Ars TechnicaDec 12
The Ars Technica guide to “dumb” TVs
Sick of smart TVs? Here are your best options.
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/12/the-ars-technica-guide-to-dumb-tvs/?utm_brand=arstechnica&utm_social-type=owned&utm_source=mastodon&utm_medium=social
Show threadRay McCarthyDec 12

@arstechnica
Just don't connect Ethernet, nor enter the WiFi password.

The only "Dumb" screens sold here are monitors/

Show threadZimmie
@raymaccarthy @arstechnica Android TV has become a relatively popular OS for TV manufacturers to include. It generally doesn’t let you do anything until you give it Internet access *and* log in with a Google account.
Dec 12 at 4:38pmWeb
Show threadRay McCarthyDec 12

@bob_zim @arstechnica
The TV channels work and input selection work on Android TV with no network. Unless they changed it.

If connected it will try to report channels watched and if supported on an HDMI device, the info of DVD or BD being watched. Often to many destinations.

Use laptop / phone / tablet for internet content. Casting can be blocked by the app on a phone or tablet, so Linux / Windows / Mac with real HDMI cable is best. They used to put HDMI ports on Android phones & tablets.

Show threadZimmieDec 12
@raymaccarthy @arstechnica I’ve heard of Android TV units which don’t require logging in, but I’ve never actually seen one with my own eyes. Every single one I’ve personally tried (including several TVs and several projectors) is a paperweight until you have given it Internet access and logged in.
Show threadRay McCarthyDec 12

@bob_zim @arstechnica
That must be a new change and surely illegal in many countries.

I've never seen or heard of that. Our Android TV & projector have never been connected or logged in. I didn't even realise the projector was Android based at first till I discovered a built in wordprocessor and file browser!

Show threadBillDec 13

@bob_zim @raymaccarthy @arstechnica

I bought a Fire TV for the camper. I had to connect for setup, but it has been disconnected for the past two summers with no complaints.