The idea of TV when I was growing up as a little kid was really simple; a big box that displayed motion pictures. At that time, analog Television was the standard and if you had a colored TV, you were the cool kids on the block. But now the TV has been forced to evolve with some inspiration from your smartphone.
Now there can be a confusion when buying a TV. Some uninitiated users might think all flat screen TVs are Smart TVs. This not necessarily true. While every Smart TV is a flat screen, the reverse is not true. But at least, every flat screen TV is a lot better than the older CRT tube TVs from the 90s and earlier.
Related post: A complete beginner’s guide to Flat screen and smart TVs
The ordinary smartphone user now knows that their mobile device runs an operating system which is either Android or iOS. The mobile operating system takes care of lots of things for us like controlling apps, connecting to the mobile network and to the internet, optimizing your battery, keeping your data secure among other things. Unlike in the old days, your smartphone capabilities can be extended via third-party apps downloaded from the various app stores.
The smartphone model has been extended to TVs. Old TV sets just like feature phones have limited capabilities that were tied to only what the manufacturer had designed into them. But with Smart TVs and lately digital media players, there’s a lot more your TV can do thanks to advanced operating systems that run them. Unlike smartphones with just two platforms, Smart TV OSes are many with almost each vendor creating one for their own products.
WebOS: TV OS for LG Smart TVs
Originally designed for smartphones by HP, WebOS or LG WebOS has evolved to become an operating system for “smart devices”. LG WebOS is popular for running LG’s smart TV such as E7 OLED 4K HDR Smart TV, LG SK9000, LG UK6300, LG E7P, LG C7.
WebOS 3.5 is currently the latest version of the operating system. It comes with a card UI, a colorful menu, animated Clippy-like character called Beanbird to aid the user through setup, beautiful and intuitive interface. WebOS Supports USB playback which plays any media files on your USB stick to the big screen, Miracast for sharing content from mobile and PC to the TV is also supported. A Picture viewer for viewing family photos is also included as well as an HTML5 browser for browsing the web.
WebOS also runs LG’s smart refrigerators, smart watch and smart projectors since 2017.
Tizen: OS that powers newer Samsung TVs and everything else
In 2007, Samsung launched an internet TV that enabled users to watch conventional TV along with the ability to stream content from the internet. Samsung Smart TV or Orsay OS ran the companies TVs until 2015 when it was replaced by Tizen. Tizen really is a 400 pound gorilla. It not only runs Samsung’s newer TVs, but also runs on tablets, in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) devices, smart cameras, smartwatches such as the Samsung Gear, Blu-ray players, smart home appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, ovens/microwaves and robotic vacuum cleaners.
Tizen integrates Internet and web features in TVs and set-top boxes and connects your TV to other devices like computers, smartphones and tablets. The new card UI akin to WebOS will help you navigate apps and settings on the TV. Samsung’s Allshare feature helps users to discover and connect devices such as PCs, TVs, mobile phones, tablets and digital cameras in the home network enabling them to share videos, music and pictures on the big screen.
Samsung Smart TVs can be controlled via voice commands and gestures. This is possible on specific models that ship with built-in camera and microphone. For instance you can Slap your hand to move to the next page or Pinch & Move to scroll.
Users can also download of applications from the Samsung Apps app store, in addition to existing services such as news, weather, stock market, YouTube videos, and movies.
Android TV
~ 9to5google
Following the embarrassing failure of Google TV, Google tweaked Android, its popular mobile operating system to run media players too such as set-top boxes and smart TVs. Android TV uses smart content discovery and recommendations along with vertical scrolling and a row-based interface to show content on the big screen.
Android TV is heavily integrated with Google ecosystem. It supports voice search via remote control, comes with Google Assistant integration, Knowledge Graph, native Google Chromecast support and thousands of additional apps and games can be downloaded from the Google Play store.
Big TV brand names such as Philips, Sharp, Sony now have some of their TVs powered by Android TV. Other vendors onboard include; Xiaomi (Mi Box), Asus, B&O, Bouygues Telecom (Bbox Miami), CCC Mobile (Air Stick), Free/Iliad (Freebox Mini 4K), LeEco (Super4 X Series), NVIDIA (Shield TV Console), Hyundai.
Roku TV
Designed for its famed streaming sticks, Roku TV or Roku OS provides over-the-top content in what it calls “channels” via the internet to millions of Roku-powered media devices. Roku streaming boxes or sticks come with Ethernet port and WiFi that users can connect to their home routers for internet access. The HDMI port on the Roku device can be used to connect the device directly to a compatible flat screen TV.
However, as of early 2014, Roku announced it was partnering with Chinese TV vendors TCL and Hisense to ship Smart TVs powered by Roku TV. These would receive regular updates just like its streaming devices.
You can also enjoy Private listening available through the Android app, iOS app, and the point remote and Live TV pause for Roku TV owners. Miracast support enables you to share content from your smartphone or PC to the big screen. The best thing is that your Roku device will constantly be updated with the latest Roku software.
Digital media player/Set-top box OSes
If you own a fairly modern TV that’s not running any of the above operating systems, you can still buy a digital media player or set-top box that runs an advanced TV platform and hook it up to your TV. This device will connect to your home network via Ethernet or WiFi or directly to your TV via HDMI and stream digital media like music, photos and video. This can come from either your local library like NAS drive or home media streaming server or from the streaming service providers on the internet like Youtube, Netflix, Hulu, Showmax.
Smart TV platform for Africa
A note for our readers in Uganda and other African countries where data is still extremely expensive. A Smart TV is predominantly designed to connect to the internet to stream content. This has two implications for you; increased data bill and monthly subscription fees to streaming providers like Netflix or Showmax.
Image: Unsplash
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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