In most ways, an internet-equipped TV (often called a smart TV) delivers the same functionality as a hardware streaming device like a Roku or Apple TV, as well as the usual television channels provided by an antenna or cable/satellite subscription.
How Internet TVs Work
You’ll need a high-speed internet connection and an unlimited or generous data allowance with your internet provider to take advantage of all the features of an internet-enabled TV. These sets differ from televisions that double as computer monitors—although many can do that as well—because no computer or outside equipment is required to display web content. It is important to note, however, that viewable internet content varies by manufacturer. All major television manufacturers make smart TVs with beautiful displays, so picking out the correct set for you can be difficult.
What Services Do You Get on an Internet TV?
When you are shopping for an internet TV, make sure you find out what features it has. If you are an audiophile, streaming music apps are probably important to you. If you’re a gamer, you’ll want to check out the video game compatibility. Each manufacturer uses a collection of features that vary from model to model. Popular free and paid features that are available on internet TVs include:
What You Need
To use the internet-enabled functions on a TV, you must connect the television to the internet. In most cases, this can be done wirelessly (which requires a wireless router), but some televisions require a wired Ethernet connection. After the TV is connected to your wireless router or directly to your modem by cable, it uses your high-speed broadband internet connection to deliver internet content.
