Main points
- Updating your TV's firmware via an internet connection is an important first step to improving security and stability.
- Adjusting the picture, sound, and activating HDMI-CEC can significantly improve the Smart TV experience.
What to set up on a new TV first / Depositphotos
Buying a new Smart TV is always a pleasant and exciting event, but after unpacking it, it is important not to rush to turn on movies or games. A few simple actions at the start will help improve picture quality, stability and sound, as well as avoid problems in the future.
The initial setup of a modern TV takes only a few minutes, but the preparation does not end there. New models have many features and settings that can significantly affect the comfort of use. If you pay a little attention to them immediately after purchase, you can get a noticeably better viewing experience, explains BGR.
Firmware update – the first step
Connecting your TV to the internet isn't just necessary for streaming services or smart home features. It's also the main way to get the latest software updates.
Manufacturers release new firmware versions to fix bugs, improve security, format support, and application stability.
Often, the system offers to install updates during the initial setup or allows you to enable automatic updates. If you do not plan to connect the TV to the network, the firmware files can usually be downloaded from the manufacturer's website to a USB drive (up to 32 GB in exFAT or FAT32 format), and then run the installation via the appropriate port.
Image parameter correction
The interface of modern TVs offers various preset picture modes. For example, the Standard profile provides balanced brightness and contrast, while the “Cinema” or “Filmmaker Mode” modes are better suited for viewing in dark rooms. On the other hand, “Vivid” or “Dynamic” make the picture as bright as possible.
Most models also have fine-tuning options such as white balance, sharpness, or color tones. It’s best to test these during the time of day when the TV is most frequently used to account for the effects of daylight or lamps.
To check, you should enable a 4K demo on YouTube, HDR content in streaming, or launch a game console or Blu-ray player.
Activating HDMI Control
The modern HDMI standard allows for automation of equipment operation. Thanks to the HDMI-CEC function, the TV can automatically switch to the desired input when the user starts a console or media player. For gaming, this also means automatically enabling modes such as VRR or ALLM.
However, manufacturers often call this feature differently: for example, Samsung calls it Anynet+, and LG calls it Simplink. For CEC to work correctly, you need to enable the appropriate settings on all connected devices.
This technology also often interacts with HDR modes, allowing you to quickly switch, for example, to Dolby Vision when launching a streaming device.
Sound quality assessment
Built-in TV speakers rarely surprise with power or bass due to their compact size. At the start, it is worth checking whether the sound is satisfactory in everyday use. The menu usually offers different sound profiles – for movies, music, sports or dialogue reinforcement.
If the standard features are not enough, a soundbar is a simple solution. Even basic models can increase the volume and clarity of voices, while advanced systems can simulate full surround sound. An alternative is to connect an AV receiver with speakers.