Can I use it with an NVIDIA Shield or Fire TV Stick?
Yes, it is compatible with all devices running Android TV or Google TV, including the Shield and Fire TV Sticks.
Conclusion
Jellyfin for Android TV is an essential application for anyone invested in the Jellyfin ecosystem. It delivers a polished, professional, and private media browsing experience that is superior to using a generic web browser on a TV. For those who value ownership and control over their media, this app is the definitive client for the big screen.
