Is your television too ‘smart’?
Modern appliances seem to be built to confuse us. Finally, a manufacturer is making things easier.
A few years ago, I was enjoying a beverage with a friend of my vintage who was telling me about his latest big purchase.
“I bought a smart TV,” he said. Then he added, a little sheepishly, “but it turns out that I’m not smart enough to use it.”
My friend had to ask a younger person from his neigbourhood to come over to connect the device to the internet and run him through its operation, including decoding the symbols on the remote control.
This is not an uncommon story. Many seniors have trouble understanding all the features of modern appliances and how to make them work.
The good news is that a South Korean manufacturer has come to the rescue with a simplified version of one of its popular televisions.
LG Electronics has launched the Easy TV, a smart TV specifically designed for older adults who struggle with the complexity of modern technology.
Available in 65-inch and 75-inch models, the Easy TV is based on the manufacturer’s QNED Evo series but features a redesigned interface and remote control tailored to senior users.
The remote is a standout feature: it has 27% larger buttons, 35% bigger labels, and a brighter backlight for improved visibility. It also includes a Help button that allows users to return to their previous program or request assistance from family members via a “Buddy system”, which integrates with messaging apps.
The feature enables remote support, allowing a family member, friend, or caregiver to adjust the settings, change inputs, or even initiate video calls through the TV’s built-in camera.
In emergencies, pressing the Help button sends an SOS-style message to a designated contact.
Beyond usability, the Easy TV offers accessibility through larger fonts, a simplified home screen, and enhanced audio for clearer dialogue. It even includes daily reminders for tasks such as taking medication.
The move reflects a broader trend in tech: designing products that accommodate ageing populations. With more than 70% of LG’s senior customer service inquiries related to operational difficulties, the company saw an opportunity to innovate.
While the Easy TV is priced higher than comparable models, it offers peace of mind and independence for seniors and their families.
The model is only available in Korea now, but there are plans to roll it out internationally. No doubt, as with all good ideas, other manufacturers will follow suit if and when it proves popular.
Related reading: The Verge, Chosun
