Blog

Why is Android OS a Good Choice for Your Digital Signage Needs?

Why Choose Android for Digital Signage?

Android, a leading operating system comparable to Microsoft Windows, excels in digital signage applications. Its native content delivery capabilities ensure performance and features that match or even exceed those of Windows-based PCs. Android stands out as the top choice for digital signage on System-on-Chip (SoC) and external standalone devices. Differing from Chrome OS, Tizen, or WebOS, Android enables the use of highly powerful native applications and provides software developers complete control over both the operating system and hardware components, making it the most versatile and effective platform for digital signage.

Large organizations already manage employees’ Android devices using mobile device management software and device certification. The CMS is in full control, from software design to post installation updates.

The Benefits of Android Digital Signage

For those embarking on a digital signage venture, Android digital signage is a compelling option. Its significant market presence is backed by solid reasons:

Proven Longevity: Android OS has been operational for over 13 years.
Support from a Tech Giant: It’s supported by Google, a global tech leader.
Solid Foundation: The system is rooted in the widely respected Linux operating system.
Versatile Functionality: Initially designed for mobile uses, Android now functions across a broad spectrum of devices.

Popular and Dependable Software

When you look at the variety of digital signage software available, Android-based apps stand out as both popular and dependable. Android is an excellent choice for digital signage due to its user-friendliness and a broad array of features:

Flexible Orientation: Android devices adapt easily to both portrait and landscape orientations.
Robust Networking: It supports both Wi-Fi and wired connections for networking.
Multitasking Capabilities: Included by default.
High-Resolution Support: Natively supports common screen resolutions, including Full HD and 4K.
Reliability: Makes Android suited for continuous, round-the-clock operation.

Additionally, Android offers access to a large ecosystem of software applications. A simple Google search reveals numerous remote control apps for remote device management, crucial for professional digital signage setups. This remote control feature simplifies technical troubleshooting without the need for on-site visits, reducing travel expenses.

Android Digital Signage Takes on Windows

Before Android entered the scene, Microsoft Windows was the main choice for digital signage, largely because of Windows PCs being used as media players. While Windows remains a top choice for setups involving multiple screens controlled by a single player, it has lost a significant market share to Android in digital signage. The shift was driven by factors like high OS licensing costs, increased support fees, and the expense of PC hardware.

Switching to Android digital signage offers several advantages over Windows PCs:

Compact and Concealable: Android devices are smaller and can be easily concealed behind digital signage screens.
Power Efficiency: They can be powered directly from a display’s USB ports, which simplifies setup.
Performance: Although Windows PCs are available in compact “Stick” forms, they often lack the power needed for commercial digital signage, making Android a more suitable option for many users.

Android vs Windows

People who purchase Android devices don’t need to worry about the dreaded “Microsoft tax” because there are no fees associated with open-source operating systems. This makes Android devices much less expensive than their Windows counterparts.

Windows PCs receive constant updates from Microsoft. These updates are published quite often and have proven to be extremely disruptive for digital signage operators. They are difficult to disable and almost impossible to ignore.

Windows PCs must be rebooted whenever a new operating system update has been installed. This is necessary so the OS can apply the latest changes. However, rebooting a PC is also quite disruptive because while the update process is taking place, no content can be shown on screen. The screen blanks out or shows a Windows notification message which renders the digital signage non-functional.

The Windows operating system generally requires more hardware resources than Android. Windows PCs tend to feature more expensive video cards and more memory to support multiple screens. Windows has a larger footprint so more storage is required on the standalone player device to accommodate the operating system.

Configuring Windows for digital signage use is more complicated than for Android. For example, some applications require editing the Windows registry to disable features that are incompatible with digital signage use. It’s important to note Android has none of these issues so you can fire up the device, log in and you’re done.

Windows is a popular target for malware and computer viruses. Hardening a Windows PC requires installing and configuring an anti-virus app. Android devices don’t need additional security software.

Navori and Android Digital Signage

Navori Labs quickly saw the potential in the Android operating system and developed its own Android-based standalone player software, Navori Player. This proprietary software can be installed on various devices, including Navori Labs’ own Navori Stix 3800, a standalone player designed specifically for Android. The Stix 3800 broadcasts content in 4K with full Navori CMS feature support.

Unlike some digital signage players that use consumer-grade parts, Navori Stix devices are built for demanding professional environments that need reliable operation around the clock. Navori Player for Android is not only cost-effective and easy to set up but also requires little support and provides professional-grade performance. It works seamlessly with Navori’s Content Manager, allowing users to manage their player network from anywhere through a user-friendly HTML5 interface.

Benefits of Using Android Media Players

Android offers several features that make it a top choice for digital signage, including:

Vast App Selection: Android’s extensive app marketplace allows you to find the perfect app for your needs, making it versatile for any digital signage application.
High Customizability: You can tailor your digital signage to align with your brand, creating a unique and cohesive brand experience.
User-Friendly: Its straightforward and intuitive nature makes Android accessible for users of all technical backgrounds.

For an efficient and engaging way to connect with your audience, Android digital signage stands out as a superior option.

About the Android Operating System

Android, developed by Google, is a mobile operating system built on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software. Initially created for touchscreen devices like smartphones and tablets, Android is versatile enough to handle more complex applications.

Expanding its ecosystem, Google has adapted Android for various platforms including Android TV for televisions, Android Auto for cars, and Wear OS for wristwatches, each featuring a tailored user interface. Android also powers a range of devices beyond mobile, such as game consoles, digital cameras, PCs, and media players, showcasing its flexibility across different types of electronics.

Why Are Android Media Players So Popular for Digital Signage?

Android media players are grabbing an increasingly large portion of the digital signage market while Windows PCs are relegated to the video walls and niche applications. Why is that?

About Android-Based Digital Signage

Android is a mobile operating system that builds on the Linux kernel and other open-source software, renowned for its reliability. It is widely used in Android-based digital signage players and interactive tablets.

Android also operates in consumer electronics like Google Chromecast and TV Sticks. However, these devices are intended for casual use, such as home entertainment, and do not meet the demands of commercial digital signage applications. They lack the necessary features for dependable, continuous operation all year round and are not suitable for professional digital signage purposes.

Android Digital Signage Features

Android media players often provide applications and functionalities comparable to those found on Windows PCs.

Remote Control Applications: Tools like TeamViewer are available for Android, offering valuable remote support capabilities.
Networking Capabilities: Both Wi-Fi and wired connections are fully supported by Android media players.
Hardware Control: Devices like the Navori Stix 3800 feature HDMI-CEC support, allowing for automatic screen on/off control.
Expandable Storage: Android devices often include SD card slots for additional storage.
High-Resolution Support: Android devices like the Navori Stix 3800 support 4K resolution and can manage multiple displays, making them ideal for applications such as restaurant menu boards and video walls.

Cost Effectiveness of Android Digital Signage Players

Android digital signage players are typically much more affordable than Windows PCs. Here’s why:

Lower Hardware Requirements: Android players don’t need the same level of customization or expandability as PCs. There’s no need to upgrade RAM or GPU, and many include an SD card slot for additional storage if needed.
Functionality Out of the Box: Android media players meet the needs of digital signage applications right from the start, without additional modifications.
No Licensing Fees: Unlike Windows, there is no “Microsoft tax” on Android devices. Android is based on an open-source platform, so there are no costly OS licensing fees that would otherwise increase the overall deployment costs significantly, impacting your budget.

Reliability

The reliability of Android as a mobile operating system, which powers the majority of the world’s smartphones and tablets, is one key reason for its rising popularity in digital signage. Unlike Windows, which is infamous for the “blue screen of death,” Android offers stability that is essential for media players.

Given that most digital signage operates continuously, around the clock, the durability and dependability of the system are critical. Android media players, particularly purpose-built devices like Navori’s Stix media players, have demonstrated exceptional reliability.

Navori Introduces the StiX 3800

Next Gen AI-Signage Player

The StiX 3800 uses Navori’s professional native player, offering up to eight times better performance than the industry standard web player. It also has the power reserve to support new features and more advanced content over time.

Powerful Performance native (4K@60fps)
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
AI-Enhanced Audience Analytics: Footfall & Dwell Time
Screen Status Monitoring
Hands-Free Setup
Industrial Durability: MTBF 50k Hours
Eco-Aware Viewer Detection