Smart TV manufacturers vary in their software update policies

Smart TV owners have a valid concern when it comes to software support, as not all manufacturers offer long-term updates for their devices.

The lifespan of a smart TV is no longer just determined by its hardware, but also by its operating system and apps, which require regular updates to ensure optimal performance and security.

Unlike traditional TVs where the only worry was mechanical failure, modern smart TVs come with complex software that needs periodic maintenance, including patches to address potential security issues.

Researching a manufacturer's support policy can be a daunting task, as there is no standardized approach to software update durations among TV makers.

Samsung has set a precedent by committing to provide seven years of software updates for its Linux-based Tizen OS on 2024 and later models, as well as select 2023 models.

LG's webOS Re:New program has introduced a new standard for software support in smart TVs. Launched in early 2024, this initiative promises four years of webOS updates for TVs from 2022 onwards. However, there's a catch - these updates come with a one-year delay compared to the latest webOS release on the newest TV models.

This means that if a new version of webOS is released with the latest TVs in a given year, older models will have to wait until the following year to receive the update. For instance, when webOS 26 debuted with 2026's TVs, it took a year for this software to reach 2025 TV models.

Unlike LG, Sony doesn't offer fixed periods of support for its TVs. Instead, the duration of support varies depending on the model in question. Some Sony Bravia TVs have specific end-of-life dates listed on their support pages. For example, the Sony Bravia K-65XR80M2 OLED has an end-of-life date set at April 2029.

Sony's reliance on Google TV for its newer models and Android TV for older ones adds another layer of complexity to its software support strategy. In contrast to LG and Samsung, which use proprietary operating systems, Sony's TVs run on third-party platforms. This could potentially affect the speed and scope of software updates provided by the company.

TCL also doesn't guarantee fixed periods of support, instead claiming that it typically provides security updates for at least two years after a device model's initial shipment. While this may seem like a commitment to ongoing support, the company's language is deliberately vague - it doesn't explicitly mention TVs on its Software Security page.

Hisense's European dominance is largely due to its proprietary VIDAA OS, which powers the majority of its TVs on the continent. This operating system has a notable advantage when it comes to software support, with Hisense pledging to provide updates for up to eight years from 2025 onwards.

However, things are different in the US market, where many Hisense TVs run on third-party platforms such as Android TV, Fire TV, Google TV, or Roku TV. As a result, long-term support is ultimately at the mercy of these external operating systems and their respective manufacturers.

Roku's own line of Pro, Plus, and Select Series TVs offers an interesting case study in software support. While these models don't come with a fixed period of support from the company, it's worth noting that Roku prioritizes software updates and frequently pushes out new features to its devices.

The ultra-affordable TV brands, such as Vizio and Insignia, also offer their own operating systems, with Vizio OS being one notable example. This platform includes over 300 apps and receives regular automatic firmware updates from the manufacturer, but it's worth noting that Vizio does not guarantee a fixed period of support for any of its models.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding software support for these budget-friendly brands, their focus on providing a seamless viewing experience through regular updates is undeniable. This has led some users to rely on these TVs for extended periods, with some even reporting successful usage beyond the 10-year mark.

Insignia TVs run on Amazon's Fire OS, which means they will continue to receive software and security updates as long as Amazon supports its own devices. According to Amazon's website, the company commits to providing these updates for at least four years.

Buying a streaming box is an affordable option to extend the life of your Insignia TV and keep access to updated versions of popular apps, making it easy to continue enjoying a seamless viewing experience even after your model falls out of support.