TVs have seen plenty of changes in recent years, but with the advent of the smart TV, the internet has found a new home in the living room. Smart TVs are more than just a mechanism for surfing channels: if you’ve ever wanted a window into the world of information and entertainment, you’ve got it. This guide will cover everything you need to know about smart TVs, from how they work to the benefits they provide to choosing and using them.
Table of Contents:
1. What is a smart TV?
2. How does a smart TV work?
3. Benefits and drawbacks of smart TVs
4. How to choose a smart TV
5. How to use a smart TV
What is a smart TV?
In essence, they are ordinary TV sets that have an integrated Internet connection and software within so that digital content can be streamed, the internet can be browsed and multiple apps can be used directly on the TV without using a separate device. They normally come with a built-in Wi-Fi dongle or Ethernet port that makes them easy to connect to a home network. The simplified and ergonomic designs of smart TVs have also contributed to making them more than just an entertainment device, turning it more into a central home automation hub with compatibility to various devices and platforms.
How does a smart TV work?
It’s basically a platform or operating system that runs on the TV, like a smartphone or a tablet. It supports apps, which can be downloaded and updated as needed, from streaming services to games and social-media apps. It offers connectivity to the internet, from which to draw a wealth of online content, like live broadcasts, movies, TV episodes and so on. Smart TVs also deliver user interfaces that are easier to use, and also allow for voice control. Smart remote controls are also available.
Benefits and drawbacks of smart TVs
The main advantage of smart TVs is that they are very convenient and easy to use because of the wide range of opportunities they offer. Firstly, they offer access to enormous number of stream services, which means possibilities are almost endless. For instance, it is possible to watch almost any movie or TV-show which has been ever created. Secondly, smart TVs can be easily connected to other devices in the home network. For instance, it is possible to watch any video on a laptop and share it with the TV. Thirdly, the TV can be controlled from anywhere in the house using a mobile phone, like smart home assistants.
There are also some disadvantages. Firstly, if somebody used a smart TV to choose what to watch during the day, the TV would be able to track and sell this information to advertising companies. Secondly, it is possible to hack a smart TV. If it happens, not only privacy problems could appear, but also there is a possibility that a hacker would take control of the TV. Finally, it is necessary to have fast and stable Internet connection to be able to use some of the TV functions.
How to choose a smart TV
Deciding which smart TV to purchase is not an easy task when you take into account the great amount of models actually available on the market. First of all, you have to think about the size of the screen and its resolution, which is nowadays 4K Ultra HD, essentially the best quality that can be obtained when watching TV from home. Another important aspect is the operating system of the TV, which will determine what kind of apps and features will be available on the TV. You should also take into consideration the connectivity options and the possibility, if any, of supporting the streaming services that you usually use. Finally, think about the price and the kind of quality you are personally looking for in your next TV. Also, take into account the brand, as it helps having an idea of which companies are better known for quality and customer service.
How to use a smart TV
A smart TV can be used like a regular one – power, input, channel up – but if you want to do more than that, you need to set it up carefully. Get the connection to the Internet up and running, whether that’s a wired Ethernet or a wireless Wi-Fi connection. Then browse the apps of the TV in its app store, download your favourite streaming services and applications, and give those a try – they’ll usually come with a free trial. Get comfortable with the way that your smart TV works, maybe involving initially making some changes to important picture settings such as contrast and brightness. Certainly, venture beyond the basics to include voice and smartphone control to truly get the most from your smart TV.
Conclusion
A smart TV is at the top of the entertainment devices pyramid, offering the most complete home entertainment experience, integrating the television with the web, computers and many other devices. Understanding how they work and what are their advantages and drawbacks, as well as how to choose and use smart TVs properly will allow you to turn your living room into a multimedia centre. Get the right smart TV and you can be certain of never being bored at home, having all the entertainment content you can wish for – and more – at your fingertips.
