Google Android TV certification project process and testing content

1. What content is required for Android TV test certification?

 Android TV is an application service package specially designed for televisions and set-top box products launched by Google, allowing users to watch videos, play music and games, and screen mirror from other devices using their favorite apps.

Compared to AOSP, Android TV provides the following features:

1.1. Leanback Launcher (TV desktop)

1.2. Google Services (Google apps such as Google Play, YouTube, Play Movie & TV, Play Games, etc.)

1.3. Search and Assistant

1.4. Google Cast (screen casting)

1.5. GOTA (Google Over-The-Air upgrade platform)

2. Android TV Testing and Certification Project Process

2.1 Select a hardware solution based on requirements, taking into consideration its technical feasibility.

2.2 Choose a suitable Android development system.

2.3 Submit product information for sublicense, pending approval by Google.

2.4 Apply for whitelist keys and relevant software packages.

2.5 Provide test samples for testing, debugging, and modification.

2.6 Upon passing the tests, upload the report and await Google‘s approval for certification completion.

3. Android TV certification testing content

3.1. CTS: Android platform compatibility, CDD + Android SDK/NDK/APIs.  

3.2. GTS: Verify correct integration of GMS applications, streaming media playback, etc.

3.3.  STS: Test inclusion of Security patches.

3.4. VTS: Test HAL, drivers, and kernel after replacing GSI.

3.5. CTS-ON-GSI: Compatibility testing after replacing GSI.

3.6. TVTS: Verify performance of GMS applications.

3.7. SmokeTest: Manual testing to verify functionality and layout compliance.

3.8. CtsVerifier: Supplemental testing for CTS testing, requires manual judgement.

3.9. BTS: Verify inclusion of patches and pre-installation of harmful applications.

4. Common issues in Android TV testing

4.1. The subjectivity of the smoke test is significant. If it is inconsistent with the requirements of the certification body, it is necessary to meet the requirements of the certification body or compare it with Google‘s own products in a timely manner and apply for a waiver.

4.2. For features such as high-definition videos on YouTube and Google Cast, certification is required for normal use, and a whitelist account needs to be requested from Google.

4.3. If some cases cannot pass all tests, running single cases again for testing may be necessary.

4.4. The completion of BTS scanning depends on Google servers and cannot be tested locally. Pre-testing needs to be completed in advance of one version.

5. Which agreements does Android TV certification require with Google?

5.1. NDA, grants access to Google‘s Help Center.

5.2. ACC, Google will establish a Project Tracker.

5.3. WV IDA, allows downloading copyrighted files encrypted by Google from designated servers.

5.4.TADA, allows downloading GTVS packages from Google, and enables access to APFE and relevant Google partner websites.