Smart TVs

How do Smart TVs work?

When a TV is “smart” it has the ability to connect to the Internet, either wirelessly through Wi-Fi or wired via Ethernet. That enables a smart TV to display an interface that can offer streaming content sources from supported apps. This means you can stream quality shows and movies without having to use a separate box or device to do so.

Popular apps, like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, DAZN and others are included in some of these smart TV interfaces, providing a direct connection to their content when you sign up and log in. Sometimes, audio and social media apps are included, adding even more access to the apps you like to use most.

More recently, TVs have been getting smarter features that include voice assistants, like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. These platforms let you search for programs, or even actors, to browse and select what you want to watch at any given time. There may also be smart home controls built-in similar to how Samsung SmartThings is built into some smart TVs. With that feature, you can control smart home devices, like lights or appliances, by talking to your TV.

Who makes Smart TVs and what do they offer?

Most TVs on the market today are smart TVs, and various manufacturers make them. There are premium models from companies, like Samsung, LG and Sony, along with strong value models from others, like Vizio, TCL and Hisense. Plus, there are affordable smart TVs coming from Insignia, Sharp, Toshiba and many others.

Every smart TV offers a way to connect to the Internet and a platform to access and enjoy content. Some manufacturers support Roku, embedding it into the TV itself, so it is as if you have a Roku box hooked up already. Others, like Sony, Philips, Toshiba and some Hisense TVs, come with Android TV built-in, giving you access to Google Play apps and Google Assistant out of the box. Samsung has Tizen and LG has webOS. All of these platforms come with access to apps and services to stream content.

You can also make a smart TV even smarter by adding an additional component to it. It could be a Google Chromecast to beam content from a computer, tablet or smartphone to the big screen, or a streaming device to add even more content access in the comfort of your living room.

What sizes do Smart TVs come in?

Smart TVs come in a wide range of sizes, ensuring there is room to fit a screen, no matter how big or small the space is. They can start as small as 24- and 32-inches, all the way up to large models above 80-inches that almost feel life-sized. There are a number of sizes in between to choose from as well, so you have a choice no matter how big or small a room is.

Smart TVs have also benefitted from the industry trend of thinner designs, with smaller bezels and lighter weight, making them look nicer in the home. They come with stands to prop up on an entertainment unit or the holes necessary to use a wall-mount (sold separately) to give them some extra elevation.

When you purchase a smart TV, you are buying more than a screen. You are getting a pathway to great content you can enjoy with family and friends.