If you’re ever looking for a way to experience a moment of leisure when at home, one of the safest, most instant options is to put the TV on. It’s certainly the case for me anyway; in between work or alongside a meal, I’m always looking for a source of entertainment that doesn’t include using my phone like a phantom limb. Catching up on my favourite shows seems a bit more wholesome and slower-paced than scrolling, and there’s something quite soothing about losing oneself in a re-run or watching a film.
Generally, I’d argue that the kettle is TV’s only rival for the spot of most grounding appliance of the modern home. And culturally, television might have won the battle. The TV is surely the most central, standout and immersive appliance in a sea of home life mundanity, and not to mention something most people actually like using (have you ever jumped for joy picking up a vacuum cleaner?).
It’s been with us since the late 1920s, with usage booming during the 50s. Britain went from in-home sets being a rarity to a whopping 75% of families owning a set by the 60s, with viewers soaking up news bulletins, politics, media and culture.
Even now, a TV is almost like an extra family member, continuing to pass us details of moments of global importance; the World Cup, general elections, the EastEnders’ Christmas episode (my personal yearly watershed). In my home, it’s always been a gateway to wider culture and entertainment. I’m thinking of endless summers spent developing my knowledge of classic films, and even a brief penchant for martial arts flicks during my mid-teens (don’t ask).
The right TV
One cannot overstate the role of a good TV in the home dynamic. So now enters a modern concern: how to pick the right TV. In a world where most of our digital devices are quirky hybrids of online directory, hi-tech camera and ultra-speed search engine, TVs have also upped their game and not just in sound and vision. They store your favourite shows, so you can restart them when you like, as well as giving intelligent recommendations – they’re smart. But what if they could also take calls, respond to your voice, and sometimes even talk back? Well, the smarter TV from Sky can.
Picking the best smart TV is an exercise in considering your needs against an overwhelming range on the market. So what factors should you be thinking about? Most people consider aspects such as ease of use, tech-and-hardware specs, availability of nifty features and whether what you’d usually watch is compatible with any inbuilt app systems.
The best smart TV will be one that likely combines features such as all your apps in one place for ease of access, prioritised by most TV fans. For example, the Sky Glass television is perfect for the age of streaming because it’s a device that comes with Sky’s services and live television inbuilt to save faffing around purchasing services separately.
Cutting-edge technology
The name of the game with your smart TV should be advancements (it is smart, after all). These types of models are designed to be cutting-edge, so certain features and hardware – 4K Ultra HD resolution, 360-degree Dolby Atmos sound, eye-catching colourways – can all be found with Sky Glass – a device that that’s smarter than the normal smart TV because it has automatic updates, meaning it’s built for the future. Plus, there’s ample warranty in case a jumping jack little one knocks it over (can’t be too careful).
Then there’s familiarity. Think about what you like to watch and the importance of certain channels, whether you have a preference for live TV or streaming etc. These will all help you decide what apps need to be able to work with your television when you buy a new model.
Keep the kids entertained
It makes sense to get a model that will fit around your lifestyle. If you have kids or a large family, the TV can be a useful tool in getting certain members distracted and allowing oneself the occasional bit of peace and quiet. A shiny television or quirky added feature can possess almost supernatural powers to grab attention if picked correctly. Best to go with a model where games can be played, or with a form of inbuilt arcade system that will definitely keep little hands busy. The Sky Live camera, that sits on top of your TV and is exclusive to Sky Glass, lets you video call, watch movies from different households and play a range of immersive games.
Carbon-conscious
We are also in the era of the climate-conscious TV user. Once an afterthought, I’m sure most of us at least slightly bristle leaving the little red standby light on. Sky has done a one-up; the Sky Glass is certified as “CarbonNeutral” rated by the CarbonNeutral Protocol, and the packaging is plastic-free and recyclable, so you can make steps to do your part around environmental impact.
Once you have your TV model, it’s a case of where to put it. Mounted maybe? Or freestanding, which can help it sit at the perfect eye level so you don’t crick your neck. Either way, I’d bet that Sky Glass will surely be one of the most entertaining gadgets in your home. And on that note … I’m off to watch EastEnders.
If you’re looking to upgrade to a new smarter than smart TV, check out Sky Glass here
