How to convert LED TV to SMART TV

With companies releasing new smart TV models into the market every day, most of us get tempted to get rid of our LED TVs and go for them. However, did you know that you can convert your LED TV into a smart TV?

Technology is very dynamic. With a lot of content offered exclusively through online streaming services, a smart TV is a nice-to-have gadget. TVs are continuously improved every day to give you a personalized and improved experience. But, what if you lack the budget to keep up with this fast-changing technology landscape? Worry not, for I will walk you through a step by step on how you can make your LED TV smart.

To convert your LED TV into a Smart TV, you need a streaming service device, HDMI cable and a stable Wi-Fi connection.

There are several smart TV alternatives in the market you can pick from. If you mostly use Apple devices such as a Macbook or iPhone, then the Apple TV box will give you a seamless experience. Do you stream content on Amazon Prime Video or Netflix? The Amazon Fire Stick would serve you better. 

 I will demonstrate using Amazon Fire Stick and Apple TV as they are popular and simpler to set up.

Apple TV Box Method

Steps

1. Locate your TV’s HDMI port. It’s normally found at the back of your TV and there are two (HDMI 1 and HDMI 2). Take note of the HDMI port number labeled next to the HDMI port. It is important because you’ll need it when ordering for your Apple TV.

2. Place the Apple TV box in the open and near your TV for the HDMI cable to be within the range of connection and the power source to be close. You want to be able to use the Apple TV remote without obstruction and prevent overheating of the box.

3. Connect the HDMI cable to the Apple TV box. Connect the Apple TV box using one end of the HDMI cable by sliding it into the HDMI port with the cable’s end facing up. Take the other end of the HDMI cable and connect it to the HDMI port at the back of your TV. Do not force entry, it might cause damage.

4. Connect your Apple TV box to the power source. Take the Apple TV’s power cable and plug the two-cylinder end into the back of the Apple TV and the other side into a power source. Switch on your TV and the Apple TV box by pressing the power buttons.

5. Change the input on the TV to HDMI. On most TVs, you’ll have to press the Input button until the targeted HDMI port is highlighted and select it by pressing OK/Enter. The TV should display the Apple TV’s setup page.

If it doesn’t display the setup page, you should press the Apple TV’s center button on the remote to start it.

6. Follow the setup instructions on the screen. This will usually enable you to:

• Select your language
• Set up your Wi-Fi network
• Install any updates

You’re good to go. You can use the Apple TV remote to select apps and switch between them. Enjoy!

Amazon Fire TV Stick Method

Steps

1. Locate your TV’s HDMI port. It’s normally found at the back of your TV and there are two (HDMI 1 and 2). Take note of the HDMI port number which is labeled next to the HDMI port. This is important because you’ll need it when ordering for your Apple TV.

This set comes with a Fire TV stick, power adapter brick, and a USB cable.

2. The Fire TV stick is one-sided and only meant to fit the TV’s HDMI port. Plug it into your Tv’s HDMI port.

3. Plug the USB cable into the power adapter brick’s USB port provided. Connect the Fire Stick to power by plugging one end of the power cable into a socket and the other end on to the side of the Fire Stick.

4. If your TV is off, switch it on and change the TV’s input to HDMI. Press the Input button until you highlight the HDMI input, then select it by pressing OK/Enter using the TV’s remote.

5. On the Fire Stick remote, press the Play/Pause button to pair the remote with your Fire Stick TV.

6. Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password to proceed to the Fire Stick installation. If it’s your first time setting up, the updates to be installed can take a few minutes to finish.

7. Sign in to your Amazon account on the prompt by entering your Amazon account login credentials. This enables you to view and keep track of your purchases and subscriptions.

8. For an Amazon Prime member, your Fire Stick TV comes registered with your account. All you need is to plug your Stick into the HDMI port and you’re ready to go.

You can now access all the offerings of a smart TV.

WIth a converted LED TV, you get the same viewing experience without having to get rid of your LED TV and save.

FAQs

Can I still make my LED TV smart if my HDMI port is spoilt or missing?

Yes. All you need to do is buy an HDMI-to-RCA adapter and plug it into those yellow, white, and red ports found at the back of your TV.

Is Youtube available on Apple TV? 

Yes. You will need to download it from the App Store.