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Ask Slashdot: Why Do You Want a 'Smart TV'?

Posted by msmash on from the food-for-thought dept.

Reader kheldan questions the need for a Smart TV (edited for clarity): Yesterday we read about how Samsung is planning on 'upgrading' the firmware in its smart TVs so that it could inject ads into your video streams. This raises the question yet again: Why do you even need a 'smart TV' in the first place? We live in an age where media-center computers and DVRs are ubiquitous, and all your TV really needs to be is a high-def monitor to connect to these devices. Even many smartphones have HDMI connectivity, and a Raspberry Pi is inexpensive and can play 1080 content at full framerate. None of these devices are terribly expensive anymore, and the price jump from a non-smart TV to a smart TV makes it difficult to justify the expense. Also, remember previous articles posted on the subject of surveillance many of these smart TVs have been found guilty of. So I put it to you, denizens of Slashdot: Why does anyone really want a 'smart TV'?

6 of 507 comments (clear)

  1. That isn't the link you are looking for . . . by UnknowingFool · · Score: 4, Informative

    The link goes to the story yesterday on how Panasonic is stopping production of LCDs for TVs.

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  2. Netflix in 4k by IDreamInCode · · Score: 5, Informative

    As of right now, Netflix only plays in 4k directly on a smart TV or a few authorized media devices but no mention of a self made computer.

  3. Re:I don't by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Informative

    I find that the combination of a 'dumb-with-DLNA' (2011 era) Samsung 40" + Chromecast 2nd gen is killer.

  4. Re:Netflix 4K only on Smart TV by steppin_razor_LA · · Score: 5, Informative

    I believe the Roku 4 supports Netflix at 4K. I suspect the Tivo Bolt does as well.

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  5. Re:I don't by NewtonsLaw · · Score: 3, Informative

    "Some of the Android media centers are cheaper than the Pi once you include the cost of the remote."

    KODI allows you to use your TV's remote control in many cases -- there's no need for a separate remote.

  6. Re:I don't by amicusNYCL · · Score: 3, Informative

    May not be a "requirement" but you can't find anything non-"smart" to purchase new.

    Yes you can, they are called names like "display panel" instead of "TV". Here you go, notice that many of those have integrated TV tuners. That's essentially a monitor with a TV tuner, which sounds exactly like what people in this thread are saying they use their TV for.

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