- Update your system Smart TV It improves security, fixes bugs, and adds features.
- Android TV, Google TVTizen and WebOS have similar update processes but with different menus.
- Updates can arrive via OTA or be installed manually from USB on compatible models.
- El hardware Older versions may limit access to newer versions and certain modern applications.
If you have a smart TV at home, it's not enough to just plug it in and forget about it: Updating your Smart TV's software is just as important as updating your mobile phone or computer.The new versions fix bugs, add features, improve performance and, above all, patch security holes that could leave your TV vulnerable.
Today, brands like Sony, Philips, TCL, and Xiaomi are betting on Android TV y Google TV as OS GoalsSamsung uses Tizen, while LG uses WebOS. Each system has its own menu and settings names, so the update process varies slightly depending on the manufacturer, but in all cases you'll need a stable internet connection or, alternatively, a USB drive.
Why it's important to keep your Smart TV updated
Beyond the typical apps de Netflix, YouTube or Spotify, The key to a smart TV lies in its operating systemIf you don't update it, with There You may start to see strange errors, unexpected application closures, or even services that stop working because they no longer support older versions of the system.
Manufacturers typically distribute updates over the internet using the system OTA (Over The Air), that is, the downloads They arrive directly on the television in stages. This gradual rollout is done so that to reduce the risk of a bug in one version affecting all users at onceSo a model similar to yours might receive it sooner or later.
Although updates usually bring improvements, many experts recommend Do not install the first version on the same day it appears.Sometimes, a rushed update can introduce new errors: the system crashes, options disappear, or an app stops working correctly.
This does not mean you have to leave your TV with the firmware it came with from the factory: Keeping a TV for years without updating is even worse.Because you'll miss out on security patches and bug fixes that can affect even daily use. Ideally, you should wait a few days, check forum comments or the manufacturer's website, and if everything seems stable, then update.
In short, your goal should be to find a middle ground: Don't always leave it to the last minute, but don't get stuck on an old version either.And if you have any doubts, it's a good idea to check if the manufacturer provides official information about the changes in each update.
How to update a Smart TV with Google TV
Google TV is the direct evolution of Android TV: It retains the Android base but reorganizes the interface to focus more on recommended content.The app shows you movies and series that might interest you based on your usage. Although it looks different, the update system is quite simple and is managed through the settings.
On most TVs with Google TV (such as many recent models from Sony, TCL, or some certified TV Boxes), The remote includes a gear-shaped button to go directly to Settings.If your controller doesn't have it, you can also access the settings from the top right of the home screen.
Once you're in the menu, you'll need to go to the system section. You'll usually find something like this: “System” and then an option like “About TV” or “Information”, where the technical data and upgrade options are grouped.
From there you'll see a section called something similar to “System software update”By selecting it, the TV will search Google and the manufacturer's servers to see if a new version is available for your specific model.
If an update is detected, you will be able to download it and begin the installation process. During this time the TV may restart several times and the process usually takes about 10 or 15 minutesIt is crucial not to turn off the TV or unplug it during the update, or you could cause a serious system error.
How to update a TV with Android TV
Although Google TV is currently getting more headlines, Android TV is still present in many models from Sony, Philips, TCL, Xiaomi and in countless TV BoxesThe appearance of the menus varies depending on the manufacturer, but the path to update the system is usually very similar in almost all of them.
On many Android TVs, the remote includes a A house-shaped "Home" button that takes you to the main screenFrom there, you'll see the gear icon in the upper right corner to access Settings. On other models, especially some older Sony devices, you may also find a "Help" button or a shortcut to "Help" within the Apps section.
Within the settings, there is often a specific section for the software. On some Philips Android TVs, for example, The “Update software” option appears directly in the left-hand menu.usually at the end of the list. With other manufacturers, the path leads through sections like "Device Preferences" or "Support".
When you enter that update block, you'll find several options: manually search for a new version, view the currently installed version, enable or disable automatic updates, and even check the change history.If you want to update, simply select "Check for updates" and wait for the system to check for new firmware.
If a version is available, it will appear on the screen with the basic details and you can start the installation. It is important to let the process finish and restart the TV when prompted.because the final restart is what ensures that all system files are applied correctly.
Regarding automatic updates, many advanced users prefer Keep them disabled to prevent the TV from updating itself without warning.This way you can choose the right time, check beforehand if that version is having problems, and avoid unexpected surprises in the middle of a series marathon.
Configure automatic updates on Android TV and Google TV
On both Android TV and Google TV, the system allows enable or disable automatic search and installation of updatesThis is usually found in the same "Software Update" section, with a simple checkbox or switch.
If you enable automatic updates, the TV will take care of it. Check periodically for new versions, download them in the background, and in many cases, install them when you shut down or restart your computer.It's the most convenient option if you don't want to worry about anything.
If you disable them, you'll be the one who has to Go into the settings from time to time and tap on “Check for updates”It may seem more cumbersome, but you gain total control over which version you install and when you do it, which is appreciated if the TV is the main multimedia center of the house.
In any case, it is recommended that, even if you keep automatic updates disabled, Don't let too much time pass without checking for updates.Sometimes you might get a pleasant surprise and discover that your TV or TV Box is already compatible with Google TV or other important improvements.
It's also worth remembering that, although Google controls the base system, Brands may take more or less time to adapt and release each update.That's why two models with Android TV or Google TV don't always receive the same version at the same time.
Common problems when updating and hardware compatibility
Not all problems when trying to update a Smart TV are due to the file or the process: In many cases the obstacle lies in the limitations of the hardwareThere are relatively old televisions that, although they run Android, do not support the latest versions or the most modern apps.
A typical example is some budget-friendly models with 32-bit ARMv7 processorsThese were very common years ago in televisions sold under various brands. Many current applications and some recent versions of Android TV and Google TV are designed for 64-bit CPUs, so these devices are excluded from the latest update cycle.
If your television is several years old and, even after installing the official manufacturer's firmware, Apps like YouTube or Netflix stop working or display compatibility errorsIt is quite likely that the problem is that the hardware no longer meets the minimum requirements of the new versions of the apps.
In those cases, no matter how much you try to "format" the TV or install different firmware, There is usually no miracle solution to convert a 32-bit device into a 64-bit one.The most practical solution is usually to add an external TV Box or a Chromecast with Google TV that takes on the role of the "intelligent brain", using the TV only as a screen.
Errors can also occur during the update process due to more mundane causes: Power outages, internet disconnections during download, faulty USB drives, or corrupted filesThat's why it's important to use good cables, reliable USB drives, and, if possible, keep the TV connected to a stable power outlet while updating.
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