Devices for Your Goals Smart TVs & Media Streaming Devices
What It Is
If your goal is to watch TV and/or stream media content using your voice, smart TVs and media streaming devices that can pair with your smart speaker or that come with a voice assistant are a great option. Smart TVs connect to your Wi-Fi and can support a number of apps, and smart streaming devices usually come in the form of a USB plug-in device that connects to your TV and to Wi-Fi and may include a remote as well. Most TVs these days are smart TVs – so you may already have one in your home!
The apps, streaming services, and controls differ with each device, so be sure to research which device will support your goals.
How It Helps
A smart TV and/or media streaming device may make it possible to control your TV and access entertainment using your voice. Here are some examples of what you may be able to do:
- Stream TV shows, movies, and other media using a variety of streaming services, such as Netflix or Hulu, using your voice (via the device itself or by pairing with a smart speaker) or the remote.
- Control your TV, cable, and satellite by voice – power on and off, change channels, and adjust the volume with your smart speaker.
- View visitors from your smart doorbell or camera on your TV screen using your voice.
Some streaming devices have smart speaker features built in, with a voice assistant and ability to control other smart devices.
Success Stories
Michael uses a smart speaker, a smart media streaming device, a smart TV, and smart switches to make phone calls and control everything from his lights to his TV.
Read More About Michael’s Smart Home
Suria integrates numerous smart devices for independence, safety, and convenience at home.
Read More About Suria’s Smart HomeChoosing Your Device
Choosing the right device for you depends on many factors, including:
- What you want to do with the device
- How you want to do it
- Your accessibility needs
- The layout of your home
- Your internet connection
- What devices you would like to integrate together
Use our self-assessment to review your unique situation and needs, then read our top tips on how to choose your smart home technology.
Product Reviews
Once you have a good idea of what you want and need, research which products can help. Reviews can be very useful to understand each product’s strengths and limitations.
Below are some of our favorite review websites. Many of them have “best of” lists for smart devices, as well as in-depth reviews of specific products. Try performing a search online using the name of the website plus the device type and the year. For example: Wirecutter best smart media streamer 2021.
Know what device you want but not sure how to fund it? Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) can help.
Learn About Funding