Android TV Gains D-Pad Controls for Google Home App

Google Home now lets you use a D-pad control for your Android TV device. Prior to this, the app only let you use ‘Swipe Control’, which didn’t always work like you expected.

This feature was first spotted by Reddit user PhilStation on the Android TV subreddit. He claimed that Google Home v2.47.1.0 now has the option for D-pad controls when you connect to your Android TV.

Just last month, Google had updated its Google Home Android app to add a built-in remote to control your Android TV or Google TV. The remote feature was a godsend for when you would inevitably misplace your TV’s remote control. This feature, however, has not arrived on iOS yet. iOS users will have to resume their frantic search for their lost remote controls under their couch cushions and blankets.

Previously, you had only one option for navigation, “Swipe”—to swipe across a large touchpad interface. Moreover, buttons are placed below the touchpad, to mimic an actual remote’s back and home buttons. It also comes with buttons for a Google Assistant shortcut, volume, mute, as well as on and off. A keyboard automatically appears when you’re asked to, say, type in your login details. Despite these features, the absence of a D-pad was sorely felt.

To view the newly added D-pad controls, however, you may need Google Home v2.47.1. You can update your Google Home app to the latest version on the Play Store.

Are you able to view the D-pad on your app? Let us know in the comments if it’s working for you.