Most people use their smart TV for streaming shows or movies, but there are a lot of features built in that many users do not notice. Some of these features can save time, help with daily tasks, or just make watching TV a little better. This post covers smart TV features that are not talked about much but can be helpful. From voice control to built-in casting, smart home connections, content upscaling with AI, and stronger parental controls, this list will give you a better look at what your smart TV can do. If you want to get more out of your TV, keep reading to learn about these tools and settings.
Voice Control for Hands Free Operation
Voice control for hands-free operation is now a common feature in many Smart TVs. Instead of using a remote, you can speak simple commands to change the channel, search for shows, adjust the volume, or even turn the TV on and off. We love this feature for entering in complex passwords. Some TVs can also answer questions or control other smart devices in your home. This feature can be helpful for people who misplace remotes or have trouble using small buttons. Voice control is often built into the TV or works with smart speakers, so you do not need extra equipment. Many people find it easier to use than a traditional remote, especially when searching for shows or movies by name.
Built-In Casting from Mobile Devices
Built-in casting from mobile devices lets you send photos, videos, and music from your phone straight to your TV screen without extra wires or devices. Many Smart TVs now make it simple to connect your phone or tablet over Wi-Fi, so you can watch content from apps that are not always available on the TV itself. This can be helpful for sharing vacation photos with friends or streaming a video you found online. Built-in casting also means you do not have to rely on extra gadgets like streaming sticks or cables. It is usually as easy as tapping a button in your app and selecting your TV from the list. This feature can be useful for those who want a quick way to watch or listen to things from their phone on a bigger screen.
Smart Home Device Connections
Smart home device connections are one of those Smart TV features that many people do not use, but they can make things easier. When a Smart TV connects with devices like smart lights, thermostats, or security cameras, you can control these right from your TV screen. Some TVs work with voice assistants, so you can ask your TV to adjust the temperature or turn off the lights. This means you do not have to use separate apps or remotes for each device. Everything comes together in one place, which can be helpful if you have a lot of smart devices in your home.
Content Upscaling Using AI
Content upscaling using AI is a feature found in some newer Smart TVs. This tool takes lower-quality video and tries to make it look better on high-definition screens. When you watch old movies, standard cable, or videos that are not in 4K, the TV uses special algorithms to fill in details and smooth out rough spots. The goal is to give you a picture that looks sharper and closer to true high-definition. This can help make older or lower-quality shows look better without needing extra equipment or new versions of your favorite content. Many people may not realize their TV does this work in the background.
Advanced Parental Control Options
Advanced parental control options on smart TVs let parents manage what their kids watch without much trouble. These controls can block certain channels, set viewing times, and even filter content by age rating. Some models come with PIN codes or passwords to keep settings safe from kids. A few smart TVs also offer reports on what has been watched and let parents set up different profiles for each child. This makes it easier to keep track of screen time and make sure kids only see shows that are right for their age.
Personalized User Profiles
Personalized user profiles on smart TVs let each person in a home have their own space for watching shows and movies. With this feature, the TV can remember your viewing history and suggest things you might like based on what you have watched before. It can also keep your favorite apps and settings separate from others who use the same TV. This way, kids can have their own profiles with age-appropriate content, while adults have access to their own shows and preferences. This can make it easier to find what you want to watch without sorting through other people’s recommendations or settings.
Automatic Game Mode Settings
Automatic Game Mode Settings on Smart TVs help improve the gaming experience without extra effort from the user. When a gaming console is turned on, the TV can detect the signal and switch to a mode made for gaming. This mode reduces input lag, which means there is less delay between pressing a button and seeing the action on the screen. Some TVs also adjust the picture and sound settings to match what games need. With this feature, users do not have to manually change settings every time they want to play a game. This can save time and help games look and feel better right away. Many people do not know their TV can do this automatically, so it is helpful to check for this feature before starting a game.
Universal Search Across Apps
Universal search across apps lets you look for movies, TV shows, and videos on your Smart TV without opening each app one by one. When you type in or say what you want to watch, the TV checks all the apps you have, like Netflix, Hulu, and others, and shows you the results in one place. This saves time and keeps you from missing out on something just because you forgot which app it is in. With this feature, you do not have to remember where a show is streaming or go through lots of menus. It makes finding something to watch much easier.
On Screen Fitness and Wellness Tools
On screen fitness and wellness tools are now part of many Smart TVs. These features let you access workout programs, guided exercises, and even yoga routines right from your TV. Some models offer wellness apps that track your progress or remind you to stay active. Others include mindfulness activities such as guided meditation or breathing exercises. This means you do not need extra equipment or other devices to start a workout or relaxation session. Whether you want to stretch, break up long periods of sitting, or follow a fitness plan, these tools can help you use your TV for more than just watching shows.
Ambient Mode and Custom Backgrounds
Ambient Mode and custom backgrounds are features found on some Smart TVs that let you change the look of your screen when you are not watching anything. Instead of seeing a blank or black screen, you can choose to display photos, artwork, or patterns. Some TVs can blend in with the wall by showing colors or images that match your room. Others let you display family pictures or slideshows. This feature can help your TV fit in with your home’s style. If you want your TV to double as a digital photo frame or even display the weather, Ambient Mode and custom backgrounds make that possible.
Summary
Smart TVs have many features that are easy to miss if you only use them for watching shows or movies. Things like voice control, built-in casting, smart home connections, and content upscaling can help you get more out of your TV. Parental controls, user profiles, and automatic game settings also make it easier to set up the TV the way you want. Universal search, fitness tools, and custom backgrounds add even more ways to use your TV every day. If you check what features your smart TV has, you might find tools that make things easier or add a little convenience to your routine.
