Some smart TV owners are using AI coding assistants to simplify their devices, removing unwanted apps, replacing crowded home screens and limiting features such as built-in advertising and viewing-data collection.
Projects including dumbtv and cleanyourtv offer ways to customize compatible televisions. Depending on the model, users can streamline the app launcher, focus the interface on their own apps and HDMI inputs, or disable selected pre-installed software. The projects are being tested across several Android TV and Google TV devices, as well as some Fire TV models.
More control, with care
AI tools can make device customization more approachable by helping users work through technical steps. That matters as many smart TVs use Automatic Content Recognition (ACR)--technology that can identify on-screen content and support viewing analytics or personalized advertising.
These modifications are still evolving, and results can vary between devices. Changing system components may affect how a TV works, so users should check compatibility and understand how to restore factory settings before proceeding. Existing launcher apps also offer a less involved way to personalize some Android-based TVs.
As AI lowers the barrier to tailoring connected devices, consumers may gain more influence over how their screens look and what data they share--encouraging manufacturers to make customization and privacy clearer parts of the smart TV experience.
