The televisions we use in our households have been developing extremely fast, and new varieties are always coming into the market.
We first had the big televisions of massive size, and then they started to get smaller in size, thinner, and also smarter. Now, most TVs have smart features in them.
They are also called Smart TVs. We will examine these smart features and talk about what are smart features in a TV.
What is a Smart TV?
Firstly, for a TV to have smart features, it has to be a Smart TV. Smart TVs have smart features built-in without you having to do anything.
These smart features allow you to use your television just like a computer, thanks to an operating system on it or with different technology.
These smart features include using YouTube, social media, the internet, and many other things.
Some can even offer compatibility with different software like Alexa App. These Smart TVs have a variety of sizes and features that you can opt for.
There are many different sizes of TVs available with smart features, but the top three sizes are 32 inches, 40 inches, and 50 inches.
Each size has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Read: 10 Best TV Under $1000?
Smart Features in a TV
There are many different things that you can have as smart features in a TV. These vary a lot, and the television’s technology might offer more or fewer features.
However, there are certain smart features that every smart TV has, such as streaming services, the internet, YouTube, and some more.
- Stream On-Demand Content
The first thing and probably one of the most important smart features in a TV is the ability to stream on-demand content.
This could be streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, or any other, or renting a movie or a TV show through the web store on the television.
This could also include sports or any other thing that you’d like to watch.
- Surf the Internet
You can also use the internet and wander around on different websites that you wish with either a virtual keyboard or a keyboard on your remote control. You can visit any website you wish.
- Use YouTube
There are also built-in YouTube applications as a smart feature in TVs. You can open up YouTube and watch videos through it by using the application the TV has.
- Listen to Music
You can also optimize YouTube for music listening or download music listening applications such as Spotify or Apple Music. Most web stores of smart TVs offer these applications.
- Social Media
Lastly, you can surf through social media either by utilizing the browser you have or by downloading certain social media applications like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and many more others.
- Connect Smartphone
Yes, you can connect your smartphone to your smart tv and stream shows, movies, music, photos, etc.
- Games & Applications
Many popular platforms, such as YouTube and Netflix, has their own tv compatible application, and even some games do such as Angry bird.
So by installing these applications and compatible games, you can enjoy them on your smart tv.
- Motion Control
Many modern TVs come with a motion control feature that allows you to play games or select movies, etc., just by the motion of your hands.
- Voice Control
Many smart TVs come with a voice control feature using which you can change the channel, increase or decrease volume, turn off or turn on the tv, and much more.
The voice control feature can be hands-free or button controlled, depending on the type of tv you have.
- Connecting Keyboard
You can easily connect your wireless keyboard to your smart tv via a USB port. This makes it very easy for you to type anything while browsing or texting using your smartphone.
Factors to Consider While Selecting a Smart TV
Here are different factors to keep in mind while purchasing a smart tv:
- LED Vs. LCD TV
You can choose to buy an LED tv that offers a better image and is also energy efficient as compared to LCDs. Or an LCD tv that is less expensive and so on.
- Connectivity
Many smart TVs come with wi-fi connectivity. So make sure to check this and make sure that you do not need to connect it with a dongle or USB.
- Motion & Voice Control
Many high-end TVs come with this feature, and it might cost you more to get this feature.
But if you want to have the best experience, then you can consider buying a smart tv having motion and voice control features.
- Screen
The screen size, type of screen, and resolution offered are some more factors worth considering before buying a smart tv.
Bigger and better TVs cost more, so choose the one that fits your budget. You can also buy curved TVs, which are a new trend in the market.
Are Smart TVs Worth It?
Which Type Of Smart Tv Is Right For Me?
The kind of smart tv you choose largely depends on your budget, but a few questions to consider would be: how long do you watch tv?
What type of content do you watch the most? are you game fanatic? and so on. Here’s how you can choose the right Smart tv for yourself:
For Gamers
If you are a gamer then buying a smart tv having advance graphics, sharper screens, bigger screen would be ideal.
It should be able to connect with your gaming console, having voice command feature could add more to the experience.
For Surfers
If you love surfing on the internet and are going to use your tv for this purpose, then you should buy smart tv that is keyboard compatible to help you eaily navigate and type on the screen.
For Streaming Content
Majority of the people use smart tv for viewing content such as movies or series.
For the best viewing experience ensure that your smart tv can be connected with wi-fi, have a good screen size, resolution of 720 or 1080p and LCD or LED display.
You should also look for built-in apps such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon, etc.
Samsung Smart TV Tricks
Does Smart TVs Updates On Its Own?
Yes, many smart TVs manufactures ensure routine updates to their tv software, such as patching security and bug issues, updating apps, adding new features, etc.
Older models or smaller brands may not be as quick in their updates, but if you have a popular brand tv, then this shouldn’t be an issue for you.
The Verdict
Televisions have gone through many different developments in their technologies, and they were always to support our lives in a better way.
One of those developments is to bring smart features to the televisions, such as web browsers, YouTube applications, ability to stream on-demand content or social media applications.
These smart features are a must-have in most smart televisions, and they are considered smart features.
FAQ’s
What all companies make Smart Tvs?
With the increase in demand, a lot of tv brands have shifted to making smart TVs.
Many companies, including LG, Samsung, Panasonic, Hisense, Sony, Toshiba, TLC, Philips, and Vizio, make smart TVs.
How does a smart tv connect to internet?
A smart tv uses your home network, and via a built-in Wi-Fi or ethernet cable, it stays connected to the internet to let your stream content on your smart tv.
Can my smart tv hang like my pc or smart phone?
Yes, just like your smartphones or pc, your smart tv can hang or crash too. However, such things are not very common in the modern and newer versions of TVs.
Amit Gupta is the founder of National Planning Cycles, a company that helps startups, individuals, and small businesses with their financial planning. He has a vast amount of experience in the finance sector, having managed Google Play accounts for some of the world’s most successful unicorns. Amit is an expert in his field, and he uses his knowledge to help others achieve their individual goals.