Top-5 SmartTV Features to Try

You may have heard of SmartTVs, but do you really know what they are capable of? Let's dive into the details to find out more.

1. HEARING A LOT OF BANGING MACHINES
   Yes, we were all excited when we learned that the new LG G7 and Samsung S8 had noise isolation technology, preventing outside noise from being broadcast to your TV. However, this feature only gets used by TV makers for marketing purposes. In reality, the sound on these devices is not isolated at all. It turns out that the TVs are just as noisy as ever when their built-in microphones are turned on. I tested this out by recording a conversation in my kitchen and played it back on my TV. Even though the TV was muted, I could still make out most of what was being said.
2. REMOTE CONTROLLING YOUR TV
   There are times when you need to control your TV from another room. Perhaps the TV is on and you want to switch to a different channel, or mute the sound. Thanks to the growing presence of smart speakers in every home, it's now possible to command your TV with your voice. The best part is that this feature is completely free. All you need is a TV tuner, a wifi connection and the Google Assistant button on your device. Just connect the Google Assistant button to your wifi, and you're good to go.
3. SUPER BED TIMING
   If you're a night owl, you'll know how frustrating it can be when you're trying to get some sleep and the room keeps turning on. Wouldn't it be great if there was a setting on your TV that could automatically turn off your screen at a certain time? I remember when this feature was first introduced it caused a lot of complaints from people who were already sleeping. Now that TVs come with a built-in light sensor, it's much easier for the devices to determine when it's dark and when it's light, so the TV can switch itself off at the right time. This feature isn't only limited to TVs either. You can use similar sensors in other appliances to make them behave when it's dark and light out. For example, outside of your window, the air conditioner can turn on and off, or the lights inside the house can be controlled via the WiFi.
4. FASTER AND SLOWER THAN YOU THINK
   Did you know that TVs are getting faster and slimmer? While 4K TVs were once the pinnacle of TV size and display technology, they are no longer the only option available. Even 2K televisions are now capable of displaying more information thanks to high-speed internet and WiFi networks. In the future, TVs are expected to become lighter and more energy efficient, resulting in a longer battery life. This is great for people who frequently switch sources or turn up the volume on their TVs at night. For instance, the new LG G7 TV is 15% smaller than its predecessor and yet still has a large 5.7-inch screen. It runs on an octa-core processor and is compatible with both 4K and standard HD sources. Meaning, it can display both high-resolution images and standard-definition ones.
5. THE FUTURE OF TV
   When it comes to the future of television, who doesn't love the idea of smart TVs that know what you want and need? It would be great if we could just walk into a TV shop and pick out the perfect TV for our needs, no fuss, no muss. This is why we have the internet. With the help of artificial intelligence (AI), smart TVs will learn what you like and don't like, and make recommendations based on your viewing history. In addition, if you have multiple televisions in your home, they can negotiate with one another to display images at their best possible quality. Imagine walking into your living room and seeing two TVs side by side. One is showing you the best images the other can offer, thanks to AI magic!

Are you enjoying reading this article? You might also like these related articles:

How to Build a Playground for Your Kids

Kids grow up so fast these days, what used to be considered kid's playtime has now become an essential part of their childhood. Whether it's video games, tablets or smart phones, spending time with children is increasingly becoming a digital activity.

Since laptops, desktops and tablets are highly susceptible to damage from falling or sudden impacts, it's essential that playgrounds are also equipped with the most up-to-date safety measures. More and more families are choosing safety-focused play solutions that combine the familiarity of childhood with the thrill of interactive technology. Let's take a look at some of the most popular options available today.

Nintendo Switch Lite

The Switch is a hybrid console built on the playfulness of the original Nintendo Wii U and the usability of a portable device. Portability is one of the major selling points of the Switch. It can be easily taken along wherever you go, and setup on the go is incredibly simple. If you've ever used a smartphone, you'll feel right at home with the Switch. Even better, the dual-screen setup of the Switch makes playing certain games a lot more immersive.

Steam Deck & SteamVR

The Steam Deck is a powerful all-in-one device capable of handling even the most demanding games. Thanks to its internal storage and small footprint, you can easily transport it anywhere. The hardware-level tracking in VR is unprecedented in its accuracy and reliability. Steamvr is a VR headset specifically designed for playing on the go. It features a wide field of view and high comfort levels, making it a perfect choice for the whole family.

Xiaomi Mi 5 / Mi Box

Xiaomi Mi5 is the culmination of almost a decade of research and development, creating a smartphone so slim and light that it doesn't need to be charged every night. Its screen curves around the face, creating a uni-body design that is both aesthetic and functional. The Mi Box is the small companion box that plugs into the back of the Mi 5 and allows for wireless charging. Together, they form the lightest and thinnest Mi branded product lineup yet. They draw power from a single charge and have enough storage to download games and other content to enjoy on the go.

Razer Project Valerie

Valerie is a game-changing PC that pairs the robust performance of a desktop with the mobility of a laptop. It's all-in-one PC is so thin and light that it's actually attracted fans of the genre who wouldn't usually buy a PC. Its design language is inspired by the 1950s, when desktop computers weren't ubiquitous and laptops were a luxury reserved for the wealthy. Valerie runs Microsoft Windows 10 and comes with either a 128GB or a 256GB solid-state drive, enabling users to store multiple games and large music libraries. An integrated microphone and speaker allow for hands-free calls using Skype or Google Voice, while a headphone jack and a mini display port enable for listening to music and playing games, respectively.

Choosing the right entertainment system for your home isn't as easy as it might seem. Each device has its perks and quirks that you need to consider. Do you need a TV that is easy to use and set up? How about one that is better for the environment? Look for all the information you need in the reviews section of the site, or contact us if you have any questions about which device is right for your family.