Not so simple anymore: The smart TV revolution meets its match

Have you ever stared at your television remote, wondering why it seems to have more buttons than your old phone ever did? Or maybe you’ve accidentally opened a streaming app you didn’t even know you had while just trying to turn up the volume. If so, you’re not alone. The rise of ‘smart’ TVs has brought endless entertainment into homes—but for many, it’s also brought plenty of confusion.

Let’s be honest—televisions aren’t what they used to be. Gone are the days when you simply pressed the red button and flicked through a handful of channels.

Today’s TVs can connect to the internet, stream movies, make video calls and even respond to your voice. But with all these clever features, it’s easy to feel like the TV is running the show.

When ‘smart’ feels a bit too clever

Many Australians have shared similar frustrations with modern televisions. One recent buyer, for example, was thrilled with his new smart TV—until he realised he needed a tech-savvy neighbour to set it up and explain what all the mysterious buttons meant.

Stories like his are increasingly common. If you’ve ever had to call in the grandkids just to watch the news, you’re in good company.

This isn’t an isolated issue. Many Australians over 60 find that today’s technology—especially smart TVs—can be far more complicated than it needs to be. With small remotes, confusing menus and cryptic icons, it’s easy to see why so many people feel left behind by rapid changes in home entertainment.

A TV designed with seniors in mind

There’s some good news, though. Recognising that not everyone wants a TV that can order dinner and dim the lights, LG Electronics has introduced the Easy TV—a model built specifically for older adults who want simple features without the frustration.

Here’s what makes the Easy TV stand out:

• Bigger, brighter remote: The remote features buttons that are 27% larger, with 35% bigger labels and a brighter backlight—so no more squinting or guessing.
  
  
• Help at your fingertips: A dedicated Help button lets you return to your previous program or request assistance from family members through a ‘Buddy system.’ This connects via messaging apps so a loved one can help out from anywhere.
  
  
• Remote support: Family, friends or carers can adjust settings, change inputs or even start a video call using the TV’s built-in camera, all remotely.
  
  
• Emergency assistance: Pressing the Help button can send a quick alert message to a nominated contact.
  
  
• Accessibility features: Larger fonts, a simple home screen, and clearer audio make the TV easier to see, hear and navigate. There are even daily reminders for important tasks such as taking medication.

Why are TVs getting so complicated?

It’s a fair question. As technology has advanced, manufacturers have added more features to their products. While that works for some, others find it overwhelming.

According to LG, more than 70% of calls to their senior customer service line aren’t about faults—they’re about how to use the TV in the first place. That’s a strong signal that the tech industry needs to do more to make its products accessible to everyone.

What about privacy—are smart TVs watching you?

With all these new capabilities, it’s understandable to wonder whether your TV might be doing more watching than you think.

Many modern TVs include microphones, cameras and internet connectivity, which can raise privacy concerns. While these tools are designed to make life easier—like offering voice commands or video calls—it’s important to know how to control them.

Here are a few tips to protect your privacy:

• Check your settings: Most smart TVs allow you to turn off the microphone and camera. Look for privacy options in the menu.
  
  
• Keep your software updated: Regular updates help protect against security risks.
  
  
• Be cautious with apps: Only download apps from trusted sources and review their permissions.
  
  
• Read the manual: It might not be the most exciting read, but it’s worth knowing what your TV can do—and how to manage its features.

LG’s new Easy TV aims to make modern technology simpler and more accessible for older adults. Image Source: LG Electronics / DesignCompass.

The launch of the Easy TV is part of a broader shift towards technology that’s inclusive, not intimidating. As Australia’s population ages, more brands are designing products that meet the needs of older consumers—from straightforward smartphones to simpler home appliances.

For now, the Easy TV is only available in Korea, but LG plans to release it in other countries soon. If it proves popular, other manufacturers are likely to follow.

Key Takeaways

• Many older Australians find modern smart TVs overly complicated, with confusing menus, small buttons and complex setup processes that often require help from family members.
• LG Electronics has responded with the Easy TV, a simplified smart television created specifically for seniors who want easy-to-use features without unnecessary technology.
• The Easy TV includes larger buttons, brighter backlighting, a Help button for quick assistance or emergencies, and accessibility options such as bigger fonts, clear audio and simple navigation.
• While privacy concerns remain around smart TVs’ microphones, cameras and internet connectivity, users can manage their settings, update software regularly and install apps only from trusted sources.

Have you had a run-in with a ‘too smart’ television? Do you have tips for making the most of your TV—or tales of remotes with more buttons than sense? We’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences, advice or frustrations in the comments below and help others navigate the ever-changing world of home technology—one remote at a time.