If Smart TVs Are So Smart, Why Aren't We Using Their Builtin Apps?

When we review the best TVs, we pay attention to their operating systems and Smart TV features - for example, Samsung TVs have Tizen OS, LG TVs have WebOS, Sony TVs work with Google TV, etc. But more than half of you don't seem to care: instead you use dongles, power sticks and other devices.

A new survey of broadcast TV users aged 16 to 74 suggests that more than half of users use standalone media streaming devices rather than built-in apps. And I think I know why, because I do too.

One of the reasons is that it is not always available. Sony TVs that launched in the UK last year didn't offer much major streaming software, so if you want to watch those services you'll need another one. Another reason is that sometimes the built-in apps aren't great, the interface isn't right, or you can't customize it the way you want.

The main reason, though, is that the streaming device or set-top box - I currently use an Apple TV 4K, although I use and love Fire TV - is generally ad-free, scalable, consistent across services and tilted. Update regularly: So while I have programs like iPlayer on older TVs, they stopped working after the manufacturer decided not to update them, this hasn't happened to me with my streaming devices yet. My Apple TV just got a really nice software update and I don't expect it to dry up anytime soon.

There are other reasons. A big part of that for me is privacy: I trust Apple more than my TV manufacturer in my eyes. This is playing games for others, using Google Cast or AirPlay, using a specific personal digital assistant, supporting multiple family members, or using features like Apple Fitness+.

Last but not least, you can upgrade your TV to the latest and greatest streaming devices more than you can afford. The new Apple TV 4K starts at £149, Amazon's excellent Fire TV Stick 4K Max is now £54.99 and will no doubt be even cheaper on Black Friday.

I think using a TV without an external streaming device is like using a TV without an amplifier or AV receiver: the experience is good, but it could be much better. And many smart TV owners seem to feel the same way.