You have probably come across the term smart TV at some point. At the latest when you are looking for a new TV, you will hardly get past a Smart TV these days. Smart TV is mostly made by an integrated computer that connects the TV to the Internet. In the following, you will find out what it looks like in terms of data protection law and what exactly characterizes a smart TV.
What distinguishes a smart TV?
Whether Samsung or LG, all new devices are marketed as smart TVs or hybrid TVs. But what exactly is "smart" about the devices? First and foremost, a smart TV is characterized by its connection to the Internet. In short, a smart TV includes an operating system with which you can access, manage and display online and network-based media content without having to use an additional device (e.g. a Fire TV stick). Read here how you can upgrade a conventional television to a smart TV.
Almost all smart TVs are equipped with both an Ethernet connection and built-in Wi-Fi. Some older models may require an adapter to enable Wi-Fi functionality. You can use the Internet connection to play content that goes beyond the regular TV program. These include services such as Netflix, YouTube or music streaming via Spotify. You can also use the red button on your remote control to access the media libraries of the individual TV channels, where you can call up missed programs and additional content. Even live TV via apps like Zattoo can be watched on smart TVs - so you don't even need a cable connection anymore. The television tuner is integrated in a smart TV and has all the functions that a computer can provide.You can also surf the web using a browser, for example..
The exact way in which you can navigate through the Smart TV menu depends on the brand of the TV and the operating system or interface provided. Most of the time, the menu is very intuitive so that you can access the relevant content with a click of the remote control on an app. You can read which apps we recommend in our article on the 10 best smart TV apps.
Are Smart TVs Spy on You?
Using a smart TV from Samsung and Co. can lead to data protection problems. As a rule, smart TVs and the providers of the apps track your viewing habits on the grounds that they generate suggestions and advertising that are better tailored to you. In addition, there is also the possibility that third-party apps may spy on you and use the voice control and webcam on your Smart TV. Therefore, always be careful and only install trustworthy apps. We also recommend integrating a pi-hole in your network to prevent any trackers. How you can also protect smart TVs with network methods, read in this article..
