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Streaming Shows On Your TV: 6 Helpful Tips And Tricks
For many people, the thought of streaming shows and movies on their TV conjures up images of wires and cables everywhere, but this is no longer an issue. A variety of devices exist that stream content to your television without the need for a computer. Streaming is a great way to watch shows and there are many ways to make the experience better.
From devices to apps, follow these helpful tips and tricks to turn your home into the media hub you’ve always wanted it to be.
1. Viewing Preference
If you have multiple people living in your house, you know how hard it can be to keep track of everyone’s viewing preferences. Instead of fighting or begging for control of the remote, try an app that allows for multiple profiles within the same household, which means everyone gets to watch what they want when they want it. Keep in mind that not every show is available with every streaming service. Figure out which service has the shows you want to watch, then see if they have an app.
2. Built-in Streaming Technology
You might have a smart TV that is already equipped with the technology necessary to stream content. If it isn’t compatible, you can always update your television’s software, or purchase a new one.
Some streaming companies make products with their own streaming technology built in. Having one of these can save you a lot of hassle since all you have to do is find out how to make a roku channel, for example, and you’re good to go! If you have a smart TV, make sure you check the options to see what services it’s compatible with.
Even if you have an older model that you’re not sure is compatible with anything, don’t give up. There are plenty of affordable options available that will allow you to stream and watch the shows and movies you love.
3. Quality Of The Stream
If you want crystal clear images each time you watch something, make sure your internet speed is fast enough to handle streaming data. If it isn’t, you’ll notice lag which will make the viewing experience unpleasant.
Wifi is another thing you’ll need to have a strong connection in order for streaming to work properly. If your tablet or smartphone has a good wifi signal, but the tv doesn’t there may be something wrong with the way your television receives its wifi signal from the router. Connecting issues can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from needing to utilize a different wifi channel to upgrading your router. Sometimes all it takes is moving your router and reconnecting devices to get things working again.
If your internet speed isn’t fast enough for streaming HD content, trying different apps could help you find something that works better. Some services offer different levels of quality in order to cater to everyone’s viewing preferences.
4. Better Performance
You may already know what you’re paying for when it comes to streaming services, but are you aware of all the features available? Many apps allow the ability to turn on or off subtitles. This can be immensely helpful if you’re hard of hearing.
Most apps allow for different profiles, but some also allow for different parental controls by movie or show. Reading the instructions for your streaming device or app isn’t the most exciting way to spend an evening, but it could save you a headache later. Having a better understanding of all the features offered will make using your streaming device a breeze.
While there are some shows that can’t be accessed outside of their streaming service’s app or website, many allow for offline viewing through download settings. Some apps allow you to watch as well as share and tweet about what you’re watching from right within the app that is already open on your device. If it doesn’t, be aware that many have this capability by going to their website and signing in from there.
5. Using Your Phone as a Remote
When there are multiple people in your household with easily accessible smartphones, use them as remotes to eliminate fighting for control of the remote. An added benefit is that you can switch between apps without having to switch devices.
Most streaming services have their own app that gives you the ability to control your viewing experience directly from your phone, allowing you to easily switch between apps without having to pick up another remote or navigate through the device’s user interface.
6. Social Media
To help with your viewing preferences, why not use social media to find new shows and movies based on what other people are watching. For example, both Pinterest and Reddit have some great boards that allow you to see at a glance what shows are trending in your area or that of others.
You can also connect with other watchers to share your experiences and ideas. You may even be able to find out through social media what the hype is about when it comes to shows that don’t have high ratings or haven’t caught on with mainstream audiences yet. The only way you’ll know if you like something is by trying it, right?
The online community also allows for discussion and sharing of reviews, information on future episodes, air dates, upcoming specials, and other tidbits to keep you in the know. Some streaming companies even have their own official accounts that you can follow on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. This way, if there’s a new show or film you want to watch but don’t know about yet, it’ll be right at your fingertips!
Today, streaming is a great way to watch shows and movies. There are ways to make the experience better, however. A fast internet connection, a good viewing app with plenty of features, good quality in streams, and being aware of your services’ capabilities are just some of these.
Online streaming services allow for viewing options that just weren’t possible on television before. No more fighting over the remote and no need to schedule around airtime. And they keep improving as time goes on, showing that there’s a lot to look forward to in the future. Whether watching new shows or old favorites, remember these tips and tricks the next time you’re streaming. Soon, you’ll wonder what you ever did without it!
