Smart TVs have been popular with consumers for several years, but more and more businesses and organizations are starting to adopt this technology. Compared to how often you would see a Smart TV 10 years ago, these appliances have exploded in popularity. However, if you’re still not quite sure what makes a TV “smart,” we can help clear up the confusion. Keep reading to learn all about smart TVs, including what they are and how they work.

What are smart TVs?

Smart TVs form a category of televisions that have quickly taken over the industry. These televisions use internet connections to offer streaming services through a variety of applications, browsers, and more. Brands such as VIZIO introduced the first smart televisions during the early 2010s, and the market for these TVs has only grown since. By 2015, more television manufacturers and brands began introducing their own versions. From the late 2010s up to modern day, smart TVs have become a household staple for many families. In fact, most shoppers now look specifically for internet access and app functionality when they buy a television.

What does the "smart" in Smart TV mean?

Consider smart TVs as the cross between a standard television and a computer. Much like your smartphone, these TVs run on operating systems, which is how they provide internet connections and other services. If a television has internet connectivity, runs on an operating system, and has access to applications such as streaming and browsers, it is considered a smart television.

What are the differences between Smart TVs and standard televisions?

The biggest difference between standard TVs and smart televisions is the lack of Wi-Fi or internet connectivity in standard televisions. This connection allows them to download and connect directly to streaming services, web browsers, and more without the need for accessories or cable attachments. Traditionally, televisions only had access to streaming services and internet connectivity through streaming sticks, video game consoles, and other accessories. Now, these features come built into the television itself, which frees up access to HDMIs and other ports that these devices would use. Smart TVs also have other modern features, such as Bluetooth and wireless connectivity with your smartphone, which makes streaming and navigation faster and easier.

How do smart TVs work?

Many smart TVs connect to the internet through Wi-Fi; this is especially convenient when your television is located further away from the router. However, you can connect a smart TV directly to the internet through an ethernet connection, though this may be impractical for homes or businesses with fewer ethernet connections. If you’re looking for speed and clarity, ethernet provides the fastest and most stable internet connection.

Once your TV is connected, you’ll be prompted to enter any necessary passwords and complete basic system setup with the customers’ preferences. Many TVs automatically have some of the most popular streaming apps installed, such as Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more.

What are some common features found in smart televisions?

Because they can connect to the internet, they offer many of the same features and services your smartphone can access. In fact, many of these TVs offer smartphone connectivity, allowing you to stream videos straight from your phone to the larger television screen. Smart TVs can also wirelessly connect to other devices throughout the home or business, such as laptops, tablets, and more. As previously mentioned, these TVs may offer a large library of applications for your favorite streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more. Many TVs include web browser applications, which allow you to check the news, weather, and other quick updates even without cable. Smart televisions also feature efficient menus and user interfaces.

What are the benefits of choosing Smart TVs?

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a smart TV over a standard model is the range of features it offers through internet connection. In previous models, you couldn’t access the internet without using additional devices, such as a streaming stick or console. But with these TVs, you can stream your favorite shows, movies, and online videos, all without signing up for costly cable services. They also make it easier to customize user interfaces and present information that you’ll use daily.

Additionally, there are many benefits of choosing smart TVs for your business. If you manage a hotel or other hospitality service, they provide all the aforementioned benefits to your customers, which can result in a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience for your guests. The TVs’ streamlined interfaces make them easy to use and navigate, which saves your users from redirecting setup questions to your business’s staff. Also, the sleek design of these televisions can help your rooms feel more modern.

What are some applications for Smart televisions?

While these sets are mainly marketed for consumer use, businesses should also consider upgrading their television systems and other technology to smart versions. Smart TVs can provide the comforts of home for your business’s visitors. Educational campuses, hotels and hospitality services, office buildings, and other facilities would all make ideal environments for smart TVs.

Where can you find Smart TVs for your business?

If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your business, especially for hotels and other hospitality services, consider updating your televisions. Because smart televisions are so popular with modern consumers, many guests expect to see upgraded models in hotels and other businesses. Using these new models can improve customer experience and promote returning guests.

If you’re interested in stocking hospitality smart TVs for your business, browse our selection of modern models here at Transworld. We supply the latest smart TVs from top brands like LG and Samsung at wholesale prices so you can equip all your hotel rooms or facilities with upgraded amenities. These televisions come with all the latest features, such as 4K picture clarity, internet, and streaming video applications.

Now that you know more about them and how they work, you may want to take advantage of the benefits that these systems could offer your business. If you run a hotel or hospitality service, consider investing in smart TVs to enhance your customers’ experiences. Feel free to reach out to our hospitality tech experts directly for any inquiries you have.