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Techcrunch 19 October 2026

AI makes smart TVs 'dumb' again

AI makes smart TVs 'dumb' again

In a world where advertisements, tracking, and sluggishness undermine the user experience of smart televisions, more and more owners of these devices are deciding to take action. They are turning to AI-driven solutions to remove bloatware, allowing them to regain control over their TV experience. This trend is gaining popularity among consumers who have become frustrated by the unnecessary features of modern smart TVs.

The increased expectations of consumers regarding technology have made firmware and software on smart TVs more complex than ever before. This not only leads to an abundance of unwanted advertisements but also to intrusive tracking mechanisms that can endanger user privacy. By using AI, users can optimize their devices again and ensure a faster, more responsive interface without the clutter that typically comes with these devices.

The movement to make smart TVs 'dumb' points to a broader trend of users fighting back against technology that takes control away from them. Instead of conforming to default settings and unwanted features, consumers are choosing to implement their own tech solutions. These changes demonstrate that users desire more personalized and user-friendly experiences while ensuring their privacy is protected.

It is a response to rapidly changing technology, where more and more devices are equipped with the ability to connect to the internet, but also with large-scale data collection. The use of AI to combat the loss of control could signify a significant shift in the way users interact with their technology.

Read the full article from Techcrunch.