Why Smart TVs are the future of home entertainment

Fezile Biyela
Internet Provider Comparisons

In the past, televisions were simply a way to watch your favourite shows. But now, with the advent of smart TVs, they've become so much more. Smart TVs are internet-connected devices that offer a range of features and services beyond just traditional television programming.

If you're not already using a Smart TV, you're missing out on a world of possibilities. TV without smart functionality means you're experiencing a very small fraction of the entertainment options out there. Although Smart TVs may seem complicated at first, all you need to connect is an internet connection, a smart device or a device that can operate Smart TV apps, and you're sorted!

In this article, we're going over why you really need a Smart TV, all the Smart home tech, how to connect your TV and everything you need to know about how to use your Smart TV.

Smart TVs vs regular TVs

A Smart TV is an internet-connected device that offers a range of features and services beyond traditional television programming. With a Smart TV, you can connect to the internet to stream movies and TV shows, listen to music, play games, and more.

A Smart TV is different from a regular TV in the best ways possible. First, a Smart TV is internet-connected, which means it can connect to the internet, which opens you up to way more entertainment options. You can watch YouTube, stream Netflix and much more. Second, a Smart TV offers a range of features and services beyond traditional television programming. These may include apps, internet browsing, on-demand video streaming, and more. Finally, a Smart TV typically comes with a remote control that allows you to navigate its various features and functions.

The benefits of a Smart TV

There are many benefits to using a Smart TV, including:

A wider range of content

As mentioned earlier, with a Smart TV, you can watch shows and movies from a variety of streaming services, as well as traditional television channels. This gives you more options for what to watch and means you're less likely to get bored with your viewing choices.

Improved picture quality

When it comes to a clearer, crisp viewing experience, Smart TVs offer better picture quality than traditional TVs, thanks to their internet connection. By streaming content in HD or 4K, you can enjoy sharper images and smoother videos.

Increased convenience

With a Smart TV, you can do everything from ordering a pizza to checking the weather forecast, all without leaving your couch. Yes, really. This is thanks to the many internet-connected features and services that Smart TVs offer.

Smart TV features and services

There's much more to Smart TVs than an enhanced viewing experience. Smart TVs also come with a range of features and services that can enhance your viewing experience. These can include:

Apps

Most Smart TVs come with a selection of pre-installed apps, such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more. You can also download additional apps from your TV's app store.

Internet browsing

Some Smart TVs come with a built-in web browser, which you can use to surf the internet or check your email.

On-demand video streaming

With on-demand video streaming, you can watch movies and TV shows whenever you want. This is thanks to apps like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Live TV streaming

With live TV streaming, you can watch shows and events as they happen. This is thanks to apps like Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, and more.

Voice control

Some Smart TVs come with voice control, which allows you to navigate your TV's various features and functions using your voice. For example, you can use voice control to search for a specific show or movie or to launch an app.

The different types of Smart TV operating systems

Just like your phone or computer, your Smart TV runs on an operating system. The most popular Smart TV operating systems are:

Roku TV

Roku TV is a Smart TV platform that offers access to over 500,000 movies and TV shows, as well as music, games, and more. Roku TV also comes with a remote control that allows you to navigate its various features and functions.

Android TV

Android TV is a Smart TV platform that provides access to a wide range of apps, as well as traditional television programming. Android TV also comes with a remote control that allows you to navigate its various features and functions.

Samsung Tizen

Samsung's Tizen Smart TV is a Smart TV platform that offers access to a wide range of apps, as well as traditional television programming.

How to use a Smart TV

Now that you know all about Smart TVs, it's time to learn how to use one. Here's a quick guide:

  1. Turn on your Smart TV and find the home screen.
  2. On the home screen, you'll see a list of apps and services that you can access. Select the app or service that you want to use.
  3. Once you've selected an app or service, follow the on-screen instructions to start using it. For example, if you're streaming a movie, you may need to sign in to your account or choose a rental or purchase option.
  4. To exit an app or service, press the back button on your remote control. You'll be taken back to the home screen, where you can select another app or service.

Streaming devices compatible with Smart TVs

In addition to streaming video from apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, you can also use a streaming device to watch content from your Smart TV. Here are some of the most popular streaming devices:

  • Chromecast: Chromecast is a streaming device that allows you to stream video from your phone or tablet to your TV.
  • Apple TV: Apple TV is a streaming device that offers access to a wide range of apps, as well as traditional television programming.
  • Amazon Fire TV: Amazon Fire TV Stick is a streaming device that offers access to a wide range of apps, as well as traditional television programming.

The best Smart TVs on the market

If you're looking for a new Smart TV, here are some of the best options on the market:

Samsung QLED 8K Smart TV

The Samsung QLED 8K is a top-of-the-line Smart TV that offers an impressive 8K resolution. It also comes with impressive features and services for an unmatched viewing experience, such as apps, internet browsing, on-demand video streaming, and more.

LG OLED 4K Smart TV

The LG OLED 4K is a high-end Smart TV that offers an impressive 4K resolution. You'll also get access to high-tech features and services to give you an enhanced viewing experience, like apps, internet browsing, on-demand video streaming, and more.

Sony Bravia 4K Smart TV.

The Sony Bravia 4K is a mid-range Smart TV that offers a 4K resolution. It also comes with a host of features and services that work alongside your Smart TV for non-stop, easy entertainment.

Roku Ultra

The Roku Ultra is a streaming device that offers access to a wide range of apps, as well as traditional television programming. Roku comes with a remote control that allows you to easily navigate its various features and functions.

Don't just get a TV - get a Smart TV!

Though you may be content using your phone, computer, or even a streaming device to watch TV and movies, there are many reasons why you should consider investing in a Smart TV. In addition to accessing traditional television programming and on-demand video streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, many Smart TVs come with built-in features like internet browsing and apps. Additionally, many Smart TVs offer higher resolutions than other types of televisions. If you're looking for a new television, it's worth considering a Smart TV as your best option.

Make your home a smart home with fast internet for your Smart TV

If, after reading this, you're ready to buy a new TV, you're going to need an internet package that will keep up with your shiny new internet-connected TV. Luckily, we're here to connect you to the best internet providers in the U.S. so you can get the best viewing experience from your Smart TV. Visit our website to find out more about how you can get the most out of your current internet plan or get a new one that's more up to scratch with you.

Written by:
Fezile Biyela
Digital Writer

Hi, I’m Fez. A chai-drinking, worship-singing, and words-loving copywriter. I’m a digital native obsessed with staying connected with the world around me. That’s why you’re seeing me here – helping you stay connected. Happy reading!

Discover the Best Plans for You

We have a wide selection of plans to choose from, so you can find and select the perfect one to suit your needs.

There's a deal for with fast, reliable and secure internet. With dozens of plans and bundle offer to choose from, you'll be spoilt for choice.

CenturyLink is your trusted provider of internet, home phone, and TV services. Whether you're at home or on the go, CenturyLink offer fast and reliable internet.

Get fast speeds, more data, and bigger savings on Viasat's reliable home internet plans!

EarthLink offer high-speed internet that’ll always keep you connected whether you're streaming your favorite shows or video chatting with friends.

AT&T offer you a variety of options to get the high-quality services you require, including DSL, fiber optic and fixed wireless networks, streaming and satellite TV services, and extensive 5G coverage.

Frontier, a leading provider of high-speed internet, TV, and phone services, offer various plans to fit your needs and budget.