But not all smart TVs are created equally. And they can differ wildly in the actual streaming services they support — particularly with newcomers like Apple TV+ and Disney+.
With all of that in mind, here’s what you need to know about built-in streaming apps on Smart TVs.
How do Smart TVs support streaming services?
Smart TVs sport built-in streaming apps, so you can skip the stick or set-top box.
Most smart TVs allow users to stream content directly from a streaming service using a built-in app, without the need for a streaming stick or set-top box.
In some cases, Smart TVs may even allow you to enjoy 4K or HDR-enabled content without needing to buy a streaming device that supports it. (Your smart TV itself will need to support 4K and HDR, of course.)
Of course, the bandwidth requirements for streaming 4K and HDR content will be different than for regular content. So keep that in mind when you’re talking to your internet service provider next (ISP).
You may need a minimum speed of 5 Mbps to stream high-definition video. When it comes to ultra HD or 4K content, you’ll need to opt for a bandwidth of at least 25 Mbps.
The actual quality of your content will rely on other factors too, such as the time of day, whether you’re using a wired connection, and the make and model of your modem and router setup.
Which new Smart TVs support Apple’s TV+ app?
Apple TV+ is available on all Apple devices, as well as most other streaming platforms.
The revamped TV app is available across Apple’s devices, from the Apple TV set-top box to MacBooks in macOS Catalina. But, surprisingly, it’s also available on third-party platforms.
The TV app isn’t available on all smart TVs or streaming devices, but it is available on more than you might expect.
Here are some current TV manufacturers that have added Apple TV app support.
Several 2019 Sony Smart TVs, including the Z9G and A9G series.
A handful of 2019 LG Smart TVs also supports Apple TV.
VIZIO also has quite a few models that sport the TV app baked-in, including several in the 2019 P and M series.
What about Disney+?
Disney+ is also available on a number of smart TVs.
Disney+ is already a massively popular streaming service, even though it only just recently launched. So there’s a good chance that you already have it.
You can, of course, watch Disney+ on your tvOS or iOS devices, as well as most set-top boxes and game consoles. Currently, not many smart TV manufacturers support it — but that’s likely to change soon.
As of the writing of this article, only some LG, Vizio, and Samsung Smart TVs actually support the Disney+ app.
For LG TVs, Disney+ is supported on models using webOS 3.0 and above (2016 and later models.)
Vizio televisions allow you and your family to watch Disney+ on VIZIO SmartCast TVs using the built-in app Casting that’s part of the SmartCast Home Screen. You can also use the Apple AirPlay 2 feature on available models.
Disney+ is available right now on Samsung Smart TVs from 2016 to the current models.
If your TV manufacturer and model number are currently supported, try using the Disney+ app from a separate streaming device such as an Apple TV 4th generation+, and select models of Roku, Chromecast, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Firestick, Xbox One, or PS4.
Some smart TVs are also Roku TVs
Roku TVs, which are essentially smart TVs in their own right, are also widely available.
When it comes to the streaming market, Roku is a household name. Its streaming devices support Apple+ and Disney+, but it also offers its own Roku TV app.
The Roku TV app isn’t actually a streaming platform, but it does aggregate other streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and Apple TV+.
When you buy a Roku TV, it means that the manufacturer has worked with the company to bake its custom UI into the system. That way, you can actually stream content from Netflix or Apple TV+ without an additional set-top box.
TCL Smart TVs
Insignia Smart TVs
Sharp Smart TVs
Hisense Smart TVs
Hitachi Smart TVs
RCA Smart TVs
Philips Smart TVs
Element Smart TVs
JVC Smart TVs
Smart TVs that support digital assistants
Many smart TVs also support your favorite digital assistants, but the exact supported assistant will depend on the brand and model of the TV.
It’s worth noting that some smart TVs also support digital assistants. That means you’ll be able to control your smart TV with your digital assistant, and in most cases, invoke your assistant straight from the TV.
Whether or not your smart TV supports your favorite digital assistant comes down to which on you use and which brand of TV you’re looking at.
Siri
Want to control your smart TV using Siri from your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch? As long as you get a model with AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support, you can.
AirPlay 2 and HomeKit don’t have the market saturation of other smart home platforms, but they are currently available on a handful of popular TV brands.
Amazon Alexa is a market dominator when it comes to digital assistants and smart home products. So, as you might expect, the assistant is available on quite a few different smart TVs.
They range from Sony and Samsung smart TVs to other OEMs like TCL and Hisense. For a full list, you should check out Amazon’s specific webpage for Alexa support.
Google Assistant
Like Alexa, Google Assistant is also available on a handful of different TV manufacturers. Here’s an updated list of smart TVs that support the Google digital assistant.
Philips OLED
LG 2019 Smart TVs
Samsung 2019 Smart TVs
Sony Bravia Smart TVs
Sharp Aquos Smart TVs
Are you shopping for a new smart TV? Would you prefer to have a built-in digital voice assistant on the unit or would you rather have it in a connected gadget? We want to hear from you.
Affliate Disclosure: This article includes amazon affiliate links to a few products. We would make a small commission from Amazon if you decide to buy using the links in the article.
Mike is a freelance journalist from San Diego, California.
While he primarily covers Apple and consumer technology, he has past experience writing about public safety, local government, and education for a variety of publications.
He’s worn quite a few hats in the journalism field, including writer, editor, and news designer.
Help! I am trying to stream Apple TV. Here is my situation:
Roku stick 3810X
Samsung TV-It was made BEFORE 2018 so I assume I can’t stream directly to it. BUT since I have the Roku stick shouldn’t I be able to stream it through that?
When I tried to buy Apple TV through my ROKU stick I get as far as entering my APPLE ID & password. The dialogue box is too large and most of it is off screen. What am I doing wrong?
Sheila Patterson says
Help! I am trying to stream Apple TV. Here is my situation:
Roku stick 3810X
Samsung TV-It was made BEFORE 2018 so I assume I can’t stream directly to it. BUT since I have the Roku stick shouldn’t I be able to stream it through that?
When I tried to buy Apple TV through my ROKU stick I get as far as entering my APPLE ID & password. The dialogue box is too large and most of it is off screen. What am I doing wrong?