A Smart TV: All About It

In other words, smart TVs are directly connected to the Internet and have an operating system/platform that allows you to access, manage and view online and network-based media content.

How smart TVs work

Smart TVs can 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.

After you connect and turn on your TV, 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, available as an application (similar to smartphone applications). Some apps come pre-installed and more can be downloaded and added to your TV app library.

Clicking on a particular channel/app icon reveals that content offering and you can select and watch.

The exact method of navigating the Smart TV menu and managing apps varies by make and model.

Benefits of Smart TV

The main advantage of smart TVs is that you can access many channels of TV shows, movies and music without having to connect a TV antenna or subscribe to cable/satellite services. Some smart TVs also offer web browsing, gaming, and access to compatible media content stored on your computer.

Smart TVs can also receive TV programs via antenna or cable/satellite, but Vizio has done away with the built-in tuners and antenna/cable connections on most devices in favor of a fully integrated streaming platform. to do. A replacement is included in it.

What Is Considerable Before Buying a Smart TV

Other Smart TV Features

In addition to streaming over the Internet, some smart TVs offer other features such as Miracast and screen sharing, allowing users to watch content from compatible smartphones and tablets on their TV screens. Other names for this feature are SmartShare (LG) and SmartView (Samsung).

Some smart TVs can do the opposite. In other words, it sends content from your TV to your compatible smartphone. After the broadcast, you can continue to watch the content on your smartphone, regardless of your TV.

A few things to note

While the hype surrounding smart TVs is overwhelming, there are some cost considerations and limitations to keep in mind.

Smart TV platforms provide access to many free channels and services, many of which require a monthly subscription or pay-per-view. Once you start collecting these fees, you could end up spending as much or more than your monthly cable/satellite bill. On the other hand, you only pay for the channels and content you need.

Can a Smart TV Spy on You?

Using smart TVs can lead to privacy issues. TV and content app providers typically track your viewing habits to provide viewing suggestions. For example, every time you log into Netflix, the list will show updated suggestions for related movies and shows you like based on your list of what you’ve seen recently, not just what you’ve seen recently.

Be Careful

You might think that this type of tracking is a good thing because it saves you time looking for movies and shows, but smart TVs can do more than just track your viewing habits. If your smart TV has a webcam or voice control, anyone can walk into the room and see or hear you.

In addition, for credit card purchases on TV, third parties can track it. Don’t speak, say or do anything you wouldn’t say in public when voice control or your webcam is on. Also, be careful when buying credit cards online.

Smart TV Shopping Tips

When you buy a TV, almost every make/model offers some smart features that expand your viewing options. However, it balances differences in access to content, additional subscription/pay-per-view costs, potential privacy concerns, and the appeal of some smart TVs with other important factors like picture quality, sound quality, and physics. 

My Recommendation

If you’re looking to add TV, movies, 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.

When you’re looking to buy a new TV and don’t have any other devices that can access online streaming content, I recommend buying a Smart TV.

Now If you already have a Smart TV that can’t access the number or type of streaming channels you want, consider adding an external media player, streaming stick, or Blu-ray Disc player with internet access instead of just one. Please. New Smart TV. TV.

Consider an external media streaming device if you have privacy concerns. It cannot prevent your purchasing or viewing habits from tracking, but it can prevent direct audio/video spying.