Sony SupportAndroid TV | Google TV (BRAVIA)

Article ID : 00405519 / Last Modified : 17/06/2026Print

Why do I need a Google Account to use apps and online services on my TV?


    Question: Why do I need a Google Account to use apps and online services on my TV?
    Applies to: BRAVIA 9 II, BRAVIA 7 II
    Answer: You can use your TV without signing in to a Google Account. However, the TV will operate in a limited signed-out mode, and internet-based apps and services will not be available until you sign in to a Google Account.

    IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check the Applicable Products and Categories section of this article before starting these steps.

    Can I use my TV without signing in to a Google Account?

    Yes. You can choose to use the TV without signing in to a Google Account.

    However, when no Google Account is added, the TV operates in a limited signed-out mode (used without a Google Account). In this mode, internet-based apps and services are unavailable.

    Important: Even if your TV is connected to the internet using Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable, internet-based apps and services remain unavailable until a Google Account is added.

    This behavior may differ from some previous TV models. On newer TV models, a Google Account is required to access internet-based apps and services.

    What can I do in signed-out mode?

    You can still use features that do not require a Google Account, including:

    • Watching TV broadcasts
    • Using devices connected through HDMI
    • Playing content from supported USB devices
    • Using other non-network TV functions

    What is not available in signed-out mode?

    Internet-based apps and services are unavailable when the TV is used without a Google Account.

    Many TV services, including streaming, catch-up TV, music, and other online services, are provided through applications (apps).

    Without a Google Account, these apps and the services they provide cannot be accessed.

    You may also notice that some Google TV features, recommendations, and content are not displayed on the Home screen.

    Why am I seeing prompts asking me to sign in?

    If your TV is connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable, it may display prompts encouraging you to complete Google Account setup.

    Signing in allows you to access internet-based apps and services, as well as other Google TV features.

    Why can't I access apps and services even though my TV is connected to the internet?

    Being connected to the internet is not enough to access network features on newer Google TV models.

    When the TV is operating in signed-out mode, internet-based apps and services remain unavailable until a Google Account is added to the TV.

    How do I create a Google Account?

    If you would like to access internet-based apps and services, you will need to sign in to a Google Account on your TV.

    You can create a Google Account by visiting the Google Account creation page:

    After creating an account, return to your TV and follow the on-screen instructions to complete sign-in.