What is the difference between a smart TV and a regular TV?

@toni 

A smart TV, also known as a connected TV, is a television set that is integrated with internet capabilities and has various built-in applications, features, and content streaming options. On the other hand, a regular TV, also called a standard or non-smart TV, does not have internet connectivity or any advanced features beyond traditional television broadcasting.

Here are some key differences between a smart TV and a regular TV:

1. Internet connectivity: A smart TV can connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, allowing users to access online content, streaming services, social media platforms, web browsing, and more. A regular TV does not have this capability and relies solely on broadcast signals from cable, satellite, or antennas.
2. Built-in apps: Smart TVs come preloaded with various applications or apps, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, etc. These apps provide access to a wide range of digital content directly on the TV. A regular TV lacks such built-in apps and requires external devices like streaming sticks, set-top boxes, or game consoles to access online content.
3. User interface and interactivity: Smart TVs have user-friendly interfaces designed for easy navigation, app selection, and content browsing, often employing a remote control with specific smart TV buttons and menus. They may also support voice commands, gestures, or even smartphone control options. Regular TVs typically have a simpler user interface with basic remote controls that focus on adjusting volume, channels, and inputs.
4. Content streaming and on-demand services: Smart TVs enable users to stream movies, TV shows, music, and other digital content directly from online platforms without requiring additional devices. Regular TVs may need external streaming devices like Chromecast, Roku, or Apple TV to access similar services.
5. Updates and future-proofing: Smart TVs often receive regular software updates to improve functionality, add new features, enhance security, or fix bugs. This provides a level of future-proofing since the TV's capabilities can be updated over time. Regular TVs do not typically receive such updates, as their functionality is limited to their built-in hardware.

It's important to note that some regular TVs can become "smart" by connecting external devices like media streamers, game consoles, or even using HDMI cables to connect a laptop or computer. So, the distinction between smart TVs and regular TVs can sometimes be blurred depending on the additional devices and connectivity options used.

@toni 

Overall, the main difference between a smart TV and a regular TV lies in the internet connectivity and built-in applications and features. Smart TVs offer a more interactive and connected viewing experience, allowing users to access a wide range of online content, streaming services, and apps directly on the TV without the need for additional devices. Regular TVs, on the other hand, do not have internet capabilities or built-in apps and are limited to traditional television broadcasting.