What Is a Smart TV, Anyway?

In short, a smart TV connects directly to the Internet and has an operating system/platform that allows you to access, manage and view online and network-based media content like Hulu and Netflix without the need for additional devices like Roku or Firestick.

How Smart TVs Work

 

Smart TVs access online content by connecting to the same broadband router and Ethernet or Wi-Fi network that you use to connect your computer to the Internet. Ethernet provides the most stable connection, but Wi-Fi may be more convenient if your TV is in another room or far away from your router.

When you plug in your TV and turn it on, you will be prompted to enter the credentials required by your ISP. Smart TVs display an on-screen menu with a list of available internet channels offered as an app (similar to smartphone apps). Some apps are pre-installed and more can be downloaded and added to your TV's app library.

 

The Benefit of Smart TVs

A key advantage of smart TVs is that you can access many channels offering TV shows, movies, and music without connecting a TV antenna or subscribing to cable/satellite service. Some smart TVs also offer web browsing, gaming, and access to compatible media content stored on your computer.

Smart TVs can also receive TV programming via an antenna or cable/satellite, but Vizio has actually taken the bold step of eliminating built-in tuners and antenna/cable connections in most devices. , which employs an integrated streaming platform. -Inclusive exchange.

Additional Smart TV Features

Some smart TVs offer internet streaming as well as other features such as Miracast and screen sharing. It allows users to display content from compatible smartphones and tablets on her TV screen. Other names for this feature are SmartShare (LG) and SmartView (Samsung).

Some Smart TVs do the opposite. Send content from your TV to your compatible smartphone. Once aired, users can continue to watch this content on their smartphones regardless of their TV.

A Few Things to Consider

While the hype surrounding smart TVs is overwhelming, there are some cost considerations and limitations to be aware of.

The Smart TV platform offers access to many free channels and services, many of which require a monthly subscription or pay-per-view fee. Combined, these costs can cost as much as or more than your monthly cable/satellite bill. On the other hand, you only pay for the channels and content you need.

Can Smart TVs Spy on You?

Using smart TVs can lead to privacy issues. Smart TV and content app providers typically track your viewing habits to provide viewing suggestions. For example, every time you log into Netflix, the menu shows updated suggestions for recently watched and related movies and shows you like based on your recently watched list.

You might think this kind of tracking is a good thing because it saves you time searching for movies and shows, but smart TVs do more than just track your viewing habits. If your smart TV has a webcam or voice control, someone can hack it and see or hear you.

Credit card purchases on TV may also be tracked by third parties. Don't speak or say or do anything you wouldn't say in public when your voice control or webcam is on. Also, be careful with online credit card purchases.

Smart TV Shopping Tips

When buying a TV, almost every make/model has smart features that expand your viewing options. However, the volatility of access to content, additional subscription/pay-per-view costs, potential privacy concerns, and the attractiveness of a particular smart TV compared to other important factors such as image quality, sound quality, physical connectivity, etc. Note that you should consider

If you're looking to add TV, movie, music streaming, and other smart features to your home entertainment experience, but aren't sure if you need a smart TV, here are some guidelines.

  • If you're planning to buy a new TV and don't have any other devices that can access Internet streaming content, we recommend purchasing a smart TV.
  • Add an external media streamer, streaming stick, or internet-enabled Blu-ray Disc player instead of buying a new smart TV if you already have a smart TV that doesn't provide access to the number or types of streaming channels you need Consider doing.
  • If you already own a TV without smart features and are happy with its picture quality and other features, you don't need to buy a smart TV. Simply add a media streamer, streaming stick, or his Internet-enabled Blu-ray Disc player to your current setup.
  • If you're worried about privacy issues, consider an external media streaming device. It cannot prevent tracking of your purchases or viewing habits, but it can prevent direct audio/video spying.
  • If you're interested in pure audio streaming, a network-enabled stereo or home theater receiver will allow you to listen to music in better sound quality than your smart TV.
    Smart TVs are just one way to add Internet streaming and related features to your viewing experience. Use the guidelines above to decide if this is your best choice.