Is Samsung TV An Android?(Not Really)+Important Points To Consider

Samsung TV is one of the most common household TV sets today because of its high performance. Lots of people want to own it but are confused about whether they can trust its operating system. I did lots of research to address this concern.

Is Samsung TV Android? Samsung TV is not an Android. Depending on when the company manufactured yours, its operating system is either Orsay or Tizen. However, you can connect external hardware via an HDMI cable to convert it to Android TV.

Samsung smartphones and tablets are Android. So, many people think the TV is Android Nonetheless, that’s not the case. Read on to understand Samsung TV much better and learn how to convert it to Android. Check out the list of the best Android TVs and Smart TVs on Amazon now!

What Is The Difference Between A Smart TV And An Android TV?

Smart TVs rely on the internet to provide more functions than standard television sets. We can liken it to a computer-integrated TV. Multiple built-in applications like Netflix and Facebook is another feature that sets it apart from the regular sets.

Nevertheless, most of these televisions have limited operating systems that you can’t upgrade.

The main features of smart television sets are:

  • User-friendly interface
  • No setup service needed
  • Relatively limited apps
  • Limited software updates

We need to see from the above points that Android TVs have many common features with smart TV sets. It comes with built-in apps and relies on the internet to offer more functionalities than its regular counterparts.

However, the most noticeable difference is that Android television sets connect to Google Play Store and download and update the inbuilt apps whenever necessary.

Another significant distinction is that these TVs typically have remote controls with microphones. In other words, they use Google Assistant, which allows users to ask questions hands-free.

Android TVs allow you to watch movies, games, and more on mobile screens. Additionally, it gives you the option to view your mobile devices’ content on big screens. What’s more, Android TV gives you a personalized viewing experience.

Key features that set apart Android TV from its rivals are:

  • Vast app library
  • Continuous app updates
  • Google Assistant
  • Connected with Google products Music and Google Play
  • More complex interface

So, which one is better, Samsung TV or Android TV? There is no straight answer to this question. It comes down to your needs and personal preferences. However, as we have seen, Android TV has more functionality that can interest you. So, before making a buying decision, you should evaluate your lifestyle and determine which one suits you.

Related Post: 5 Pros Of Android TV vs Smart TV(+Simple Difference Explained)

What Operating System Does Samsung TV Use?

Samsung TVs are highly efficient and allow users to access quality audio and videos since its operating system (OS) is designed with its users’ needs in mind. The manufacturer began incorporating Tizen OS in its television sets in 2015. So, older Samsung TVs use Orsay OS.

Tizen OS is known for giving users the best experience. It has enabled the company to improve its Smart Hub onscreen menu system’s aesthetic appeal and navigation.

If you require more setting options, you can use your remote control or the displayed interface.

Samsung uses Android OS in its mobile devices, including Note, Samsung Galaxy, Tablet, HTC, and LG. Nonetheless, they partner with their operating system company, Tizen, in their TV sets. Since Samsung does not pay an outside party for its OS maintenance, they produce affordable, top-notch TVs.

How Do I Know if My TV is Android?

You can use the following methods if you want to know if your TV uses the Android operating system:

  1. Access the Home Menu Screen:  On the remote control, press the Home button. The TV will display its Home Menu screen. You will see both the app’s shelf and the top shelf. Remember, this method is most suitable if you can differentiate between an Android TV Home Menu screen and other TVs.
  2. Check the TV’s Remote Control: Android TV’s remote control comes with mic icons or mic buttons. However, depending on the model and the region, some Android TVs lack these features. If you have the xxc Series, ensure you check on the Touch Remote Control.
  3. Consider the Specifications: Look at the specifications page to see whether ‘Android’ is listed in the Operating system field. If it is, you have an Android TV.

Which Smart TVs are Android?

Smart TVs run different types of operating systems. Read for a few key examples of OS that various smart televisions sets use:

  • LG TV -webOS
  • Panasonic TV -Firefox OS
  • Sony TVs -Android
  • Samsung –Tizen OS

Even though Android is the preferred choice for many smartphones, some companies use it to build smart televisions.

Android TVs are technically smart televisions, so they can also fall under the smart television category. Here are some of the leading brands that currently use this OS to build their television sets:

  • LG
  • Sony
  • NVIDIA
  • Philips
  • Sharp
  • Dish
  • Technicolor
  • Xiaomi
  • Asus

There are plenty of other brands that use this operating system. So, for example, you can find Sony Bravia, Toshiba, and RCA smart TVs on the market. They run on the Android OS.

If you are unsure whether a smart TV uses this operating system, you can use the three methods we have seen above to make the right decision.

Can I Install Android on Smart TV?

Owning a TV with the Android OS installed expands your television experience to access your favorite apps and connect a wide selection of your smart devices.

Even though Samsung uses a different OS, you can still enjoy these features from the TV set if you take the appropriate action.

To start with, Tizen provides several features similar to Android.

So, you can get a unique experience and unparalleled speed if you own any of these TVs. However, if you are determined to use Android, you can convert your smart TV to Android by following a few simple steps.

You don’t need to buy a new TV if you already have a smart television in simple terms. However, you cannot install the OS directly on your device. For more detailed information on how to do this, please proceed to the next section.

How Do I Convert Smart TV to Android TV?

To convert your smart TV to Android, you should add an Android television to it. I know this might sound a little complex. However, you only require a few minutes to follow some basic steps, and you are done.

Here is the quick guide to converting your Samsung smart TV to Android TV:

  1. Collect the Required Materials: This simple step may appear a no-brainer, but some people ignore it and end up with undesirable results. Before you get into the real work, ensure you have the following:
  • Android converter box
  • Smart TV with a functional HDMI port
  • HDMI cable
  • A remote (should be in the Android converter box)
  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Ethernet cable (Optional)
  1. Connect HDMI Cable to Your TV and then the Converter Box: Start by connecting the cable on the TV’s one end. Next, connect it to the converter box’s other end. By doing this, you will be able to use your new Android TV at high speed with 4-GB RAM.
  2. Connect the Smart Television to the Converter Box: Turn on your TV and connect using an Ethernet cable. This is the best option as it guarantees you the fastest connection. However, you can use Wi-Fi connectivity if it serves your needs.
  3. Sign in to your Android Account: Follow the instructions, and whenever you are prompted to sign in, feel free to so. Your results may vary depending on your Android version.
  4. Sync the Remote:

This step applies if you learn that your TV is not fully operational yet. You will almost always need to sync the remote before setting up your apps and Wi-Fi connectivity if you buy it separately.

Remember to read the remotes’ instructions as they can vary slightly.

That is all if you choose to use an Android converter box. You can use it any time to convert your smart TV to Android TV to see that the process is simple and requires no specialized expertise.

However, you still have an alternative. If you do not have the converter box or want to try another option, ensure you have the following:

  • HDMI cable
  • Android Smartphone
  • Smart TV with an HDMI cable

Use the HDMI cable to connect your smart TV with the phone. The rest of the processes are the same as the above. As always, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions strictly for the best experience.

Wrap Up

Samsung TV lets you enjoy watching, listening, and sharing video and audio content without installing an Android converter box.

The television currently comes fitted with Tizen OS, which is stylish and matches the TV set’s aesthetics.

Nonetheless, if you want to watch more on your mobile screens, access thousands of up-to-date apps with ease, or experience Android, you can still use an HDMI cable to convert it to Android TV.

This way, you can realize your desired goals without spending a lot of money or time.