Smart TVs boast a treasure trove of possibilities thanks to their built-in internet connection and app capabilities. This powerful combination transforms your TV into a versatile entertainment hub. It offers access to a world of streaming services, music, gaming, and more.
But with countless apps available, where do you begin? You don’t need to worry one bit. This guide will equip you with the essential apps to download on your new smart TV. We’ll explore a range of categories to ensure you have everything you need for endless entertainment.
YouTube – Your Gateway to Endless Entertainment
Let’s dive into the first essential app: YouTube. Imagine your smart TV without YouTube – it would feel incomplete! This app reigns supreme, offering a seemingly endless library of videos. Independent creators and major companies contribute to YouTube’s vast collection. This ensures there’s something for everyone.
For many, YouTube seamlessly integrates with their existing Google ecosystem. Signing in instantly syncs your playlists, viewing history, and preferences, making it a familiar and personalized experience. The sheer volume of content guarantees you’ll never be at a loss for something to watch.
Tubi – Free Entertainment at Your Fingertips
Next up is Tubi, a fantastic option for cord-cutters and budget-conscious viewers. Feeling overwhelmed by the ever-growing list of paid streaming services? Tubi offers a refreshing alternative. It is a completely free, ad-supported platform packed with movies and TV shows. The best part? You don’t even need to create an account to start browsing its extensive library!
Spotify – Stream Music, Podcasts, and More on Your Smart TV
Let’s explore the world of audio entertainment. While countless music and podcast streaming services compete for your attention, Spotify stands out as a top choice. Similar to video streaming, Spotify offers both free and paid tiers to suit your needs.
Beyond its vast music library, Spotify boasts a wide selection of podcasts and audiobooks. You might wonder why you’d stream audio through your smart TV. Here’s the beauty – it’s perfect for setting the mood with background music or creating a calming white noise ambiance. Plus, if your TV boasts a soundbar or home theater setup, Spotify unlocks the potential of your sound system for an immersive listening experience.
Steam Link – Take Your PC Gaming to the Big Screen of Your Smart TV
Calling all gamers! If you’ve built your gaming world around the Steam ecosystem, the Steam Link app is a game-changer. This innovative app lets you stream your favorite PC games directly onto your smart TV’s expansive screen.
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Now, Steam Link isn’t for everyone. If you’re a console gamer with a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, or Nintendo Switch already hooked up, this app might not be necessary. But for dedicated PC gamers, Steam Link offers incredible flexibility. Imagine kicking back on your couch and enjoying your favorite PC titles on the big screen – pure gaming bliss!
VLC Media Player – Unplug and Play Your Own Media Collection on Smart TV
We all crave a break from the constant stream of recommendations and advertisements from streaming services sometimes. VLC Media Player offers a refreshing escape, allowing you to play your personal media collection directly on your smart TV – no internet connection required!
Think of VLC as your own digital library. This versatile app effortlessly handles a wide range of media formats, so you can revisit your favorite movies, shows, or even home videos with ease. In a world dominated by streaming, VLC empowers you to take control and enjoy your own curated content on the big screen.
Plex – Your Personal Media Hub (For Advanced Users)
For the media enthusiasts and cord-cutters out there, Plex offers a powerful solution. This app transforms your smart TV into a personal media hub, seamlessly organizing all your existing movies and shows stored on your computer or cloud storage. Think of it as your own centralized library, accessible from the comfort of your couch.
Plex goes beyond personal content. It boasts a library of free on-demand movies and shows, live TV channels (depending on your location), podcasts, and even web shows. Intrigued? For a mere $5 per month, the premium version unlocks the ability to watch and record over-the-air broadcasts, expanding your entertainment options even further.
Google Chrome – Browse the Internet from Your Smart TV
Traditionally, Google Chrome wouldn’t be found pre-installed on Android TV devices, nor is there a dedicated Android TV version available through the Play Store. However, there are alternative methods to install Chrome, though sideloading isn’t necessary. By visiting the Chrome listing on the Play Store from a web browser, your Android TV might be recognized as a compatible device.
The appeal of Chrome lies in syncing your bookmarks and browsing history across devices once you sign in with your Google account. The caveat? Chrome wasn’t optimized for the big-screen experience. Navigation requires a mouse and keyboard for smooth operation, which might not be ideal for casual browsing on your couch.
If you’re a tech-savvy user who craves the flexibility of web browsing on your smart TV, Chrome presents a viable option. Just keep in mind the limitations before diving in.
