this post was submitted on 05 Apr 2026
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Ignore me if I'm being stupid, but could you just not give it internet? A lot of TVs have high spec CPU/APU these days and complicated firmware, surely ability to update the firmware for these is necessary for patches/feature improvements. They probably think it's silly not to include software if they can, but I agree the software experience is often a bit of a let down. LGs been good, but admittedly I block all telemetry on my network so wouldn't notice any downsides.
you're right and that's what I do but I'd still buy a sceptre tv if they were sold outside of trumpia
People aren’t just objecting to the quality of the software, and even more than objecting to the relentless commercialization at every opportunity in the ‘smart’ features, they are rightfully worked up about the firehose of surveillance telemetry these devices are feeding back to the manufacturers.
Some definitely won't let you use them if they're not connected.
What models do not work without internet?
My roku/vizio made it seem impossible to proceed without a connection and account. The workarounds I found online vary by model. I caved to avoid a fight. Even after a later reset, I couldn't figure out how to bypass it. I tried disconnecting it from wifi through the tv but it kept forcing me to connect it again, or else it wouldn't proceed. However, I changed the wifi password later and it was surprisingly quiet about it. It constantly flashes the power light when on now, but a little tape keeps it in check.
Google TV models don't need Wi-Fi. They in fact have a "basic TV" mode.