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Understanding Samsung Smart TV Apps and Where to Find Them

Samsung Smart TVs come with built-in app stores that let you add programs and services to your television. Unlike traditional TVs that only show cable or broadcast channels, Smart TVs function more like large tablets. They connect to your home internet and can run thousands of different applications. These apps range from entertainment services like Netflix and YouTube to news programs, gaming platforms, fitness channels, and educational content.

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The Samsung TV App Store is the official marketplace for finding programs designed specifically for Samsung televisions. This store comes pre-installed on most Samsung Smart TV models manufactured after 2015. The store contains both paid and no-cost options. Many popular services offer their applications at no cost, though some require a subscription to the service itself (such as Netflix or Disney+, which charge monthly fees separate from the app).

Samsung Smart TVs use different operating systems depending on their model year and series. Older models may run Samsung's Tizen operating system, while some newer models use Google TV. The specific steps for finding and obtaining apps can vary slightly based on which system your TV uses. However, the general process remains similar: navigate to the app store through your TV's main menu, search for the application you want, and select an option to install it on your TV.

One important distinction to understand: obtaining an app is different from subscribing to a service. For example, you can obtain the Hulu app at no cost. However, to actually watch content through Hulu, you would need a Hulu subscription, which costs money. The guide helps you understand this difference so you know what to expect.

Practical takeaway: Before searching for apps, check your TV's model number (usually found on the back or in the settings menu) and note which operating system it uses. This information helps you understand which apps may be available for your specific television.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Finding Apps on Your Samsung TV

The process of locating applications on a Samsung Smart TV begins at the home screen. When you turn on your TV, you should see the main menu with various icons and options. Look for an icon that resembles a grid, squares, or specifically says "Apps" or "App Store." This icon is typically located on the bottom or side of your home screen. On Tizen-based Samsung TVs, this is often called the "Smart Hub." On newer Google TV models, you may see it labeled differently.

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Once you open the app store section, you will see different categories and a search function. The search function is typically the fastest way to find a specific application. You can use your remote's arrow buttons to navigate to a search box, then use the on-screen keyboard to type the name of the app you want. If you're using a newer Samsung remote, some models have voice recognition built in—you can press the microphone button and speak the app name aloud.

After you've located the specific app you're looking for, select it to view the app's information page. This page shows details such as the app's description, user reviews from other TV owners, the file size, and importantly, whether it is free or costs money. The information page will also display a button or option related to obtaining the app. For free apps, this button typically says "Install," "Get," or something similar.

For apps that cost money, the button will show the price instead. Some apps may show different pricing tiers—for example, a free version with limited features and a paid premium version. Take time to read the information on the app's page to understand what you're obtaining. This prevents confusion later about why certain features may or may not be available.

The installation process itself is usually quick, taking anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes depending on the app's file size and your internet speed. During installation, your TV will show a progress indicator. You should not turn off your TV during this process. Once installation completes, the app will appear on your home screen or in your apps section, ready to use.

Practical takeaway: Familiarize yourself with your specific remote's layout and buttons now. Knowing where the arrow buttons, select button, and any voice command buttons are located makes navigating the app store much smoother.

Popular Free Apps Available for Samsung Smart TVs

Samsung Smart TVs have access to hundreds of applications, many of which are completely free to obtain and use. Understanding what's available helps you make informed decisions about which apps might interest you. This section describes some commonly used no-cost apps across different categories.

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In the entertainment category, apps like YouTube, Pluto TV, and Tubi offer free content. YouTube is the video-sharing platform where users upload everything from music videos to educational tutorials to full-length movies and TV shows. Pluto TV is a streaming service that offers channels organized by category, similar to traditional cable TV but entirely free. Tubi is another free streaming platform featuring movies and television shows. These apps are free to obtain and free to use, though they typically include advertisements.

For news and information, apps like BBC News, Reuters, and weather services are generally available at no cost. These apps let you watch news broadcasts, read articles, and check weather forecasts directly on your TV. Many news organizations maintain free apps because they generate revenue through advertisements shown within the app.

In the category of fitness and wellness, several apps offer free content. Some fitness apps provide free basic workouts or allow you to watch one or two free classes before requiring a subscription for additional content. Apps like YouTube also host countless free workout videos from fitness instructors.

Music and audio apps vary in their offerings. Spotify offers a free version (with ads) on some Samsung TVs, though premium features require a paid subscription. Other music services may follow similar models. Before obtaining an app, check its information page to see whether it's truly free to use or if it requires a subscription.

Gaming apps range from completely free casual games to games with in-app purchases. Some games are free but show advertisements. Others offer a limited free version with an option to pay for more content or features. The app's information page will describe the pricing structure.

Practical takeaway: Create a list of apps you're interested in before you begin searching. Spend time reading each app's description and user reviews to understand what content it offers and whether it requires a subscription or shows advertisements.

Understanding Subscriptions and In-App Payments

A common source of confusion involves the difference between obtaining an app and paying for a service. Many applications themselves are free to obtain, but the content within them requires a paid subscription. For example, Netflix is a free app to obtain from the Samsung App Store, but to actually watch movies and shows on Netflix, you need a Netflix subscription (which costs approximately $6.99 to $22.99 per month depending on the plan, as of 2024).

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When you open the information page for any app in the Samsung App Store, you will see clearly whether the app itself is free or costs money. If the app is free, it will say "Free" or show no price. If it costs money, it will display the price amount. This refers only to obtaining the app onto your TV—not to any services available within the app.

Some apps operate on a freemium model, meaning they are free to obtain and offer some content at no cost, but additional content or features require payment. For instance, some streaming services let you watch a limited number of shows or movies free but require a subscription to watch everything. The app's description should mention this.

In-app purchases are different from subscriptions. Some apps, particularly games, allow you to make one-time purchases of items, features, or content. For example, a game might be free to obtain and play, but you can spend money to buy virtual coins or unlock special levels. These purchases are optional and not required to use the app's basic features.

To make any purchase through a Samsung TV, you typically need to set up a payment method. This usually involves linking a credit card or debit card to your Samsung account, or using payment services like PayPal. You can manage these payment settings through your TV's settings menu under accounts or payments. Most Samsung TVs include options to require confirmation before any purchase, or even to disable in-app purchases entirely if you prefer.

For anyone concerned about unexpected charges, Samsung TVs allow you to set spending limits or disable purchases on specific user profiles. This is particularly useful if children use the TV. You can create a child profile with restricted purchasing ability while keeping your personal profile with full access.

Practical takeaway: Before