tv

The primary difference between smart and dumb TVs is their ability to connect to the internet. Smart TVs can access streaming apps and often come with built-in software, while dumb TVs lack these features and typically require external devices for streaming content. However, even some 'dumb' TVs may have limited smart features like mobile integration.

Some people prefer dumb TVs due to concerns about privacy and security issues associated with smart TVs, such as data collection and intrusive ads. Additionally, smart TVs can sometimes complicate audio output to home theater systems due to inconsistent software implementations across different manufacturers.

Updating your TV's firmware is crucial because it adds new features, fixes bugs, and enhances performance. Regular updates ensure your TV remains secure and functions smoothly, even if it's not the latest model. Most TVs receive feature updates for about two years, while subsequent updates focus on fixing issues[1][2].

When updating your TV's firmware via USB, ensure the USB drive is formatted in FAT32 and contains only the firmware file in its root directory. Avoid turning off the TV or removing the USB drive during the update process, as this can cause firmware errors. Also, verify that you have downloaded the correct firmware version for your TV model to prevent compatibility issues[2][3].

Smart TVs can slow down due to app clutter, Wi-Fi drops, or outdated firmware. Clearing the cache, uninstalling unused apps, and ensuring no apps run in the background can help improve performance.

Users can simplify their smart TV experience by improving content search functionality and standardizing operating systems across different brands. This would make navigating and finding content easier and more intuitive.

Samsung TV Plus added five new sports channels, including Victory Plus Dallas (Dallas Stars hockey), expanded Victory Plus Anaheim (Anaheim Ducks hockey), NASCAR coverage, The Roku Sports Channel (MLB, Formula E, X Games), and PBR RidePass (bull riding and western sports).

Samsung TV Plus operates as a free, ad-supported streaming service (FAST) with over 3,500 channels, funded by commercials rather than subscriptions. The sports expansion aims to reduce reliance on paid services by offering live games and original programming without paywalls.

The new features include five new category types on the homepage, expanded Shorts viewing options, a dedicated podcasts tab, and looping support for all content. These enhancements aim to improve user experience and content discovery.

The rollout of these new features is set to occur by Q2 2025. This timeline suggests that users will have access to these enhancements within the next few months.

The TVs use LG's Zero Connect Box to wirelessly transmit 4K video and audio up to 144Hz with minimal latency. This box handles all source connections and broadcasts signals to the TV, eliminating the need for physical HDMI cables while maintaining high-quality visuals and sound.

The TVs include AI Picture Pro for optimized detail, AI Sound Pro for virtual 9.1.2 surround sound, and personalized features like AI Voice ID and LG AI Concierge. These tools adapt to user preferences for tailored content recommendations and settings.

To clean a TV screen safely, use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the screen. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or spraying liquid directly onto the screen, as these can damage the display. For stubborn smudges, slightly dampen the cloth with distilled water or a screen-specific cleaner and wipe gently.

Regularly cleaning your TV enhances the viewing experience by maintaining a clear, bright screen free from dust, fingerprints, and smudges. This is especially important when watching live sports, streaming shows, or movies, where picture quality significantly impacts enjoyment, particularly when sharing the experience with a larger audience.

Freely is a UK free-to-air streaming service that delivers live TV and on-demand content over the internet via WiFi, rather than through a traditional aerial or satellite dish. It requires a minimum internet speed of 10Mbps and supports features like pausing, rewinding, and restarting live TV, which are not available on traditional broadcast services. It is considered the successor to Freeview and is backed by major UK broadcasters including BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and 5.

Freely is available on select new TVs that come with the service pre-installed, including models from Hisense, Toshiba, Panasonic, TCL, Sharp, Bush, and some Amazon Fire TV models. It is not yet available on premium brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, or Philips except for certain Panasonic OLED models. To access the new 16 live channels from ITV, Channel 4, and 5, users need a Freely-compatible TV and an internet connection. The new channels will be integrated into the Freely TV guide later in 2025.

Mini PCs offer greater versatility and customization compared to streaming devices. They can handle a variety of media sources, support local content playback, and even enable gaming through services like Steam Link. Additionally, they provide the flexibility to choose software and interfaces, unlike streaming devices which are limited to their ecosystem[2][3].

Using Linux on a mini PC for an HTPC setup offers several benefits, including cost savings by avoiding Windows licensing fees and the ability to customize the system extensively. Linux also supports a wide range of media server software like Jellyfin and Plex, making it ideal for managing large media collections[2][4].

The 'Free TV' button on Google TV remotes opens the 'Live' tab, providing access to over 170 free, ad-supported channels through Google's FreePlay TV app. This includes channels like America's Test Kitchen, BBC Earth, and more.

While Google does not specify requirements for the button's design or placement, OEMs can customize its appearance. Additionally, users can remap the button using apps like Button Mapper to suit their preferences.

The 'Free TV' button on new Google TV remotes is designed to provide users with easy access to over 150 free channels via the Live tab, enhancing the platform's streaming offerings by integrating free live TV options directly into the remote control.

The 'Free TV' button offers a dedicated shortcut to access free live TV channels, making it simpler for users to find and watch free content without needing to navigate through multiple apps or menus. This contrasts with existing options where users might need to open specific apps like Google TV Freeplay or other free streaming services.

Popular streaming apps for watching local channels include YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, Pluto TV, Tubi, NewsON, and Local Now. Each offers varying levels of access to local channels depending on your location.

No, not all streaming apps provide full access to local channels. Availability varies by service and location. For example, YouTube TV offers a comprehensive lineup of local channels, while Sling TV's local channel availability is more limited and varies by market.

ATSC 3.0, also known as NextGen TV, is a new digital broadcast standard that offers improved picture quality, enhanced audio, and interactive features like video on demand. It supports 4K broadcasts and allows for better signal reception and reduced interference compared to its predecessor, ATSC 1.0.

While some ATSC 3.0 tuners may require an internet connection for features like program guide data or security, receiving over-the-air NextGen TV signals does not require an internet connection. However, certain interactive features might necessitate a connection.

NextGen TV, formerly known as ATSC 3.0, is a new broadcasting standard that offers free over-the-air 4K HDR content, providing better image quality and sound compared to previous standards. It also supports features like enhanced emergency alerts, targeted advertising, and interactive content when connected to the internet.

To watch NextGen TV, you need a TV with an ATSC 3.0 tuner or a converter box that supports this standard. Many newer TVs from brands like Hisense, LG, Samsung, Sony, and TCL include these tuners, but older models may require a separate converter.

Budget TVs often display controversial advertisements on idle screens because these brands may partner with advertisers to offset the cost of the low-priced TVs. This practice can lead to unexpected exposure to divisive or offensive content for users.

The rise of streaming services has significantly impacted traditional TV advertising by shifting viewer preferences away from broadcast TV. This shift forces advertisers to reconsider their strategies, often moving towards more targeted and efficient platforms like video on demand (VOD) and streaming services.

The partnership aims to provide high-capacity, low-latency connectivity to support BMC TV's growth in live event broadcasting across the UK. This collaboration enables BMC TV to extend its services beyond London, reaching key venues nationwide with increased scalability and resilience.

The partnership benefits live event broadcasting by providing robust and resilient networking solutions necessary for data-intensive applications like live in-play betting and ultra-high-definition streaming. Neos Networks' infrastructure ensures the delivery of uncompressed, high-quality video for major broadcasters such as the BBC and ITV.

Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) is a technology used by smart TVs to identify and collect data about the content being displayed, even when it's from external devices like laptops. This data can be shared with third parties for targeted advertising, raising significant privacy concerns as users may not be aware of this data collection or how to opt out[1][2][5].

To limit data collection by your smart TV, you can disable Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) in your TV's settings. Additionally, you can turn off features like Device Usage Data and Interest-Based Ads. However, completely stopping all data collection may require disconnecting your TV from the internet[3][4].