One of the latest developments of TV manufacturers is additional features television receivers called Smart TV. Such television receivers are also called "smart TVs", and they provide Internet access and installation additional applications, as well as provide additional opportunities for obtaining media content (video files, photos, music) for the TV.
Smart tv what is it, it should be noted that this is only additional functionality for the TV receiver, and it does not affect the quality of the TV itself for its intended purpose. That is, Smart TV does not affect the quality of the image and sound. At the request of manufacturers, such functionality can be equipped various models TVs, both OLED and LCD LED. Usually smart TV comes in a set of functions for high-quality TVs. price category.
Appointment Smart TV
Smart TV (smart TV) - a set of programs(software), creating a platform, thanks to which it is already possible to get a media center from a TV receiver. This innovation serves to connect the TV to a home local network, usually connected to a computer and other devices via DLNA, and to access the Internet.
On the Internet, TV manufacturers create special services for users. Yes, and ordinary Internet services can be used, these are various photo banks with the ability to view photos, and news resources, and YouTube, etc.
All services using the Internet are of course a convenient thing, but do not forget that you will only have to use the remote control and the virtual keyboard all the time. This may cause some discomfort in working with the browser. Here everyone will have to choose personally whether he needs all these innovations with such ease of use. But modern systems smart TVs have already pre-installed services that open when you click the cursor and there is no need to open them through the browser. Preinstalled services are widgets of popular sites on the Internet dedicated to movies, music, news, etc. Therefore, you can watch movies from the Internet quite simply. Moreover, many companies implement in their models of television receivers the ability to control using gestures or voice commands.
Smart TV on LG TV with webOS 2.0
Each manufacturer can complete the Smart TV package and they are updated regularly. They create their own separate centers on the Internet with their own sets of materials for users of a particular brand of TV.
What is Smart TV in television technology. The Smart TV package offers the user access to additional content from home network and from the internet. If in the first developments only a few specific services on the Internet were offered for use, today a browser is built into TV receivers with a Smart TV package and the user can surf the Internet like on a computer. And widgets are used as pre-installed services ( special programs to expand the capabilities of the TV). With their help, you can check the weather, share photos, use social networks, and more. With smart TV, you can connect your TV to your home network via DLNA and use information from connected devices to watch on TV. Such opportunities allow the viewer not to be tied only to the program schedule of TV channels, but to receive content from almost all possible sources.
Smart TV on Samsung TV with Tizen
The Smart TV service does not affect the functionality of the TV in any way, affecting the main parameters. Neither improvement nor deterioration in the performance of the TV in normal mode will not. Smart TV is only additional service, expanding the capabilities of the television receiver. TVs with this package will cost 5% - 10% more than regular models.
TVs with support for the Smart TV package appeared on sale in 2010. Then their share in the TV market was 10%, in 2011 their share will grow to 30%. And in 2013, the share of smart TVs was 50%. As you can see, the service is developing. Whether you personally need a smart TV-enabled TV receiver is up to you, now you know enough to make a choice.
The main purpose of the Smart TV platform of any manufacturer remains:
Smart TV on Sony TV with Android TV
Changes for 2014 in smart TV
For 2014, Smart TV has strengthened its position compared to the beginning of its use in 2010. All manufacturers are developing their Internet services for smart TVs (as models with smart functionality are sometimes called). The smart itself has undergone changes in each brand of television receivers.
Each firm over the years has only expanded the set of applications in its smart platform. The platform (operating system) on which the smart TV functionality is implemented is also changing.
For example, a firm LG bought and uses the webOS operating system in its TVs since 2014, which was formerly owned by Hewlett-Packard and previously used by Palm for smartphones. This OS comes with open source, which means third parties can develop applications for LG Smart TV. Now the number of applications in LG TVs will grow every month. True, so far the new OS is only on high-end TVs.
And TP Vision, which today owns brands Philips, start from 2014 apply Android operating system on their smart TVs. This operating system from Google has proven itself well when working in tablets and smartphones. Together with Android TVs Philips began to use and available services from Google, which only expanded Smart features TV. The new platform is currently only used in premium models.
Samsung solved the problem of updating smart TV using separate Evolution Kit. This small unit is attached to the TV on the rear panel and connects to a special connector. When the Smart TV platform is completely updated, you don't have to change the whole TV to take advantage of the new features. It is enough to change the Evolution Kit block.
All companies implement in their smart TV receivers the ability to control using voice commands and gestures.
New for 2015
The main changes relate to the operating system used on the TV. Smart work TV directly depends on the operating system used, so improving the performance of smart TV must begin with replacing the operating system. At the same time, the data processor is also changing, wifi module to connect to the internet.
- LG has updated the operating system to WebOS 2.0. This led to some changes in the operation of Smart TV. According to statements, now it has become more convenient, faster, etc. to work.
- Sony has switched to Android TV. With this, smart TV on Sony TV sets has also changed.
- Panasonic uses in their top models Firefox system.
- Philips continues to work on Android TV, only this year updating it to a new version.
- Samsung uses the Tizen operating system in its TV receivers.
It has long been no secret that low-cost TVs can provide more possibilities than just broadcasting TV channels or playing video through various receivers, etc. This is about additional function Smart TV on TV - what is it? in technical language given function translates as "smart television", which implies a separate interface on a modern LED TV premium class. It is crammed with a variety of applications that integrate entertainment into the device. Thanks to the built-in browser, the user can fully surf the World Wide Web. Thousands of programs tailored for Smart TV allow you to adapt the device to the individual preferences of each user. If you have already purchased budget tv without unnecessary bells and whistles, and there is no Smart TV function, do not despair. you can buy a separate prefix which is connected via HDMI port and with using wifi will provide you with a full-fledged Internet interface.
Features and principle of operation
The principle of operation of this function is quite simple. You press the button on the remote control, which is marked with the corresponding inscription and you get into special menu Smart TV. Next, choosing certain program or just go to the browser, enter in search string the information you are interested in. Letters and numbers are entered using virtual keyboard, and the cursor is controlled by the joystick on the remote control or the mini-touchpad on it (depending on the model). There are more familiar ways for many people to control the TV - connect via USB port wireless keyboard or a mouse.
The way to connect the TV to the Internet also has several options, depending on the manufacturer:
- Connection network cable to LAN port on the back;
- Connecting a special wifi router to the usb port that receives the signal from the home router;
- built-in wifi receiver, receiving the Internet without a wire directly;
As for the filling of the operating system itself, on the basis of which “smart television” operates, in most cases the programs have already been installed. These can be online cinemas, widgets for individual TV shows, TV channel packages, and more. Most of them are freely available, while others are trial period from 7 to 30 days and, in the future, requires a subscription (Megogo cinemas, Netflix, and so on). In fact, everything is not so sad. You can easily download free programs for every taste through a browser or application market. Also, you will have access to Youtube browsing and popular social networks. Even the use of video calls when Skype help can be implemented on big screen by purchasing an additional webcam. In addition to the above, Smart TV TV can record programs or movies from digital channels to external media, display the contents of flash drives or other similar devices, allows the user to play games.
Advice! If you do not know, it is worth shoveling a bunch of information on functions. Among them, there must be Smart TV, especially if there are teenagers in the family.
The amount of content appearance the menu and name of the browser with the market depends on the OC on which the device is running. There are several types of them. We offer to consider the most popular of them:
Features of using webOC 2.0
This platform is an exclusive development of LG. The manufacturer installs the shell on all modern TV models of its line. A feature of WebOC 2.0 is that the desktop interface includes all the functionality of Smart TV. This operating system is designed specifically for the most convenient and simplified use. At the bottom of the main screen are animated tabs for all available programs and services.
You can watch some of them without breaking away from the main TV channel. Navigation is designed so that opening, for example Youtube channel, will not cause closure previous program, and will transfer the display to a small window. Simplified use of external drives. The TV instantly recognizes the device, shows its icon on the main screen. All content is sorted by file type. alphabetical order(the sorting method is customizable for any preferences). The remote deserves special praise. remote control Magic Remote. It is equipped with a convenient joystick, scroll wheel and supports voice control.
Features of using OC Tizen
The creator of this operating system is Samsung. She did a good job to ensure that the user with increased comfort can use all the features of Smart TV on the TV. When calling the interface with the corresponding button on the remote control, the TV channel being viewed is not closed. A menu ribbon appears at the bottom of the screen. There are two categories in the default feed, with popular apps and recently viewed. You can customize your display if you wish.
For real, you can find out what Smart TV is on a TV with this platform. The operating system is multi-window, which allows you to open several programs at the same time, while the screen will be divided into the desired number of cells, the size of which can be customized. New widgets or entertainment can be downloaded through the market, and what is remarkable, in the case when you download games, they are saved in a separate interface called "game library". All popular "social networks" and channels are already preinstalled. The remote control is equipped laser pointer, gyroscope (moving the cursor by moving your hand on the remote control), voice control and standard buttons.
Features of working with Android TV
This operating system is used by Philips and Sony. But do not confuse the familiar Android interface in smartphones and tablets with Android TV. This shell is specially adapted to the characteristics of the TV and has a bright, dynamic interface with large icons for all services, games and applications. The developers took as a basis the use of a Google account for a single synchronization between all applications on Smart TV on the TV.
Content storage provides standard Google Play market, though not all files can be installed, only those suitable for display on TV. However, the famous range of games and programs for android is huge. Unlike other operating systems that are stingy with games, here you can safely buy a gamepad and enjoy the game on the big screen. As far as management is concerned, different models TVs - different remotes. There are just push-buttons and navigation is carried out only with arrows, there are remotes with a touchpad and a gyroscope. But in any case, you can always connect what you need peripheral device through the USB port and use it without problems.
"Smart TV" based on Firefox OS
liked firefox platform Panasonic, which began to massively install the OS in their new mid-range TVs. The work of Smart TV with the platform starts from the main screen, on which there are three large icons: access to TV channels, access to installed applications and an interface for external devices. Further, in each of the icons there are subsections leading to other functions.
You can download new applications and games through the Firefox market, although the number of offers is much more modest than in Google's Play Market. Installed browser Firefox is quite nimble and easily handles all types of websites and video playback on them. The navigation remote control has a touchpad and a built-in microphone that allows voice control. By the way, voice search gives the found options not only from the OS, but also from external devices.
An interesting video will tell in more detail:
Conclusion
The operating system will help you understand the Smart TV function on the TV and what it is. The popular types of OC given in this article are used by giant manufacturers in the world market. This means only one thing, that whatever option you choose, it will be of high quality and productive. The only difference is which interface and functionality is more suitable.
AT recent times from various manufacturers many TV models have appeared that use Smart TV technology. These TVs have wide functionality, however, not all users understand what Smart TV is.
This causes certain difficulties when buying a TV, because sellers tell tons of information about the advantages of models with Smart TV functions and it is often difficult for a buyer to understand the real need for the programs and applications offered. That is why in this article we will answer the question of what is Smart TV as fully as possible and find out the real benefits of having functional applications on TVs.
Smart TV is a completely new environment for the effective interaction of the TV with the Internet. In other words, the Smart TV has Internet access, which greatly expands its capabilities. A large number of films, new series, news clips - now all this is available for viewing on a large TV screen, thanks to Internet access.
Without exaggeration, it can be argued that Smart TV opens up wide horizons for the user in comparison with the already widespread cable TV. A huge amount of video information becomes available without special problems. Any difficulties associated with limited number The channels are just missing. No need to download your favorite movie and copy it to a flash drive or disk to watch on TV. Choose the movie you want and watch it online without unnecessary fuss with external media, because the Internet is now available directly from the TV.
However, the possibilities of Smart TV are not limited to access to films, scientific programs and cartoons. You are getting open access to a large number useful resources information and entertainment such as weather, news, listening to music online, social networks...
More aboutSmartTV
On the this moment all the major TV manufacturers boast their line of Smart TV models. Function free access to the Internet has become one of the promising areas of development. That is why, in addition to Smart TVs, special set-top boxes began to be produced, the functionality of which allows ordinary TVs to be used. networking capabilities Smart TV environment. Interestingly, new TVs with the ability to access the Internet are produced in approximately the same quantity as. This eliminates any possibility of difficulties with connecting the TV to the Internet. If finances allow, you can buy a modern high-performance Smart TV with the appropriate set of features. If not, you can "pump" old tv purchase of an accessory.
Rapid development and adoption of Smart TV should bring benefits ordinary buyers. Fierce competition should drive price cuts for attractive TV models, as well as influence the further evolution network technologies. However, this is only a superficial assessment. Undoubtedly, there is competition among manufacturers. Everyone wants to stand out and grab the attention of customers. This leads to the fact that different manufacturers perceptions of the Smart TV environment vary widely. The development of Smart TVs from Samsung and Panasonic or LG differ markedly from each other. The speed, logical structure, network capabilities and overall functionality of Smart TVs from different manufacturers vary. Implemented in one environment good set services for watching movies online, in the other - high-quality social applications.
A large number of separate environments sometimes makes it difficult to understand what Smart TV is and where it is best to use it. A person got acquainted with a Smart TV in which the emphasis is on social networks that he does not use, and decided to stop using the medium. But he would like a model that allows him to work with online content efficiently and conveniently. This is how it turns out in real life. Many make hasty conclusions and do not fully understand the essence of Smart TV.
SmartTVfrom various manufacturers
Sony in the line of productive Bravia TVs has successfully implemented smart features TV. Beyond the Image excellent quality users get access from the Internet. By pressing just one button on the remote control, it is activated Sony function Entertainment Network, which provides enhanced networking experience. Pleasantly pleased with the web browser, which allows you to very conveniently view pages on the Internet.
The unusual TrackID feature provides you with full information about the audio composition that accompanies the video. Really useful thing eliminates the need to search for your favorite song from any video. Bravia series TVs support watching videos from services such as RuTube or YouTube. It should also be noted functional navigation which will undoubtedly appeal to many users.
The well-known TV manufacturer LG is confidently moving in the direction of Internet technologies and offers customers models with access to world wide web. Function menu from LG boasts convenient browser, social media applications and game agent. AccuWeather is a productive service that provides very fast weather information anywhere in the world. An interesting solution is vTuner, which is a radio client. You will have access to a really large set of radio stations with extensive search and sorting options.
Panasonic introduced Smart TV to their TVs rather late. Unusual is the Viera Connect service, which provides access to a large number of options not only on the Internet, but also on the network. Market Viera Connect content collection contains a large number of information that can be added or updated. With Viera Link, you can control all devices that have Smart Viera with one remote control.
findings
We found out what Smart TV is and what advantages it gives to the TV. As it turned out, Smart TV allows you to effectively use the Internet for your own purposes and enjoy large quantity online content. Pleasantly pleased with the presence of special set-top boxes, which significantly expand the capabilities of conventional TVs. Buying a Smart TV or not is up to you, but the effective interaction of the Internet and the TV is simply undeniable.
Today we'll talk about this interesting technology as Smart TV(smart TV). Manufacturers have long understood that if you leave the TV in its usual form, this will lead to a decrease in sales and decided to equip them with "smart" technologies and actually turn them into a computer. We will try to talk about what kind of development it is, how to choose a smart tv, what kind Smart TVs exist. The technology, formerly referred to as Connected TV, came to the minds of developers back in 1997. But this was the case when progress was ahead of the possibilities: the dial-up connection (modem), which was used, most of the inhabitants of the planet did not allow the idea to be introduced into mass production, because. Smart TV needs Internet with good speed.
We will try to briefly go through the main features of TVs, give an idea of what it is and how buy smart TV.
Not many people know that the name Smart TV itself appeared similar to the concept of Smart Phone, which in turn combines the integration of the Internet, software and various widgets in mobile phones. All the same applies to TVs. It is worth noting that Smart TV is not limited to TVs alone. It can be Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, digital receivers etc., but everyone has the same goal - to make your TV more advanced and smart. Thanks to this, you will no longer be dependent on TV programs, now you can watch any movie from the Internet (and in the best HD quality), entertain your friends with YouTube videos or visit social networks. However, today we will talk specifically about TVs, because thanks to the built-in support for Smart TV, you can save on buying other gadgets. Just buying everything separately for ordinary consumers is too troublesome, not many people want to delve into the complexities of connection and configuration. We will also talk about this, but a little later.
First of all, you need to decide on the model. The most popular TVs with Smart TV: Samsung, Sony, LG, Philips, Sharp, Panasonic. The undisputed leader is Samsung and LG.
Here the whole difficulty lies in the fact that you can choose the perfect TV in terms of image and sound quality, and all the available “smart” functions will be scarce or vice versa. But now it has begun good trend when everything fits perfectly, even in budget models. Indeed, it is, as before, conventional TV, but a small set of chips was built into it, which will plunge you into the world of the Internet, but sometimes manufacturers do not think about image quality. However, the level of sales of these devices is constantly growing, consumers have appreciated the technology, but many questions remain open. In any case, when buying a TV with the Smart TV function, first pay attention to the parameters of the technology itself: image, HD and FullHD support, playback various formats files from external media, whether you need 3D function, sound, maybe you like the backlight (as in Philips TVs).
Determine for yourself several models that are most suitable in terms of parameters, decide on the size that suits your home. Be sure to determine the production technology: LCD, LED or "plasma", look at the viewing angles(the closer to 180 degrees, the better), the sweep frequency and the availability of additional connectors (for example, for connecting USB media).
USB allows you to connect external drives, such as "flash drives", " hard disks” and other devices supported by the TV. Find just "your TV", and only then evaluate software part Smart technology, find out what the operating system costs, how to work with it, how to set up Smart TV and how to download Smart TV applications. Otherwise, what's the use of it if the TV is mediocre.
Take a close look back TV and look for a LAN output, this will allow you to connect the device to your local network and watch movies online or play files directly from your computer. But for this you need to configure DLNA server. How to do this, you can read on the Internet, there are a lot of instructions. Desirable and availability of Wi-Fi, this will “untie your hands” in terms of the absence of wires for the Internet. However, keep in mind that it is not always wifi speed copes with the playback of "heavy" films in the format Full HD.
One huge plus in favor of Smart TVs is multitasking, thanks to special applications, you can, for example, record TV programs, movies or sports events while you are not at home, you can watch the weather, read the news and much more.
Don't chase after a 3D-enabled TV (although you can't live without them now), it's nothing more than entertainment at the moment. Only in the store you will enjoy beautiful picture thanks to commercials. In fact, it is very limited number films or clips, and in addition without translation into Russian. Plus, if there are small children in the house, do not rush to please them with such a device, such a “picture” has not yet been fully proven to positively or negatively affect vision.
Pay attention to the function USB Recording or online entries. For example, you are watching a movie or a sports broadcast and suddenly you need to urgently leave somewhere. You put the TV program on pause, and at that moment there is a recording of what you missed immediately on USB stick. Now you manage the air and adjust it to your needs.
What are Smart TVs?
Each manufacturer has its own smart TV platform. As a rule, the set of programs is standard, most of them will have to be downloaded additionally in the application store. The presence of a built-in camera on the TV would be a plus, but not required attribute. Sometimes the camera is used in some applications for quick user interaction with the TV (for example, gesture control) or for Skype conversations, etc. If you want to buy a camera separately, then only from the manufacturer and only a special one, ordinary for laptops or computers, will not work.
At the very least, everyone is trying to release the most intuitive and understandable interface and it's not a fact that everyone will use Skype, so this is a subjective minus.
If your ISP's network is broadcasting IPTV television, then with the help special applications can be viewed without buying special devices and decoders. Check this point before buying a TV and the possibility of viewing with your Internet provider.
So, here are the main operating systems of SmartTV.
Samsung Smart TV - Smart HUB
Let's start with the leader in the Smart TV market, Samsung. From 6500 or 6900 series ( plasma screens) models began to be equipped with "smart" technology. At the moment, the most balanced and high-quality models are the 8000-9000 series, which have a built-in Wi-Fi module on board.
The Smart TV program that is used in the Samsung TV is called smart hub. Press the button with a cube on the remote control and get into working space. This is a kind of "Desktop" on the computer. All the most interesting is collected here: music, TV channels, program guide, browser, photo viewer and more.
If you want download Smart TV apps, then you need to go to the "store" of programs. You will be amazed by the amount of software, which is already more than a thousand. They are so diverse that any other manufacturer can only envy. There are interesting applications that you can interact with with gestures and voice, you can find out about this by the appearance of the icon, which has the appropriate designation. But, not everything is as good as it seems at first glance. Most of these programs simply do not make sense to use. They do not carry any functional features for the TV and do not add to it interesting opportunities. Exceptions are programs for IPTV, watching videos, etc. All the ones that are made for multimedia capabilities. We do not say that these are all programs, but many of them. And keep in mind the fact that there is constant progress in the development of software. The standard set includes Skype, Twitter, Facebook. Picasa, Vimeo and YouTube. By the way, YouTube for Smart TV on the Samsung TV, we found it very difficult to learn, the search was difficult, but it works without failures and plays HD video, which is good.
Internet browser distinguishes Samsung from other manufacturers with its convenience, support Flash, and working with multiple tabs. We liked the TV broadcast mini-image feature in the corner of the browser so that you don't miss the end of the commercial break while surfing the web.
In the shop smart applications TV ( Samsung Apps ) there is an interesting program Explore 3D, which will allow you to find 3D content for your TV. Every day the list of videos and movies is expanding, but as you know, you need special glasses and TV support for this technology to watch. Difficulty finding films translated into native language, we did not succeed. But everything is free and the feeling is indescribable.
For younger viewers download appsSmartTV with many simple games and educational puzzles, recently you can install the famous Angry Birds. It takes a lot of skill to "shoot".
Deserves special attention global search. The search query scans the Internet (Yandex, YouTube) and your local network or connected hard drives. It is very comfortable.
For those who simply cannot imagine their life without social networks, there is an application Social TV, thanks to which you can chat with friends while watching TV or a movie.
For ease of navigation, there are several applications for phones that will help you quickly navigate the TV menu or change channels without using the remote control. One such application for Android is called Smart TV Remote. Although it is not official, it has gained considerable popularity among users. For some reason, Samsung made their app very inconvenient.
In general, we liked the Smart HUB platform. Convenient and understandable, users will quickly “make friends” with it, there are some difficulties in work, but not critical ones. Note that the system itself does not claim to be the best, because Samsung interface HUB cannot adapt to user needs like LG does. Of course, a lot here depends on the TV, how “tricky” it is, how many “smart” functions will be ideally combined with it, but still, Samsung is not in the lead yet.
LG Smart TVs
The Korean manufacturer has been supplying equipment with "smart" technologies since 2009. They were among the first to show the world this platform. Televisions of those models had a version called NetCast where it was possible to view YouTube, watch the weather and enjoy picasa.
The platform does not have anything supernatural, but a number of applications make it interesting. For example, YouTube, whose interface is made specifically for television control and for remote control. It is possible to search for videos in Latin or Cyrillic. As we know, great amount content on the portal with a resolution of 1080p, watching such videos on a TV is just a pleasure.
An interesting program from the application store is Tvigle.ru, which has movies, series and many other videos in its arsenal, and, what is important, it is completely free.
The application from Yandex is supplied with search engine, you can read the news, find out the weather forecast, download the latest TV program. Yandex.Traffic will show the current information on the roads if you have some kind of car trip in the near future.
Thanks to Picasa, you can view photo albums from your personal collections, very conveniently. Now guests will not be bored, you can show them photos at any time or just remember past events.
By installing the application 3D World from LGApps you can view 3D videos and movies, according to the developers, they have become more colorful and thoughtful, and your eyes will not get tired. However, all these videos are reminiscent of commercials. They are simply beautiful and for us seemed uninteresting. Perhaps soon everything will change, so we will not write off the application.
AT LG AppsTV you can find a lot interesting programs, both paid and free, and their number is constantly growing.
The web browser is convenient, but does not support Flash.
Please note that LG is working by leaps and bounds in the direction of development Smart TV and this year presented a completely new platform entitled webOS. All modern TVs supplied with this operating system, and it differs from its predecessors in a pleasant way. In stores, you can still find models of LG's "past collections", so we pay attention in the review to both the old and new versions platforms.
Let's take a look at what's new in webOS
First, we see progress in user interface. It has become as intuitive as possible, even for those who are hard friends with technology. Second, webOS apps are growing faster than past platforms due to easier compatibility with smart TV technologies.
The system provides an unsurpassed level of freedom and ease of use. According to the developers, users should appreciate the new navigation, search, switching between different types content. All customer reviews have been taken into account and there is no longer such annoyance from the fact that somewhere it is not pressed or does not work.
We had the most positive impressions from working with webOS, if there were any problems, then there was no doubt that they would be fixed. The system is constantly “boiling” with life, there is no feeling of abandonment and uselessness, as in other platforms.
When you turn on the TV for the first time, we will see an animated character BeanBird, which will help in an easy way to carry out all the initial steps of installation and smart settings TV.
When a TV is connected to external device, then webOS will tell you what can be done thanks to the listed possible actions and the user will choose the desired function.
The Start menu (or Launcher) is now located from left to right at the bottom of the screen. It allows you to switch between TV channels, movie files or other content and no longer need to return to the main menu to select a function. Everything is on one tape. This will allow you to multitask the TV: while watching channels, you can surf the Internet, play games or download a new program.
LG also announced a new product called "Today" (Today). It is a one-stop source for TV or movie recommendations. Moreover, you can watch them even after the broadcast, which means you will never miss all the most interesting and relevant.
AT LG Store you can view a list of the most popular programs according to users, open it, read the description, install it safely and this will again expand the capabilities of your TV. 3D content pleased with new videos and films, but again there are very few of them.
Sony Smart TVs (Sony Internet TV) or Sony Entertainment Network
Sony makes some pretty good Bravia TVs
, but with Smart technology somehow it doesn’t work out very well. Something is missing in it, it takes about a minute to boot the system. Sony didn't even use the term Smart TV in their TV names for a while. Slowed down the development of Sony in the field of "smart" TVs the desire for experimentation. At one time, the company built a Google TV set-top box into its equipment, but buyers were very reluctant to purchase such TVs and the idea failed. Since 2011, the company has been trying with all its might to make a convenient and solid system out of SEN.
To access SEN just find the corresponding button on the remote control. You will be taken to a menu that displays the current browsing and applications, from where you can get to YouTube, social networks, as well as other entertainment and useful content. Smart TV 2014 from Sony of the Year looks like that.
I was pleased with the Internet browser, everything is perfectly reproduced and displayed. Have a function Video Search(video search) where you can find movies and TV shows. The collection is large, so everyone will find what they are looking for.
Highly interesting system TrackID, according to the principle of operation, resembles Shazam. Imagine a situation. You are watching a clip or a movie, suddenly the music starts playing, but you do not know the artist. Just press the TrackID button and information about the author, artist and title of the song will appear on the TV screen.
MediaRemote- one more interesting application. By installing it on your smartphone, you can control the cursor on the TV screen, directly from the screen mobile device. It is possible to control using voice commands. In general, I am glad that all the company's devices interact perfectly with the TV. Because everyone uses one common platform for access to programs and the principle of interconnection. Unfortunately, some services are paid, specify this when buying, so as not to be upset later.
Everything else is standard - Skype, Twitter, Facebook. You can discuss a movie with your friends right during the viewing by calling on Skype.
Unfortunately, the system is difficult to master, without the help of a specialist it will be difficult to set up something and understand something.
The function performs its work stably WiFi Direct mode. If you have a tablet Sony Tablet, Xperia smartphone, Vaio laptop or other mobile gadget, then you can combine devices into a home wifi network and stream music, movies or photos to your TV. But we managed to transfer any information without connecting to the home network. Anyone can share digital content with the appropriate permissions.
TVs Sony Smart TV is perfectly adapted to work with PlayStation consoles, the connection is not difficult and any student can handle it.
Panasonic Viera Connect Smart TVs and My Home Screen System
The former name of the system from Panasonic was called Cast. now this Connect and it became possible to download applications from the application store. The TVs themselves are very elegant, when the platform is loaded, seriousness and reliability are felt.
Here we are immediately waiting for all the same Twitter, Facbook, Local Weather, Picasa, etc. Several applications for watching online TV - the channel "Russia", "EuroSport" and "EuroNews". But many distinguish that sometimes the localization of Viera Connect suffers, so there are very few regional applications.
The interface itself turned out to be very flexible in settings. " Homepage» contains previews of current channels, interactive applications and whatever the user wants. You can choose the number of icons, their location, display desired widgets etc. On TVs with a built-in camera, identification will occur and the system configured under specific user. Those. faces are recognized.
Perhaps, in the settings system, he can compete with LG, there are really a lot of them here and it’s not without reason that the company positions its offspring as The world's first personalized TV. The number of applications in VIERA Connect Market is growing every day and now boasts a large set of popular Russian and European services. What is the choice of online cinemas worth :P lay, ivi.ru, Zoomby, Tvigle, NOW.RU, Megogo, Stream and TVZAVR. Install them and you don't have to watch TV at all 🙂 Create your own TV for family, friends and relatives.
The built-in browser works perfectly, plays all the videos, but you need to get used to the controls. The TV supports connecting a mouse or keyboard via USB, Bluetooth, which will greatly simplify menu navigation. Just like competitors, there are applications for Android and iOS to use the smartphone as a touch cursor.
Branded application VIERA Remote allows you to transfer photos, music or videos from your phone to the TV screen with one click and vice versa.
Panasonic TVs accept voice commands, thanks to a special remote control with a microphone. Just click function button and say the command, the list of which is displayed on the screen. It is very convenient to use in the browser if you need to quickly find something, and typing this query is very long.
And about a miracle! There is Vkontakte here, the application is very well created, it works quickly, but a somewhat stripped-down version. You can't post here, but you don't have to. You can watch videos and put "likes".
More recently, the system has been updated and became known as . It has a more pleasant and thoughtful design and contains everything you need on one screen. It is possible to adapt to each member of the family.
Toshiba Smart TV
Toshiba has always been famous for the quality of its technology, but it was the last to come to Smart TV technology. And it is noticeable from the first seconds. There is nothing special to describe here, everything is extremely simple. The service under the name is not distinguished by something outstanding. But it is a powerful Internet portal for accessing various services and entertainment. Place s here are the different zones for a particular function: TV, Video, Music, Social networks, News, Games. Standard sets like everyone else.
Technology Personal TV allows you to store up to 4 user settings for different family members. Here the sound configuration, images, list of favorites TV channels. It is determined either when you turn it on and select the appropriate setting, or when you identify the user using the camera.
The updated interface, although it looks more attractive, but the functionality remains the same.
The browser does not have the ability to visit the sites that you want, only those that are already programmed into the TV. There is also no way to download apps.
Maybe this is how it should look smart tv? The maximum minimum and you do not need to understand the settings for a long time. Simplicity and elegance. Many users share the secret not to choose in the Russia region, because. you just won't find the content. Choose Germany and you will be surprised by the number of videos and digital channels.
Philips Smart TV
The platform from Philips. Their famous backlight Ambilight has already won the hearts of customers all over the world. Let's see what it is smart TV system.
You will be pleasantly surprised, but Philips TVs, even budget models, have a Wi-Fi module, which means that all Smart TV functions will be even more accessible to all segments of customers.
Out of the box applications are standard, these are: YouTube, Vimeo, Dailymotion, Twitter, Facebook, several online TV services, Picasa and internet radio widgets. But using the TV as a radio is too much. In the catalog of applications available for download, you can find Megogo and Zoomby online cinemas, a large number of Russian video resources, applications and widgets from Yandex with information about the weather, exchange rates, news announcements and traffic jams.
Function SimplyShare allows you to combine a TV and a computer, provides communication with any device that supports Wi-Fi. Modern models are able to play any content thanks to the built-in modern codecs.
Browser showed good speed at work Flash support and HTML5, which means that all sites will be displayed without problems. It is possible to connect wired/wireless mice and keyboards.
And, of course, the manufacturer took care of applications for smartphones called Philips My Remote for quick control TV.
Remote control
For such cool and sophisticated TVs, respectively, you need good remote remote control. Not every manufacturer has taken care to provide the device with good and convenient navigation through the system menu. Some are just in the usual way, but in order to type the text you need to follow the principle mobile phone press the key several times. We have allocated a special section for this to talk about the remote control. It is from this small device and depends on your convenience of working with technology. Most TVs come with two remote controls, one for normal TV viewing and one for smart entertainment. Be sure to check the availability of an additional remote control before buying, hold it in your hands, try using it in the Smart TV menu.
Samsung lost a little with the remote in terms of ease of use. The cursor is very difficult to position on the screen, although the buttons are touch-sensitive, it can be difficult to understand how to work with them. And in terms of batteries, a lot of users have declared the fragility of their work. Therefore, we recommend purchasing powerful batteries and recharge them as needed.
The design of the remote from Samsung has changed and in early 2014 the company showed an updated device for Smart TV. The ability to control gestures, voice commands, it has become more convenient to lie in your hand, a convenient touchpad.
Look at remote control for Smart TV from LG, a proprietary development called Magic Motion. It comes with a gyroscope that can track your hand and move the cursor on the screen at the same time. A few minutes of training and you will feel like a wizard with a wand. If you remember the Nintendo Wii joysticks, then the remote control works on the same principle.
Depending on the TV model, such “beauties” with button illumination may also be present.
Remote from Sony more like a phone. In addition to the basic Smart TV control features, it has a full keyboard on the rear panel for ease of use. social networks or speed dial search queries and Internet addresses. The main remote looks like a brick, very heavy and uncomfortable.
Toshiba's remote controls are mostly standard, they are not original, but only complicate the work with the system. In expensive models, it looks more attractive, but the principle of operation is the same - push-button. All hope is here Smart control TV only on smartphone applications.
At Philips, the remote is slightly uncomfortable in the hand, but it is functional, the touchpad is responsive, like on laptops.
Panasonic's remote controls are fine. The standard one is normal, but for controlling the “smart” functions it looks like Siemens Xelibri from the article about. There are a minimum of buttons, and ease of operation.
If the standard remote control is not enough for you or you have broken your own, then you can think about buying universal remote control for Smart TV, they are from different manufacturers. There is also a special keyboard for Smart TV, for each manufacturer it is sold separately and is not supplied in the kit.
But from such a set various devices your head may spin. It was much easier to do everything at once in one gadget. Like the Logitech Harmony Ultimate remote. Supports all devices and can control any appliances in the house. True and the price of such a device will make you think about buying.
Results
In our next articles, we will definitely talk about modern models TVs on the markets and decide what alternative Smart TV exists.
