Is version 617.391 the most feature-rich? No. Does it support the new HDR10+ dynamic metadata? Probably not. Does it have the AI-generated chapter thumbnails? No.
But "better" in engineering means doing a few things perfectly. Version 617.391 plays the video. It skips the sponsor segments. It removes the ads. And it leaves your CPU alone.
In the race to add "AI recommendations" and "dynamic UI scaling," the developer of SmartTube (yuliskov) accidentally created a masterpiece at build 391. It is the car that starts every morning. It is the firmware that doesn't need a reboot.
If you are running a newer build and your remote feels sluggish, or your audio drifts out of sync—you know what to do.
Downgrade to 617.391. Stay there. Ignore the update nag. You have reached the endgame.
Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes regarding open-source software optimization. Always respect content creators by supporting them directly via Patreon or Memberships, as blocking ads removes their revenue.
The reason "617 391" became a search trend is the passionate community behind it. After installing, visit r/SmartTubeNext on Reddit. You will find custom themes, beta version 392 (which adds AI chapter detection), and support for exotic devices.
Remember: The "better" in smart youtube tv 617 391 better refers to a better user experience—not just better specs. In an era where streaming services raise prices and insert ads, Smart YouTube TV version 391 is a rare example of software that puts the viewer first. smart youtube tv 617 391 better
Install it today. Watch ad-free tonight. Never look back.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Ad blocking may violate YouTube’s ToS. Use at your discretion and consider supporting creators you enjoy via direct methods (Patreon, merch, or Super Thanks if you re-enable ads).
Smart YouTube TV version 6.17.391, released in June 2020, provided a stable, ad-free experience for Android TV that supported 4K resolution and operated independently of Google Play Services. The app has since been succeeded by the actively maintained SmartTube, which offers added features like SponsorBlock, higher resolution support, and improved customization. For more details, visit SmartTube's GitHub page.
yuliskov/SmartTube: Browse media content with your ... - GitHub
If you want, I can convert this into a printable one‑page checklist, a step‑by‑step router QoS setup for common router brands, or tune the guide specifically for your device (Roku, Chromecast with Google TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, or a smart TV).
Related search suggestions coming next.
While version 6.17.391 was a stable release in June 2020, it is no longer considered the "better" or recommended option for modern hardware . Is version 617
Smart YouTube TV (Legacy): Version 6.17.391 and its successor 6.17.697 are now largely deprecated. They were designed for older Android versions (4.0+) but often struggle with modern 4K playback and updated YouTube API requirements .
SmartTube (The Successor): The developer has moved on to a new project called SmartTube (formerly SmartTubeNext). This is the modern version that is significantly "better" for current users because it supports: SponsorBlock (automatically skips sponsored segments). 4K/HDR/60FPS video playback. No ads and a modernized UI. Regular updates for newer Android TV/Fire TV firmware. Recommendation
If you are looking for a "helpful paper" or guide on which to use, the consensus in the Android TV community is to switch to SmartTube. It resolves the performance issues and bugs present in the older 6.17.x versions of Smart YouTube TV.
You can find the latest stable releases and installation guides on the official GitHub repository for SmartTube.
Are you trying to install this on a specific device like a Firestick, NVIDIA Shield, or a built-in Smart TV? Knowing the hardware can help me give you the exact installation steps.
Smart YouTube TV 6.17.391 (noarch) (Android 4.0+) - APKMirror
Version:6.17.697(1277) for Android 4.0+ (Ice Cream Sandwich, API 14) File size:7.47 MB. File size:5.98 MB. Smart YouTube TV 6.17.391 APK Download by yuliskov Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes regarding
Before we dive into the version numbers, let’s clarify the software. Smart YouTube TV (often abbreviated as SmartYTV) is not an official Google product. Instead, it is a third-party, open-source application designed specifically for Android-based TV devices (like NVIDIA Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Fire TV Stick, and even built-in Google TV systems).
Why does it exist? Because the official YouTube app for TV has become bloated. It pushes YouTube Shorts, aggressive ads, and sponsored recommendations while hiding the content you actually want to see. Smart YouTube TV strips away the noise, offering a lean-back experience that mirrors the old, beloved YouTube interface but with modern backend power.
Typically, staying behind on software is a security risk. But with SmartTube, the opposite is often true.
Newer builds (630+) required the developer to request "Overlay Permissions" to handle the new "Mini Player" mode. This permission is a massive security vector. A bug in the overlay code could allow a malicious sponsor ad (if the ad blocker fails) to draw over your system settings.
Version 617.391 uses the native Android PiP (Picture-in-Picture) framework provided by the OS. It doesn't ask for weird permissions. It doesn't try to modify your system draw layer. It stays in its sandbox.
This title is cryptic at first glance, but for a specific subculture of cord-cutters and Android TV purists, it represents a revolution in software optimization.