For those confident with technology, a smart TV is an avenue towards greater entertainment opportunities but, for those of us who still get a little confused when it comes to our electronics, a smart TV might seem a bit intimidating at first. Don’t lose hope; this article is here to teach you how easy a smart TV really is, and what you should be doing to make the most of it.
Internet Connections: Wi-Fi and Ethernet Explained
A Smart TV is a piece of connected technology; this means that it should be connected to the internet if you want to be able to use all its features. Without the internet, you will still be able to access your Freeview channels and things like Sky, which function through boxes plugged in manually.
When you connect your Smart TV to the internet, you will have access to all of its other features, including apps like Netflix and even game apps; have you ever considered playing sudoku on your television?
There are two main methods for connecting your Smart TV to the internet, but an ethernet connection is preferable. ‘Ethernet’ is when your device is physically connected to the internet box (the router) using a cable that runs between your device and the box. It provides a stable and fast connection.
To get the most of your smart television, make sure you set up the internet connection as best you can by creating an ethernet connection.
Changing Between Apps
One of the greatest benefits of Smart TV is that you can download apps on it. Apps is a word that is short for applications and, in this manner, a smart TV is like a computer. The apps that are on your TV allow you to access different programs and services, such as YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime.
Some television remote controls have buttons that will open one of those services but, for others, you may have to select the ‘home’ or ‘menu’ button on your remote to bring them up. One of the best ways to learn how to use new technology is to experiment a bit, so if you’re not feeling very confident yet, you should try to open a few different apps until you feel like you understand them. When you can change between apps and TV channels with ease, you’ve got the hang of it!
Most importantly, don’t be intimidated by the capabilities of your TV; although it looks like there are a lot of apps, they are very easy to access, and you can change back to Freeview TV channels anytime.
Downloading More Apps
Most Smart TVs come with the most popular services pre-downloaded, such as Netflix and Prime, but if your TV doesn’t have a service that you’ve been recommended, then you can download it from the app store on your TV. On the app selection screen, there will be a button reading either ‘store’ or ‘apps’. From here, you can enter the name of the app you want to download and put it on your television.
For more entertainment services other than Netflix and Amazon Prime, you might want to consider Now TV, HBO, YouTube, Sky and Hulu – bear in mind that some of these services require a subscription fee before you can use them. For example, you would need to buy a subscription to Netflix as well as the Smart TV if you want to watch Netflix shows on your TV.
You can also download some apps like Skype on your TV. If your television has a microphone function, then you can enjoy video calling your friends and family from the comfort of your living room with this app.
Fitness Apps
Once you’ve learnt how to download apps, you can consider using your television as your own fitness coach. Go at your own pace, consider downloading an app like Yoga TV and balance your soaps, series and films with a good stretch now and then, all from your living room.
Voice Control
If you have an Alexa or Google Assistant, you may be able to buy a Smart TV that is compatible with these voice control devices. Connecting them will require an internet connection, but once you’ve got it installed, you will find that controlling your television has never been easier.
Investing in a Smart TV can reward you with so much more entertainment that you never knew you needed. Say goodbye to all those Freeview channels that you only saw when scrolling past them and start looking forward to entertainment recommendations personalised to your tastes. If you’re in the market for cheap smart TVs, speak to us for how we can help you to upgrade your favourite entertainment system.
