Are you still fussing with a traditional television connected to a DVR, DVD player, digital antenna or set-top box, gaming system, sound system and all of the cables and remote controls that go along with them?
Well, you don’t need to, now that technology puts the power of multiple devices into a single remote control and one piece of equipment called a smart TV. When your traditional set up (aka “dumb TV”) finally kicks the bucket – or all of its external devices become too much to manage – a smart TV will be more affordable than you think, and so much more capable than you ever imagined, that you’ll have no reason to purchase any other kind of television. In fact, when it’s time for you to buy again, it might be cost prohibitive to even consider buying another dumb TV (if they’re still available). But, aside from the price, there’s still plenty to love about smart TVs.
What Exactly Is a Smart TV?
Everybody knows when you connect to the internet, you become smart, right? A smart TV is, essentially, a television that connects to the internet. That’s it. Not complicated at all.
All smart TVs come preloaded with a user interface that allows you to browse the web and access streaming applications, games, and other internet-based features. With a smart TV, you’ll be able to connect to local channels, web-based streaming services, and games right through the TV without additional devices although paid subscriptions will be required for some of those services.
Smart TVs do get slightly more complicated with their app integrations though. So, if you’re interested in streaming a film or series that’s only offered by one app, you’ll want to purchase a smart TV that includes access to the specific apps you use. There’s no smart TV that comes ready to access all of them. But if you’re content to access the basics like internet browsing, live local programming, or channels from your cable provider, any smart TV will do the job.
Why Do I Want a Smart TV?
Like we mentioned above, traditional TVs are quickly becoming cost prohibitive and hard to find. Even if you’re not a computer user otherwise, having a smart TV in your home will make it possible to have video calls with your family and friends, monitor your smart home integrations, and even answer your video-enabled doorbell without needing a separate smart phone or computer. Of course, you don’t have to use all of those capabilities from your smart TV, but they’re nice to have as technologies evolve in our homes. With a smart TV, you’ll have access to all or most of the same entertainment that’s currently being provided by your numerous external devices, but fewer cables to manage and fewer pieces of equipment to replace and fewer remote controls to wrestle away from the dog. Who doesn’t want that?
