Sony smart TVs provide a world of entertainment and connectivity right on your TV screen. From streaming apps to live TV channels, Sony TVs make it easy to access all your favorite content. Here is a guide on how to add more apps and channels to further customize your Sony smart TV experience.
Table of Contents
Adding Apps
Adding apps expands what you can do on your Sony smart TV. Apps like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube allow you to stream movies, shows, and videos. Other apps provide games, music, news, sports, and more.
The process to add apps depends on if you have a Sony TV powered by Android TV/Google TV or a pre-Android smart TV.
For Android TV/Google TV Models:
Use the Google Play Store:
- Press the Home button and select the Google Play Store app
- Browse or search for apps
- Select an app and choose “Install”
- Sign in with your Google account if prompted
Use a Mobile Device:
- Install the app on your Android or iOS device
- On the app’s page, look for the “Send to TV” option
- Follow prompts to send the app to your Sony TV
For Pre-Android Smart TVs:
- Press the Home button and go to the Apps section
- Browse through the available apps (options will be limited compared to Android models)
- Select an app to download and install
Some apps may require signing in with an account or entering payment information. Also note that availability of apps can vary by region.
Adding Live TV Channels
Besides streaming apps, Sony TVs provide access to live TV channels through an HD antenna or cable/satellite set-top box. Here is how to set up channel access:
For Antenna Channels:
- During initial setup, select antenna for your signal input
- Go to Settings > Channels > Channel Setup
- Start the Auto Program scan to search for antenna channels
You can rerun the channel scan anytime to find newly available antenna channels. Adjust your antenna positioning if needed to improve reception.
For Cable or Satellite Channels:
- Connect a coaxial cable from the wall outlet to your TV
- If you have a set-top box, connect its HDMI output to an HDMI port on your TV
- During initial setup, select cable or satellite box input
- Turn on the set-top box and tune to channels normally
Refer to your set-top box user manual for detailed instructions. You can access the box’s channel guide directly on your Sony TV.
Customizing Your Sony TV Experience
Once you have apps and channels set up, Sony TVs provide additional features to customize your viewing:
Favorites:
- Mark favorite apps, channels, and inputs for quick access
- Add favorites to the home screen or input menu
Profiles:
- Set up personalized profiles for different users
- Each profile can have its own favorites, settings, recommendations, and watch history
Watchlist:
- Track movies and shows across different apps and channels
- Get notified when new episodes or recommendations are available
Smart Speakers:
- Link Sony TV with Alexa, Google Assistant for voice controls
- Use voice commands to search, play/pause, adjust volume, switch inputs, and more
Screen Mirroring:
- Cast your mobile device screen directly to your Sony TV
- Share videos, photos, presentations, and more from compatible devices
The flexibility of Sony smart TVs lets you create a custom entertainment hub tailored to your needs and preferences. With some setup and personalization, your Sony TV can become the central media device for your home.
