Roku was hacked over the weekend. To keep yourself protected, I suggest changing your password ASAP!
The real reason TVs are so cheap: No more privacy
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a big-screen TV, you couldn’t be around at a better time. That’s because TVs are much cheaper today than just 10 years ago. Sadly, the luxury comes at a steep cost — especially if you value privacy.
Keep reading to find out why TVs are so affordable these days.
Here’s the backstory
In 2013, a 4K-capable widescreen display would cost upwards of $10,000. Now, those same TVs come with a host of bells, whistles and smart features, and you can buy top-of-the-line models for a fraction of the price. What gives?
Many believe the difference (aside from refining the manufacturing process itself) is big data and the enormous profit to be found therein. Is your TV spying on you? Yes, it is. Tap or click here for steps to stop the spying.
Information regarding your habits and the stuff you like to watch can all be used to compensate for the scant price tag you see on smart TVs. Over time, data-farming firms help manufacturers recover the costs they “missed out on” at check-out.
It just goes to show: The deal of the century will almost certainly come with some strings attached. Is it worth it? It depends.
Everybody from Roku to LG is capitalizing on this business, feeding that information into the revenue machine. Would your TikTok timeline be as engaging if your feed weren’t tailored to your interests?
Steps to protect against smart TV snooping
Some smart TVs come equipped with hidden cameras. Short of voiding the device’s warranty and removing it yourself, most people won’t be able to disable these embedded peripherals. If you’re hoping to minimize big data’s impact on your viewing experience, you could try any of the following:
- Look into privacy settings limiting the data your device sends back to the manufacturer.
- Opt into any “do not sell my information” services your TV offers.
- Disable voice control features, which might stop the device from analyzing conversations around it.
- Avoid “freemium” apps and channels, as these are usually funded by data collection.
Keep reading
10 tech company customer service phone numbers plus a secret way to know wait times
If the long wait times and hard-to-find numbers don’t make it clear enough, I’ll say it: Tech companies don’t want to talk to you.
Here’s a secret I bet you didn’t know. You can have Amazon call you if you have a problem with an order or anything else. Tap or click here for the secret spot on Amazon’s website.
Stream on
Turn that old TV into a streaming machine. Fear not — streaming boxes and sticks are easy to use. Just plug them into your TV’s HDMI port, which every TV after 2006 has.
- Solid choice for Android folks ($30): Google’s Chromecast is a breeze to set up and intuitive to use.
- Best value for 4K ($39): Roku Streaming Stick 4K.
- If you like using Alexa ($40): Prime members, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max works well, and you can control it with your voice.
- Just works with iPhones and Macs ($180): Is it pricey? Yeah, but Apple TV 4K is slick and syncs up with the rest of your Apple gear.
- Best bargain ($30): The Roku Express 4K is probably the best value and more than enough for most folks.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Did you hear the inventor of the remote died? They found him stuck in the couch. The new Google TV update included Find My Remote. Yup, that’s exactly what it sounds like. Simply press a button on your streaming device and the remote will beep for 30 seconds so you can find it. It’s already on some Roku and Walmart TVs.
Is 'oatzempic' a weight-loss miracle?
TikTok claims an oatmeal and lime smoothie can help you lose 20 pounds a month. Plus, there’s a major Roku hack, you can’t be anonymous on OpenTable and be careful what you click on X.
Roku strikes again: If you’ve got a TCL HDTV, you might’ve noticed something off after updating to Roku OS 13. Roku automatically turned on motion smoothing, and there’s no way to turn it off. It’s great for fast-moving sports games, but it makes movies look a little … too real. People are pissed. I’ll let you know when they have a fix.
Which platform is winning the streaming wars, with the largest share of viewers? Is it … A.) Prime Video, B.) Netflix, C.) Hulu or D.) YouTube?
Yes, your smart TV is spying on you - Here's how to stop it
Smart TVs are big money savers compared to other tech on the market. They include built-in apps that can save you from buying streaming devices like a Roku or Fire TV Stick.
As with any smart technology, there’s a price to be paid for the convenience. In return for an always-connected experience, smart TVs collect data on users — a lot of it. Tap or click here to listen to Kim’s Daily Tech Update about the smart TV dilemma.
Best places to find movies, books, audiobooks and music without spending a dime
Money is tight for everyone nowadays, and it’s nice to stretch your dollar as far as possible. You may have free perks from your cell provider that you don’t even know about. Here’s what you can get from Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile.
Is 'oatzempic' a weight-loss miracle?
TikTok claims an oatmeal and lime smoothie can help you lose 20 pounds a month. Plus, there’s a major Roku hack, you can’t be anonymous on OpenTable and be careful what you click on X.
Calling all night owls: Have an older Roku model and a house full of light sleepers? Upgrade to the Voice Remote Pro (on sale right now) and get Headphone mode. Plug in your headphones, and enjoy the full sound of your favorite show without waking anyone up. Sweet!
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Yes, your streaming device is tracking you
Ever wonder how your Roku, Fire Stick, or Apple TV seem to know who you are? I uncover the secrets of their prying eyes.
10 Roku app tricks to get the most out of your streaming services
When it comes to streaming services, you’re spoiled for choice: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu, Apple TV, and Disney+ are just some of the more popular ones.
Do you mostly watch network TV shows? Are you a big sports fan? If you answered yes to those questions, you might want to consider switching back to cable. It could even end up costing you less in the long run. Tap or click here for our report.
Too many cables and cords? Use this simple trick to tell them apart
People are constantly upgrading to the latest and greatest tech. Whether you have a new smartwatch or tablet, plenty of pro tips will help you become an expert.
I love helping Komando readers get the most out of their tech. Whether it’s helpful hints and special tricks or just helping you find the right tools, I’ve got you covered! Tap or click to browse my recent columns and tech tips.
Your TV is spying on you, but you can stop it
Fun fact: The first Compaq Portable computer shipped in 1983 and cost more than $8,400 in today’s dollars. Wow, times have changed.
Still, your computer is a significant investment, and you want it to perform well for years. Tap or click for my five-minute fix to speed up your PC.
Roku just released over a dozen new channels - Here's how to find them
Christmas is still a couple of weeks away, but Roku users just got an early present. You’ll get 13 new Roku channels to stream this holiday season. This tip will break down all the details, from where to watch to what’s available.
Hear your TV at whatever volume you want
Watching TV at home is supposed to be an easy stress reliever. But it’s hard to relax when your roommates or family tell you to turn it down. Sometimes, they make you turn it down so low you can barely hear anything.
These handy sites can help you find the streaming shows you’re looking for
Thanks to streaming, we’ve reached a point where we have too much of a good thing. You can watch just about any TV show or movie you can think of, from the latest Hollywood blockbusters to nostalgic cartoons of your youth.