Why does Samsung use Tizen OS instead of Android on their Smart TVs?

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Samsung's Smart TVs use Tizen OS, not Android, for greater control, performance, a unified ecosystem, market differentiation, and reduced dependence on Google.

Tizen OS is the leading Smart TV platform globally. Samsung’s smart TVs run exclusively on Tizen OS and have not adopted Android.

why Samsung uses Tizen OS

According to a survey from Q3 2023, Tizen OS has a 35% market share of smart TVs. This shows Samsung’s dominance of smart TVs and Tizen OS’s presence in Samsung TVs.

Are you even aware of why Samsung’s Smart TVs use Tizen OS instead of Android? Recently I purchased a Samsung TV and want to discuss the differences with my Sony TV running on Android.

Why does Samsung use Tizen OS?

There are several reasons why Samsung uses Tizen OS instead of Android. Let’s discuss one by one.

Customization and Control

Samsung has more creative control over Tizen, which lets them customize the user experience.

The 2024 version of Tizen OS brings enhanced features and improvements to Samsung’s TV lineup, including QLED TVs, Neo QLED TVs (4K and 8K), OLED TVs, and Micro LED TVs.

With SmartThings Hub and Matter, Samsung’s updated AI-powered Tizen OS offers personalized content and better smart home device control.

Performance Optimization

Tizen OS is written mainly in C, C++, and HTML5, so it’s lightweight and customizable compared to Android.

I have a mid-range Sony TV running on Android OS and I know the pain of operating the laggy interface. After pressing the button on the remote, I have to wait 1-2 seconds for the action to take place.

But, an optimized Tizen OS for Samsung TVs delivers faster boot-up times, smoother navigation, and faster app launches.

Unified Ecosystem

Samsung uses Tizen OS on TVs, smartwatches, and home appliances. In this way, devices can easily integrate and interact with each other, offering seamless connectivity and compatibility.

Samsung’s vision of a connected ecosystem of devices like Apple’s is made possible by this integration.

With Samsung’s own platform, they can also build their own app ecosystem for Tizen, which will help them attract developers and reduce their reliance on third-party platforms.

Market Differentiation

Most Smart TV brands use Android in their TVs. By using Tizen, Samsung differentiates its products in the Android market.

People want a different taste, and Tizen’s unique features and interface cater to that.

Reduced Dependence on Google

Google reported that Android TV OS, which includes Google TV and Android TV devices, had over 150 million active devices as of early 2023.

On the other hand, Samsung’s Tizen-powered smart TVs are used by more than 190 million people in 197 countries.

By developing and using its own OS, Samsung reduces its dependence on Google and Android. It can help Samsung to deal with market changes and adjust contracts with Google.

Security

Samsung can implement and manage security protocols more effectively with the Tizen OS. It’s important for IoT devices that are connected to the internet for an extra layer of security.

Why does Samsung TV use Tizen?

Samsung TVs use Tizen because it’s an open-source, flexible, and efficient operating system that allows for a lot of customization, which is perfect for Samsung’s diverse TV lineup.

Is Tizen OS better than Android TV?

It’s not an easy answer. The choice between Tizen OS and Android TV depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

These are the reasons why Samsung uses Tizen OS instead of Android on Smart TVs. Samsung’s decision to use Tizen OS goes beyond offering a different operating system.

Both Android and Tizen have their advantages, Samsung’s focus on control and a connected future makes Tizen a smart choice for their Smart TVs.

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