What is a Smart TV?
Smart TV’s offer the capabilities of a computer, from a television set. It offers a multitude of services that ordinary TVs can’t. These TVs, also called connected TV or hybrid TV, is the name given to any technology that connects the features of the web to a television set. It offers access to apps, games, web browsing and Internet Protocol Television, or iPTV.
iPTV allows users to view streaming video from the internet; either video clips or continuous channels. Smart TV offers the ability to access the same content that is on the web from the comfort of the living room. The concept of connecting the internet to a television set isn’t entirely new, but technological advances are bringing the idea alive and making it easier than ever. The technology doesn’t require the purchase of a new television set when they may have just recently purchased one; it is possible to connect to a set top box, game console, blu-ray player, etc.
Why do I need a Smart TV?
The devices allow users to download music or videos from the web and access them directly from their television, eliminating the need to create CDs or DVDs. There are numerous video streaming websites available that offer video clips, television show episodes, full-length movies, and live continuous feed. Netflix users can easily access movies and TV episodes on their smart TV. Now, instead of crowding around a small computer screen to watch an online movie, everyone can gather together on the couch instead. Sites like Hula, Roku, Boxee, and Apple TV also offer an abundance of available videos that can be accessed via a smart TV.
Internet gaming enthusiast will love the accessibility of their favorite game on a wide screen HDTV. Gaming will be transformed into a more comfortable and visually pleasing experience.
How does it work?
These TVs use an Ethernet cable, some can even go wireless. The process of setting up a smart TV is very similar to setting up a laptop. They run on an operating system, similar to regular computer, only made specifically for use with a television. This allows for the use of the apps and features, either pre-programmed or available for purchase and download. The TV can be controlled with an android or apple smart phone, or even wirelessly.
The future of the Smart TV
Television sets are being transformed from an object in the home used for watching video to a truly interactive experience that the whole family can enjoy. TV manufacturers are working with internet companies to provide better services for their customers. These manufacturers will continue to improve the operating systems they offer so that customers will continue to get the best from their TV. As with any new technology, companies will compete to offer the newest and greatest versions, which mean there will always be something new to look out for.
Who makes Smart TVs?
Below are a few manufacturers and some of the models they provide.
Samsung offers:
Plasma series
51″ Plasma 7000
59″ Plasma 6500, 8000
LED series
40″ LED 6500
46″ LED 6450, 6500, 6900, 7900
55″ LED 6000, 6300, 6420, 6900, 7000, 7050, 8000
LG offers:
42″ models 42LV3700, 42LV5400, 42LV5500
47″ models 47LV3700, 47LV5400, 47LV5500, 47LW5600*, 47LW5700*, 47LW6500*
55″ models 55LV3700, 55LV5400, 55LV5500, 55LW5600*, 55LW5700*, 55LW6500*
65″ model 65LW6500*
* These TVs have 3D capabilities.
Sony offers:
Sony Bravia
32″ KDL32EX523, KDL32EX720
40″ KDL40EX523, KDL40EX720
46″ KDL46EX523, KDL46EX620, KDL46NX720, KDL46EX720, KDL46HX729, KDL46HX820, BNKDL46EX523
55″ KDL55EX720, KDL55NX720, KDL55HX729, KDL55HX820, KDL55EX620, XBR55HX929
60″ KDL60EX720