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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →If a custom launcher opens when you select it but does not appear after startup, first check the device’s restart, update, and Home-button behavior. Google TV does not have a source-backed universal setting that makes every third-party launcher start automatically; the right workaround depends on the TV or streaming device and its software.
Start with the checks that are safe and reversible
- Record the setup. Note the TV or streaming device model, Android/Google TV version, launcher name and version, and whether the issue happens after a full restart, waking from standby, or both. Those details are needed before applying a device-specific workaround.
- Restart the device. Use the restart option in Settings if it is available. Google’s general troubleshooting guidance recommends restarting for problems with a Google TV device; menu paths and labels can vary by model. See Google’s troubleshooting steps.
- Check for updates. Look for updates to both the launcher and the device’s system software. Google includes app and system updates among its general troubleshooting checks. A current app or system does not, by itself, guarantee that a third-party launcher will be selected at startup.
- Force-stop a troublesome app if appropriate. Google lists force-stopping recently opened apps as a general performance step. This may help if an app is misbehaving, but it is not a setting for choosing a launcher at boot.
- Check Quick Start, if the device offers it. Google documents the path as Settings > System > Power & Energy on supported devices. The option relates to startup behavior, not selection of a custom Home app; availability and steps vary by device. Consult Google’s device troubleshooting guidance and the manufacturer’s instructions.
Find out whether the launcher itself works
Open the custom launcher directly from the device’s app list. If it will not open, focus on its installation or compatibility before investigating startup behavior. If it opens normally but does not appear after a restart or wake, the problem is more likely about which app handles Home or how the device behaves during startup.
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Android TV developer documentation explains how an app declares an activity that makes it available as a TV launcher. That declaration concerns TV app visibility and launchability; it is not a promise that the operating system will start the app automatically after boot. See Android’s TV app development guidance.
Check what the Home button does
Press Home on the remote and note which screen appears. This helps distinguish a launcher that is installed and manually usable from one that the device does not use for Home. If Home continues to open the stock interface, a custom launcher’s presence in the app list has not changed the device’s Home behavior.
#1 Best Overall
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
The LetiHome project documents an accessibility-based approach to remapping the Home button on devices that support it. It is a workaround, not a Google TV setting, and behavior can vary by device. Before relying on it, check whether the accessibility service remains enabled through the restart or update that triggers your problem. The project’s instructions are in its README.
Use ADB only when the instructions match your device
The same LetiHome README also describes disabling the stock launcher through ADB for some Chromecast with Google TV and Philips Android TV configurations. That does not establish compatibility with other models or software versions. Do not copy a package name or disable a system app from instructions written for a different device.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
- Confirm that the documented procedure applies to your exact model and software before making changes.
- Keep a known way to restore the stock launcher and recover the original Home behavior.
- Do not disable additional packages unless model-specific instructions support doing so.
- If you cannot verify the device match or confidently reverse the change, do not proceed with ADB.
The project documentation describes these approaches for certain devices but does not establish consistent success rates or a universally preferred method. Community discussion, including this Google TV Community thread, can provide context but should not be treated as official Google policy.
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What to include when asking for a device-specific fix
If the checks above do not identify the cause, include the exact device model, Android/Google TV version, launcher name and version, and whether the failure occurs after a full restart, standby wake, or both. Also say whether the launcher opens manually and what the remote’s Home button opens. Without those specifics, an ADB command or compatibility claim would be guesswork.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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- Say it and watch it. The power of voice control makes it easy to find shows. Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights and more.
- One place for all your favorite streaming apps. TiVo Stream 4K includes Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock plus many more, so you can get to your shows fast.
- TiVo Stream 4K is one of Time Magazine’s “2020 Best Inventions, Special Mention” and PCMag hails it as “an excellent media streamer for TV lovers.” Operating Temperature 0˚C - 40˚C
Rank #4
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Rank #3
- 4K Ultra HD Resolution: Enjoy your TV in stunning resolution Ultra HD ers four times the resolution of Full HD for greater clarity and detail
- Android TV: With the Android TV operating system you will have access to the best content, download the infinity of applications available through the Google Play Store!
- Voice remote control: Just press the Google Assistant button and ask it to find, play and control content
- Chromecast Built-in: Easily cast movies, shows, and photos from your Android or iOS device to your Android TV
- Easy Setup: Access your Google account and configure the device, language and Wi-Fi network
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