Internet ready TV's: Is it just the VIA apps that you get or is it the full internet?
1658513
You will be able to interact with the Internet using just the apps available with the VIA suite. There is not a browser built in. Many of the new Blu-Ray players offer a similar way to connect to the Internet and use specific applications built for that particular supplier. So, if you don't have an Internet ready TV you can add the Internet capability by connecting a player.
250114
Google TV just offers an interface similar to Android. You can browse the internet (via Chrome, of course), download apps, and hopefully a lot more with each successive update. The app store is still fairly limited (especially 'free' apps), but there are definitely some nice ones out there if you're willing to pay. Also, if you have an Amazon Prime account, you can easily stream the 'rented' videos right on your TV (depending on your internet connection, as I noticed a fairly considerable drop in quality when streaming on the TV compared to streaming on my laptop and connecting via HDMI. YMMV). Some other nice benefits are being able to 'fling' webpages between your computer and TV, so you can do the browsing on the laptop and just fling to the TV when you found what you're looking for. You can also download the chromemote (sp) and use your laptop as a remote control for the TV. Overall I wouldn't break the bank to pay for Google TV, but it's a very nice addition if the prices/specs are comparable otherwise.
1301523
Absolutely! We watch Netflix and Youtube all the time - those apps are already installed when you get it
1793173
If you have wifi in your house, it is fairly easy to follow the setup and connect to your home network. The tv then has some apps that are ready to go (YouTube, Facebook, Skype, etc.). As I mentioned in a previous review, no browser so you can't just go to any website you want, only what the apps allow.
931538
Hi, On all of these TV boxes whether they are Android, Apple or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), there is an installed Plug in called XBMC where you can get most of the channels. Some of the channels are live channels. All you need is a good speed internet connection and all done. Cable, Satellite Dish or subscription to any service is not required.
1791140
Yes, it is; but super limited! restricted! Only Netflix, Youtube (not all videos), Hulu, and some apps. It is Wi-Fi or wired. Not the best. Try Boxee Box if you like internet tv; it is more flexible, but does not have surround system. It is just the box, internet super ready.
963266
No. This unit is Smart all by itself. I just happen to have both a SmartTV and this DVD player. You could hook it up to any TV and get all the apps as long as you connect it to the internet.
2062917
No, this TV has only certain apps from Yahoo. The is no Web Browser at all at this time.
2215824
We use Amazon video, Hulu, M-Go, and VuDu on a regular basis over wifi and have no problems at all. VuDu and M-Go are even in 1080 resolution. In fact I'm watching Hulu right now. There are other video services like Netflix, Crackle, YouTube, etc. too but we don't use them as often.
1015295
Yes it is definitely a smart tv. Has internet browser along with tons of apps.
58280
Yes you can surf the web. My only gripe about it though is that it's generally pretty slow-going. Turning the t.v. into a 55" computer is pretty cool but just don't expect the same performance as your p.c. or laptop. Every now and then I'll miss an episode of a show I like and I'll watch it on the t.v. via the t.v. network's site instead of my laptop.
2203257
I read the 2010 line of Samsung TV's (the "C" series) will allow more Ethernet and wireless capabilities: Connected TV and Samsung Apps With built-in Ethernet connection and wireless ready capabilities, the 2010 LCD TV lineup is ready to meet the growing consumer demand for "content without borders." The upgraded Internet@TV feature now includes Samsung Apps, providing consumers with an expanded, easy to navigate selection of content and applications from leading services like Accedo Broadband, AccuWeather.com, The Associated Press, Blockbuster, Fashion TV, Netflix, Picasa, Pandora, Rovi, Travel Channel, Twitter, USA TODAY, and Vudu. Applications can be downloaded and viewed all while watching TV. All of the premium LCD TVs 650 Series and above, will include the upgraded Internet@TV with Samsung Apps. Also included is DLNA compatibility for wireless connectivity and multimedia sharing across devices, allowing consumers to wirelessly transfer photos, movies and music from PCs, mobile phones and digital cameras to their TV for big screen enjoyment with friends and family. http://www.samsung.com/us/news/newsRead.do?news_seq=16475&gltype=localnews
575510
Currently there are only a few apps that have a cost for the actual "app" download ,but what the apps connect you to may or may not have a charge to view content. Many have a basic free service and also a premium upgrade you have to pay to get. Even some basic free apps are useful while watching TV, weather info at the time you want to see it is one good example. No need to go away from what you are watching to quickly check, and you can even hit a Vizio button to resize TV picture to fit with apps up on screen. Or, full screen app if you want also.
1772781
Absolutely not. You need a special app to access the internet. It used to have YouTube but no longer. Honestly I would get a different brand. I'm considering giving it away to one of my kids.
1587589
I don't think so. There is only a limited menu of options to choose from. Netfix, Hulu, Etc. It seems like they are adding options as the TV automatically gets upgraded. You can't just enter a URL.
617666
Nope, you won't need any extra equipment to access, Netflix, YouTube, etc. The apps are right on the screen and easy to use.
1827320
no sorry every thing I watch or with apps come in very sharp and clear my son set it up but did say if it look like its running slow or I see a lot of buffering to step up my internet to the next lev. so far so good... good luck I hope you in joy it as much as we do....