When you connect a new device to a ‘smart’ tv, you must pay homage to the manufacturer with a ritualistic dance. Plugging and unplugging the device. Turning them on and off in the correct sequence like entering a konami code.

Every time you want to switch devices, the tv must scan for them. And god forbid you lose power, or unplug something. You are granted the delight experience of doing it all over again.

I have fond memories of the days of just plugging something in, and pressing the input button. Instant gratification. It was a simpler time.

What is some other tech that used to be better?

  • @Persen
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    14 months ago

    My grandma’s Phillips CRT TV input switching works the same way with all hardware.

    • @Aux
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      24 months ago

      No, it doesn’t. Re-read the comment.

      • @Persen
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        4 months ago

        It auto switches inputs to the last powered on device. What did I read wrong?

        Edit: Do you mean it also turns the TV on automatically? Wow, so like Toshiba’s “REGZA Link” or something?

        • @Aux
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          14 months ago

          Yeah, like REGZA, but it is now part of the HDMI standard, so there’s no vendor lock.

          • @Persen
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            -14 months ago

            I think there isn’t a vendor lock in REGZA. From my experience, it works with a chromecast.

            • @Aux
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              24 months ago

              Chromecast requires HDMI.

              • @Persen
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                04 months ago

                Yes, Toshiba TVs support hdmi.

                • @Aux
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                  24 months ago

                  You were talking about CRT TVs, these don’t support HDMI.

                  • @Persen
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                    04 months ago

                    That’s already a new topic.

    • prole
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      14 months ago

      Some of us remember the days of RF-adapters and old school A/B switches that definitely were not as straightforward as turning it on and switching the input.

      I guess that’s what I think of when I think of those days.