
Owners of “smart” televisions running on Google TV have started reporting issues directly tied to the search functionality. The core of this problem appears to stem from the integrated Gemini AI, which was intended to streamline the user experience, but has instead introduced malfunctions.
According to reports from 3DNews, Google began rolling out Gemini integration to compatible TV models starting in the fall of last year. It first appeared on TCL QM9K sets, followed by devices from other manufacturers. Nevertheless, numerous owners observed that the search feature on their televisions ceased functioning correctly following the update.
The glitch surfaces specifically during the setup process for the voice assistant. The screen initially displays details regarding Gemini’s capabilities, subsequently requesting access to private information—such as pictures or calendar entries—to facilitate personalized search results. Following this, the user is prompted to select an assistant voice. Due to the error, the system restarts this identical procedure every single time the user attempts to use the search function.
A video shared on Reddit illustrates how an attempt to locate an application results in an infinite loop: instead of yielding the desired result, the television repeatedly redirects back to the Gemini setup menu. Users indicate that this recurrence happens irrespective of whether they grant permission for personalized search or decline it.
Many Google TV owners have encountered a similar quandary following the most recent software update. One affected individual mentioned achieving a temporary fix by uninstalling the new version of the operating system altogether.