Smart TVs are packed with advanced features that go beyond simple streaming. While most people know about apps like Netflix and YouTube, many other hidden gems in smart TVs can enhance your viewing experience. If you’ve recently bought a smart TV or are considering upgrading, these lesser-known features are worth exploring!
1. Voice Control for Hands-Free Navigation
One of the coolest features of modern smart TVs is voice control. Many smart TVs now have built-in voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. This feature lets you change channels, adjust volume, or search for shows without touching the remote.
How It Works:
- Press the microphone button on your remote or say “Hey Google” or “Alexa” to activate the voice assistant.
- You can ask it to play music, turn on a specific channel, or search for shows and movies.
- Some smart TVs also allow you to control smart home devices with your voice, making managing your entire home entertainment system easier.
2. AI-Enhanced Picture Quality
AI (artificial intelligence) is becoming more common in smart TVs, especially for improving picture quality. AI picture enhancement analyzes the content you’re watching and adjusts the brightness, contrast, and sharpness for a better viewing experience.
How It Works:
- AI processors in your TV can analyze different scenes and automatically adjust settings to make the picture clearer and more vibrant.
- This feature is especially useful for content that is either too dark or too bright, as AI can fine-tune the image for perfect viewing.
If you love watching movies and shows in high quality, this is a great feature to try out.
3. Multi-Screen or Split Screen Mode
Did you know that some smart TVs allow you to watch two things at once? The multi-screen or split-screen mode lets you divide the TV screen into sections to watch different content simultaneously. This feature is perfect for multitaskers or families who want to enjoy different shows without switching channels.
How It Works:
- You can split the screen to watch live sports in one section and stream a movie in the other.
- Some smart TVs allow you to connect a smartphone or tablet to the TV screen and use the other section to display your mobile device’s content.
This feature can be super helpful when you need to keep up with multiple things at the same time.
4. Screen Mirroring for Easy Sharing
Screen mirroring is a fantastic way to share your smartphone, tablet, or computer screen with your smart TV. Whether you’re showing off photos, watching videos, or giving a presentation, this feature makes it easy to share content on a bigger screen.
How It Works:
- On your smart TV, activate screen mirroring in the settings menu.
- On your mobile device or computer, select your TV from the list of available devices.
- Your device’s screen will appear on your smart TV, and you can control it from your phone or computer.
This feature works great for family photo slideshows or sharing presentations with others.
5. Ambient Mode: Turning Your TV Into Artwork
When you’re not watching TV, Ambient Mode transforms your smart TV into a piece of art. Instead of a blank screen, it displays images, photos, or artwork, blending in with your room’s decor. Some smart TVs even allow you to upload your photos to create a personalized gallery.
How It Works:
- In Ambient Mode, you can select from a range of built-in themes, including nature scenes, art, or even your favorite family photos.
- Some models also have ambient lighting that adjusts the color temperature of the screen to match your surroundings.
This feature is perfect for creating a unique and cozy atmosphere in your home when your smart TV is not in use.
6. Smart TV Remote with Motion Control
Some smart TVs offer a remote with motion control, allowing you to use gestures to navigate through menus or control apps. This is a fun and innovative feature that makes it easier to interact with your TV without having to press buttons.
How It Works:
- Simply move the remote to select options on the screen or swipe through menus.
- The motion-sensing technology in the remote detects your hand movements and responds accordingly, giving you a more interactive and hands-on experience.
This feature adds a touch of fun and ease to your TV experience.
7. Picture-in-Picture Mode (PiP)
If you enjoy watching multiple shows at once or keeping up with the news while watching a movie, the Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode on some smart TVs allows you to display one program inside a smaller window while the main program plays in the background.
How It Works:
- In PiP mode, you can keep one screen playing in full size and the second screen in a small window on the corner of the TV.
- You can use PiP for things like keeping an eye on live sports while enjoying a movie or video chatting with a friend while watching your favorite show.
This feature is great for multitasking and makes it easy to stay informed or entertained at the same time.
8. Auto-Adjusting Audio for Optimal Sound
Some advanced smart TVs come with auto-adjusting audio that changes sound settings based on the content you’re watching. This means that whether you’re watching a movie, playing a video game, or listening to music, the TV will automatically adjust the sound for the best experience.
How It Works:
- The auto-sound adjustment feature analyzes the audio from your content and adjusts bass, treble, and balance to suit the situation.
- Some smart TVs also support Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound experience.
If you love high-quality sound, this feature will enhance your TV-watching experience, especially if you don’t want to fiddle with audio settings constantly.
Conclusion
Smart TVs offer a lot more than just streaming apps. From voice control to ambient lighting, there are plenty of smart TV features that can make your viewing experience more convenient and enjoyable. Whether you’re using AI-enhanced picture quality or enjoying split-screen viewing, these hidden features can transform the way you interact with your TV. Make sure to explore these smart TV features next time you’re setting up or using your TV!
