Smart TV setup guide: Netflix, apps, casting and more
A smart TV is a television that is connected to the internet. You can watch Netflix, YouTube and catch-up TV right on your TV, without any extra boxes. In this guide you'll learn everything about setting up and using your smart TV.
What can you do with a smart TV?
- Streaming services: Netflix, Disney+, Videoland, Amazon Prime Video
- Free video: YouTube, NPO Start, RTL XL, Kijk
- Music: Spotify, YouTube Music
- Photos and videos: View your own media
- Casting: Send the picture from your phone to your TV
- Voice control: Control your TV with your voice
Connecting your smart TV to the internet
With Wi-Fi (wireless)
- Press the Settings button on your remote (gear icon)
- Go to Network or Connections
- Choose Wireless or Wi-Fi
- Select your Wi-Fi network from the list
- Enter your Wi-Fi password (this is tricky with the remote, so take your time)
- Wait until the connection is established
With a network cable (more stable, recommended)
- Connect a network cable between your TV and your router/modem
- The TV usually connects automatically
- No password needed
Advantage: A more stable connection, no buffering, faster speeds. Ideal if you watch a lot in 4K.
Installing apps on your smart TV
Finding the app store
Every TV manufacturer has its own system:
- Samsung: Smart Hub (Home button) → Apps
- LG: Home → LG Content Store
- Sony/Philips (Android TV): Home → Google Play Store
- Hisense: Home → App Store
Downloading apps
- Open your TV's app store
- Search for the app you want (e.g. "Netflix")
- Select the app
- Click Install or Download
- Wait until the download is finished
- The app appears in your menu
Setting up popular apps
Netflix
- Open the Netflix app
- Choose Sign In
- You'll see a code on the screen
- On your phone or computer, go to netflix.com/tv
- Enter the code: much easier than typing on the TV!
- Choose your profile and start watching
YouTube
- Open YouTube
- You can start watching right away without an account
- Want to sign in? Go to youtube.com/activate
- Enter the code that appears on your TV
NPO Start
- Download NPO Start from the app store
- You can watch without an account (with ads)
- Or create a free account for personalized suggestions
Videoland / Disney+ / Prime Video
Similar steps: open the app and sign in with a code on your phone/computer.
Connecting your phone to your TV
AirPlay (iPhone to smart TV)
Works with newer Samsung, LG and Sony TVs:
- Make sure your iPhone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network
- Open a video or photo on your iPhone
- Tap the AirPlay icon (rectangle with a small triangle)
- Choose your TV from the list
Chromecast (Android to smart TV)
Built into many smart TVs (Google TV, Android TV):
- Open an app that supports Cast (YouTube, Netflix, Spotify)
- Tap the Cast icon (rectangle with Wi-Fi waves)
- Choose your TV
- The video now plays on your TV
Screen mirroring
Show your entire phone screen on the TV:
- iPhone: Control Center → Screen Mirroring
- Samsung: Smart View (swipe down, tap Smart View)
- Other Android: Settings → Connected devices → Cast
Remote control tips
Basic navigation
- Arrow keys: Navigate through menus
- OK / Enter: Select
- Back: Go back one step
- Home: Back to the home screen
Shortcut buttons
Many remotes have dedicated buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, etc. One press and the app opens!
Voice control
Many smart TVs have voice control:
- Press the microphone button on the remote
- Say your command: "Open Netflix" or "Search for action movies"
Remote control app
Lost your remote? Download your TV brand's app:
- Samsung SmartThings
- LG ThinQ
- Sony TV SideView
Optimizing picture and sound
Choosing a picture mode
Go to Settings → Picture → Picture Mode:
- Standard/Normal: Best for everyday use
- Movie/Cinema: Best for movies in a dark room
- Dynamic/Vivid: Bright colors, less natural
- Sports: Faster motion, good for soccer
Improving the sound
- Turn on "Clear Voice" or "Dialogue Enhancement" for voices that are easier to understand
- Consider a soundbar if the built-in speakers are disappointing
Troubleshooting
An app won't start or freezes
- Close the app completely
- Restart the app
- Check for app updates
- Restart the TV (unplug it, wait 30 seconds)
Video buffers or stutters
- Check your internet speed (at least 5 Mbps for HD, 25 Mbps for 4K)
- Turn off other devices that use a lot of internet
- Use a network cable instead of Wi-Fi
- Move the router closer to the TV or use a Wi-Fi extender
No sound
- Check that the TV is not muted
- Check the audio output (TV speakers vs. external speakers)
- Restart the TV
Privacy settings
Smart TVs collect usage data. Limit this:
- Go to Settings → Privacy or Terms
- Turn off "Viewing information" collection or "ACR"
- Limit personalized ads
Enjoy all your favorite content on the big screen!
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