Auto-correction on Android TV keyboards often feels more like a hassle than a helpful feature. Whether you’re typing in app names, search queries, or user credentials, the feature can misinterpret your input and change words unnecessarily. This is especially annoying when using a remote to input text, leading to unwanted corrections that slow down your interaction with the TV.
In this article, we’ll check all the ways to disable auto-correction on your Android TV. From built-in Gboard settings to alternative keyboards, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Auto-Correction Becomes an Issue on Android TV
- Inaccurate corrections: Words like names or technical terms get wrongly changed.
- Cumbersome editing: Fixing errors using a TV remote is time-consuming.
- Predictive distractions: The suggestions may confuse users who just want direct control over input.
Most Android TVs use Gboard as the default keyboard, which includes auto-correction by default. Fortunately, it’s easy to turn off once you know where to look.
Method 1: Disable Auto-Correction via Android TV Settings (Standard Gboard)
This is the most common method for turning off auto-correction.
Steps:
- Press the Home button on your remote.
- Navigate to Settings > Device Preferences > Keyboard.
- Select Gboard.
- Choose Text Correction.
- Toggle off Auto-correction.
You can also turn off other features here:
- Auto-capitalization
- Double-space for period
- Show suggestions
Method 2: For Sony Android TVs
Sony TVs may label settings slightly differently, but the flow is similar.
Steps:
- Press Home > Settings.
- Go to System > Keyboard.
- Confirm Gboard is selected as the default keyboard.
- Enter Gboard Settings > Text Correction.
- Turn off Auto-correction and other unwanted features.
Method 3: For TCL, Mi, and Other Android TVs
Different brands like TCL and Mi TVs might have a customized interface but follow the same principle.
Steps:
- Home > Settings > Device Preferences.
- Select Keyboard > Current Keyboard.
- Ensure Gboard is selected.
- Navigate to Text Correction.
- Toggle off Auto-correction.
Alternative Solutions When Settings Are Missing or Locked
Use a Personal Dictionary
To prevent specific words from being auto-corrected:
- Go to Settings > Keyboard > Gboard.
- Select Dictionary > Personal Dictionary.
- Tap the + icon to add custom words you often use.
This keeps unique names, slang, or technical terms safe from correction.
Switch to Voice Typing
- Open any typing field.
- Click the Microphone icon on the keyboard.
- Speak your input and it will appear as-is, with no auto-correction applied.
Voice typing can be fast and error-free, especially for long phrases.
Try an Alternative Keyboard
Install a simpler or more customizable keyboard:
- Open Google Play Store on Android TV.
- Search for apps like LeanKey Keyboard, Simple Keyboard, or others.
- Install and set it as default via Settings > Keyboard > Manage Keyboards.
Troubleshooting Common Keyboard Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Keyboard not appearing | Check if the correct keyboard is enabled under Manage Keyboards |
| Auto-correction still active | Reboot the device or uninstall Gboard updates |
| Missing Text Correction settings | Use alternative keyboard apps for more control |
Extra Tips for Better Typing on Android TV
- Disable predictive text: Turn off Show Suggestions or Next-Word Suggestions.
- Turn off auto-capitalization: Helps when entering passwords or usernames.
- Disable sound/vibration feedback: Optional for quieter typing.
- Language Settings: Add preferred languages or disable “Use system language” under Gboard > Languages.
Why Gboard is the Default Keyboard on Android TV
- Built-in support for voice typing in 30+ languages
- Fast interface optimized for TV
- Seamless integration with Android apps and services
Still, if Gboard’s features don’t suit your needs, switching to a simpler keyboard is a great option.
Conclusion
Disabling auto-correction on Android TV can dramatically improve your input accuracy and save time. Whether you use the standard Gboard settings, try an alternative keyboard, or switch to voice typing, Android TV gives you flexibility.
Explore the settings mentioned above based on your TV brand, and take full control of your text input experience—without frustrating corrections standing in your way.
