SmartTubeNext (formerly known as SmartTube) is a free, open-source YouTube client designed specifically for Android TV, Fire TV Stick, and similar TV-based devices. It allows users to watch YouTube videos without ads, without Google Play Services, and with enhanced features like SponsorBlock, background playback, and full HD support. Developed by Yuriy L, SmartTubeNext is designed to replace the default YouTube app on smart TVs with a more privacy-focused, customizable, and responsive experience.
Features
- Ad-Free Viewing: Watch YouTube videos without any ads—no pre-rolls, mid-rolls, or banner interruptions.
- SponsorBlock Integration: Automatically skips intros, sponsored segments, and outros based on crowd-sourced data.
- No Google Play Services Required: Works perfectly on devices without Google services (ideal for rooted TVs or stripped-down Android TV boxes).
- Background Playback: Supports audio-only mode and picture-in-picture (PiP) so videos keep playing while multitasking.
- High-Quality Streaming: Supports 4K, HDR, 60fps, and 8K where available.
- Intuitive UI: TV-optimized, responsive interface with customizable themes, layout, and categories like News, Gaming, Music, and more.
- Multi-Language Support: Change the app’s language and content region to access localized videos and settings.
- YouTube Account Integration: Log in to access subscriptions, playlists, history, and liked videos (optional).
- Powerful Player Controls: Adjust video quality, buffering, volume/brightness swipe controls, and enable/disable preview thumbnails.
- Music & Breaking News Tabs: Access trending music content and real-time breaking news without any interruptions.
- Fast Navigation: UI designed for D-pad TV remotes, with smooth scrolling and category-based content discovery.
