Why let it ‘run’ on your network or the internet at all? I’ve never connected my newest TV to my WiFi, and can’t ever foresee a reason to do so. All of the apps I want are running on a connected box I trust to maintain a degree of privacy that I’d never assume from Sony, Samsung, or the like.
It’s not as if Netflix or Hulu actually force you to use the embedded TV apps.
I also don't allow my screens to have Internet access; did that the second time Samsung demanded I approve a firmware update before I was allowed to watch my TV show. Fuck that.
I say, tackle the problem when it gets here, for now I’ve never had a smart TV hooked up to the internet and it’s not even because I hate Smart features, I just don’t see a point, my 30$ Chromecast covers every use case I could have.
I would never connect it over WiFi for fear that it wouldn't forget the network. If someone has a smart TV that only supports WiFi, then I would suggest they setup a new WiFi network, temporarily connect the TV to perform the software update, and then disable the WiFi network.
When you want the IoT device to have Internet access, temporarily relax the restriction.
I did this because my TV is mounted on a wall with a large desk in front and its ethernet port is inaccessible.
However, it works best for images and text-- video or graphics tend to have more issues, and there is definitely a lot of lag, as with remote desktop.
This is slightly worse from a control perspective, but quality wise it is great.
2018: your TV needs internet access because updates
What the hell happened? This is ridiculous.
2018: defect in firmware found. New version deployed to internet connected devices and lifespan extended.
Both of those are made up scenarios, but I would argue that there are legitimate reasons for devices to be connected to the internet. Along with a bunch of terrible reasons, of course.
Right. Sure. The manufacturer will spend time and money to extend the life of devices already purchased.
I would prefer not take the chance, and see what happens. If the TV dies early, so be it.
There is a fix available - return it to the store.
2008: profits from TV sales are declining rapidly. Manufacturers are panicking.
2018: TV manufacturers partnered with some shady organization that pays them big bucks to install spyware into their Smart TVs.