Influence of Streaming Apps on Smart TV Popularity

Let’s be real — these days, if your TV can’t run Netflix, you might as well be watching a brick wall. The rise of streaming apps has completely reshaped how we pick our smart TVs. It’s not just about screen size or resolution anymore; it’s about what apps your TV can actually handle.

I’ve been reviewing home entertainment tech for over 7 years, and one trend is crystal clear: streaming apps are now the #1 factor influencing smart TV purchases. According to a 2023 Parks Associates report, 89% of U.S. households with a smart TV use it primarily for streaming — way more than for cable or live TV.

Why? Because people want convenience. They don’t want extra boxes or dongles. They want to press one button and jump straight into their favorite show on streaming platforms.

Which Apps Matter Most?

Not all apps are created equal. Based on user engagement data from Statista and Consumer Reports, here are the top 5 must-have apps that influence TV buying decisions:

As you can see, Netflix and YouTube are practically standard. If a TV brand doesn’t support them out of the box, consumers walk away — fast.

The OS Factor: Why It’s a Big Deal

Your smart TV’s operating system is like its brain. And just like phones, some brains are better than others. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Android TV/Google TV – Huge app library, seamless Google integration. Found on Sony, TCL, and Philips.
• Tizen (Samsung) – Fast, sleek, but slightly limited outside major apps.
• webOS (LG) – User-friendly, great interface, but some users report slowdowns over time.
• Roku TV – Simple, reliable, excellent app support. A favorite for cord-cutters.

If you’re someone who loves niche services like Criterion Channel or Shudder, go for Android TV or Roku. They support way more indie apps than Tizen or webOS.

Performance & Updates Matter Too

It’s not enough to just have the apps — they need to run smoothly. A 2022 CNET study found that 41% of users ditched their smart TV platform due to slow load times or crashes.

Also, check how long the manufacturer provides software updates. Samsung now promises 7 years of updates for select models — a game-changer for longevity. LG? Not so much — most get only 3–4 years.

Bottom line: Don’t fall for a cheap TV with missing essential streaming apps. You’ll regret it when your show won’t load or the interface feels like dial-up.

So next time you’re shopping, ask: Does it have the apps I use daily? Is the OS smooth? Will it stay updated? Answer yes to all, and you’ve got a winner.