LG's recent software update has forcibly installed Microsoft Copilot, an AI assistant, on smart TVs without removal options, sparking widespread user backlash over privacy, bloatware, and loss of control. This highlights growing tensions in smart devices, where monetization often overrides user preferences.
Instead of getting some proprietary media device glued to a display, you could just put Kodi or similar on an HTPC. Use whatever display device you want. That way, you decide what the device does.
Have you tried to buy a non-smart TV recently?
I just picked one with a nice screen, didn’t connect it to wifi, and set it to turn on to the last used input. Bam. Dumb TV.