VIZIO SmartCast TV brings apps to the big screen

All-New VIZIO SmartCast TV(SM) Brings Apps to the Big Screen For Quick Access to TV Shows, Movies and Music

IRVINE, Calif. — VIZIO, Inc. announced today the rollout of VIZIO SmartCast TV to select models. SmartCast TV is the latest way for viewers to quickly access the content they love from popular apps right from the big screen with just a tap of the remote. An intuitive home screen greets viewers with content recommendations along with top apps such as Amazon Video, Crackle, Hulu, iHeartRadio, Netflix, Pluto TV, Vudu and XUMO1. VIZIO SmartCast TV provides users with another way to control the content they love and is rolling out now via an automatic internet update to eligible 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series and M-Series Ultra HD Displays. The update will roll out to additional series such as 2017 VIZIO SmartCast E-Series Ultra HD Displays later this summer.

VIZIO SmartCast TV users can browse new shows, music and movies – including titles in 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Vision™ HDR – and then launch content directly from their displays with the touch of a button on the new 2017 remote. The “Discover” section offers other exciting benefits of SmartCast TV. By aggregating popular and trending content from multiple sources all in one place, the section allows users to browse selections without toggling in and out of multiple apps and also makes it easy for consumers to discover hot, new offerings. Once they choose their content, consumers can not only control the selection through SmartCast TV, but with the VIZIO SmartCast MobileTM app as well, giving users two ways to control content and all settings on their VIZIO SmartCast displays.

To use SmartCast TV, some owners who previously purchased eligible displays may need the new VIZIO SmartCast remote, which features the V-button to provide one-button access to the VIZIO SmartCast TV user interface, along with shortcut keys to top apps. For a limited time and while supplies last, owners of eligible models can receive the new VIZIO SmartCast remote either free or for a nominal fee by visiting vizio.com/remote (some conditions apply).

“The introduction of VIZIO SmartCast TV is all about giving consumers additional options when it comes to accessing their favorite content,” said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. “We focused on developing a best-in-class smart platform for all users; from traditional TV fans who enjoy a dedicated remote control, to digital natives and second screen users who love using their mobile devices to search and control their viewing experience. 2017 is all about expanding SmartCast to give users multiple ways to stream the entertainment they love, the way they want it.”

While SmartCast TV brings apps to the big screen, the free VIZIO SmartCast Mobile app for iOS and Android™ transforms mobile devices into the ultimate touchscreen remote. The latest version of the app features a new navigational menu that allows users to easily browse SmartCast TV from their mobile device. Select SmartCast TV apps, such as Netflix, offer two ways to stream. SmartCast users can start a show using their remote via SmartCast TV, pause from any room in the house with SmartCast Mobile and even continue playback with their voice using Google Assistant on devices like Google Home. VIZIO SmartCast Mobile also lets users search for content across multiple apps at once, for even faster discovery and playback.

All VIZIO SmartCast displays feature Chromecast built-in, which allows viewers to browse thousands of Chromecast-enabled apps – including 4K and HDR content from apps like Netflix and Vudu – on their mobile devices. By simply tapping the Cast button in Chromecast-enabled apps, consumers can stream their favorite shows and movies right to the big screen. The Quick Start Mode allows VIZIO users to turn their displays on automatically by launching a Chromecast-enabled app and tapping the Cast button. The display will then power on and start streaming the selected entertainment.

1. The third party applications and content described herein may only be available in certain countries and languages, may require additional fees or subscription charges, and may be subject to future updates, modifications, interruption and/or discontinuation of service without notice, and VIZIO has no control over such content. 4K Ultra HD or HDR availability varies by application and may be subject to subscription fees, internet service, and device capabilities.