Find your TV apps and keep the picture running smoothly. These steps are designed to help you troubleshoot or compare options using your own compatible device and an authorised viewing service.
Get better results from TV apps, updates, connections and account sign-in. The steps below are written for people using a typical UK home connection, with no specialist equipment or advanced technical knowledge assumed.
Identify your Smart TV software
Smart TVs use different operating systems and app stores. Knowing your model and software version is more useful than knowing only the TV brand.
Open the settings or support menu to find device information and available software updates.
Use supported apps
Look for genuine streaming apps in the TV’s own app store. Not every service supports every Smart TV platform, especially older models.
When an app is unavailable, a compatible external streaming device may be an option, but check it against the service requirements first.
Improve responsiveness
Restart the television periodically, remove apps you no longer need and keep sufficient free storage where the manufacturer provides storage controls.
Weak Wi-Fi at the television can cause buffering even when a phone nearby appears to work.
Fix audio and picture problems
Check output resolution, TV picture mode, HDMI settings for connected devices and soundbar configuration. If lipsync problems appear in a single app, check whether the provider has a known issue.
For consistently poor playback, compare using another supported device on the same connection before buying replacement equipment.
Questions people also ask
Need help deciding the next step?
If you are still unsure, tell us what device you use and the result you are hoping for. We can discuss the key compatibility and service questions without requiring you to sign up for a product.
Continue learning
Explore our IPTV guide, device compatibility advice and other troubleshooting guides.