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It may seem like everyone you know is now in possession of a Smart TV, and this is because they have evolved dramatically over the years and become something that many of us can’t live without. Smart TVs began as a high-tech novelty and have transformed into a household name and a staple in homes worldwide. And there’s no wonder with their incredible technology advancements – a TV with a dedicated Netflix button? It’s no surprise everyone jumped onto the craze so quickly.
But, how much do these sets live up to their ‘smart’ name? In theory, having one is the way of the future, but it is essential to see how far smart actually goes and if it is worth the often larger price tag.
Here at Cheap LED TVs, you’re guaranteed to find a cheap smart TV at a low price – it’s what we do best. So come and explore our range today to find the one best suited to you and your home. But first – let’s learn more about the capabilities of smart TVs.
What is a Smart TV?
Smart TVs were known initially as ‘connected TVs’ and were later rebranded as ‘smart TVs’ by companies such as Samsung and LG. Now it is a blanket term for any TV that connects to the internet, primarily as devices that can access media streaming services and run apps such as YouTube, internet music stations, and web browsers.
Today virtually every major TV manufacturer makes smart TVs; the trend towards making everything smart has taken hold completely and led to a whole new way to watch television in the home. Most models have built-in Wi-Fi, but it is essential to check this before you buy and ensure that your Wi-Fi coverage in your home covers the desired spot for your new TV. There is also no standard interface or operating system, so it is vital to check that you get all the features you require before purchasing.
When Did Smart TVs First Appear?
The first-ever patent for a smart TV was in 1994 to a French firm – “Fast France Advanced Systems”). But it was not until 2007 that the first smart TV was developed commercially.
By the early 2010s, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) finally became affordable and took off, resulting in a near-total takeover of the television market at the time.
With the internet’s rise in popularity in the 2000s, TV manufacturers knew technological innovation was starting in their industry, and they all wanted to be the pioneers.
How far have Smart TVs Advanced Since then?
Since their debut into the industry, we can find many different brands offering smart TVs; in fact, it’s challenging to find a TV that doesn’t have smart capabilities. Although the basics are relatively standard amongst the big brand names (ability to connect to the internet, an app store, and built-in streaming services), each manufacturer offers a unique experience. When choosing which TV brand is right for you, make sure to read up about its features to ensure it’s what you are looking for.
When smart TVs were first launched, many struggled to afford the new technology as manufacturers priced them highly. Nowadays, thanks to retailers such as Cheap LED TVs, you can find an array of smart TVs to suit all budgets.
The Pros and Cons of Smart TVs
As with any technology, there is a list of pros and cons. We hope that by explaining both sides, we can help you decide whether a smart TV is suitable for you. Here are the benefits of smart TVs:
• You do not need a set-top box, such as a Chromecast, which can be expensive and take up room.
• Many smart sets have music streaming services, such as Spotify, as standard.
• Keep up to date on social media from the comfort of your couch.
• One remote; you no longer need multiple remotes for all the devices you previously needed to stream your movies and programmes.
• Play games! Most Smart TVs have fun family and solo games that you can play directly on your set.
• Fewer wires for fewer devices means a cleaner and less cluttered look for your home.
But there are also several key drawbacks:
• Smart TVs can sometimes cost more, as you pay for a long list of features.
• The user interface differs from brand to brand and sometimes from model to model, so a new TV could take some time to get used to.
• You may need to update your TV from time to time, as you would with a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
The Future of Smart TVs
We can’t predict the future, but it is undeniable that smart TVs and their technology is advancing in the blink of an eye. Here at Cheap LED TVs, we’re always ahead of the game because we want to provide our customers with the latest and greatest TV tech on the market. You’ll always find the cheapest smart TVs from the biggest brands with us, so come and browse our frequently updated stocklist today. For more information or advice on choosing the most suitable TV for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0121 327 3273 to speak to our friendly team.
