Philips has started rolling out a major software update for some of its Android TVs. Android 7.0 (Nougat) adds features such as Chromecast 4K and HLG HDR support as well as HDR and Dolby Digital Plus support for the Amazon app.

Android 7.0 for Philips TVs
The update will roll out gradually and it will take many weeks – or months – for it to reach Philips Android TVs in all regions. Philips has pushed the button and says that 2016 models are first in line, with 2017 models to follow later.  

With Android version 7.0 – or Android Nougat – the TVs gain support for HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma), which is a HDR format for live broadcast and streaming. Another new feature is support for Chromecast 4K, meaning that when casting from 4K sources such as YouTube and Netflix you will now get video in full resolution.

Philips has told us that the update will also bring HDR and Dolby Digital Plus support to the Amazon Video blog.



Besides some of the Philips-specific features, the software update will add general Android features such as app recording. It is up to the app developer to take advantage of these APIs. In addition, you will be able to use multiple Google accounts on the same TV.

Android 7.0 will be available for 2016 and 2017 Philips Android TVs. The company has decided not to update 2015 models that are based on a different technical platform. This is in contrast to Sony who is planning to update all of its models dating back to 2015. Both Sony and Philips started selling Android TVs in the spring of 2015.

Philips has yet to comment on its plans for Android 8.0, which will introduce a new user interface on TVs. Android 8.0 was released for the Nexus Player earlier this month.

The update will be pushed to your TV automatically over the coming weeks or months once the server is ready. You can also check the update menu manually to see if it is available.

 
Android 7.0 (Nougat) on Philips TV
 
 When: Week 38 and onwards
 
 
 Affected models:
2016 Philips Android TV (end on 01 – i.e. 6501)
2017 Philips Android TV (ends on 02 –i.e. 7202)
 
 
 New features:
Improved Overall system performance
Amazon HDR Support
Amazon DD+ Support
Improved Browser compared to Android M
HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) functionality
Chromecast 4K support
Multiple Google accounts support for your TV 
Support of cable operator Teleing for Slovenia 
Reduced Upgrade time (in progress)
Enhanced Security (SELinux Policies)
App recording