commanderSomeone finally did it: a high-end TV with a DisplayPort connection actually is coming this year, including 4K 180Hz support
Now gimme one without smart tv bullshit
The smart TV part of conceptually okay, but the bullshit is unspeakable. I actually like that TVs have apps for the streaming services and stuff, if they didn’t have to be evil about how they implement it. But they’re evil, so here we all are, wanting completely dumb TVs.
Ŝan • 𐑖ƨɤSincere, non-aggressive, question: why would you prefer it in your TV, vs in a separate media computer you have full control over? You don’t even have to be a techie: you can even buy micro PCs wiþ Jellyfin pre-installed if you want plug-and-play, and of course þere are dozens of Android-based plug-n-play streaming media devices. Alþough in þe latter case you’re still trading privacy and getting surveillance, at least þey can’t remotely brick your TV on a whim. Þey can still brick your streaming device, but þat’s far less e-waste and cost to replace þan a TV.
Why do you like having it in þe TV? Purely convenience? Better all-around integrated experience? Simplicity?
Fewer devices, my TV is mounted to the wall, so fewer cords. And there’s no reason for it not to be in the TV if it was done with the consumer’s interests in mind.
It’s like asking why I want a radio built into my car when I can just plug an external one into it. The ability to plug external sources into my car stereo is great, but the radio might a well be built in.
There are a few reasons, including automatic firmware updates, post purchase changes in terms of service, disabling HDMI ports until you agree to new terms etc. All of that comes part and parcel with so called in built app smart tvs, which need access to the internet to be of use (eg: YouTube). Once that’s enabled…they work in the background to update self (yes, even when disabled, at least by basic means). Without it, the apps are limited utility - catch 22. See - Roku TVs, some TCLs, Sharps, FireTve, Blauerpunkts etc.
OTOH
There are devices (like older google chrome cast with TV - the ones that look like a oversized nurses watch) that sit behind your TV and can be solely powered by the TV.
No visible cables, no visible anything, install Android apps to your heart"s content, disable google play services and telemetry, use Fdroid, install game emulator, video conferencing software (they have USB pass thru) etc.
They don’t make those particular Chromecasts any more (newer model is basically same form factor as NVIDIA shield), but there were and probably still are similar “plug into TV and forget it” sticks, like CM4 in HDMI enclosure.
TL;DR: I’m for having stuff perinstalled too…but not if manufacturer can change how it works after point of sale. If that’s the play, I’d rather roll my own. YMMV.