How to Download App in Samsung TV? Complete Guide

Samsung Smart TVs are loaded with robust features, with one of the most significant features being the capability to install applications within the inbuilt Smart Hub. Whether it is your first time installing your TV or your first encounter with new streaming and lifestyle applications, learning how to install app in Samsung TV is crucial to enjoying the full potential of your appliance. It includes a step-by-step guide to all the information you will want to know, including how to download app in Samsung TV, troubleshooting download problems, and locating an alternative to older Samsung TVs. 

Each section is created in a way that is easy to understand, convenient, and accessible to a novice.

Understanding App Installation on Samsung Smart TV

Samsung televisions operate on Tizen operating system, which supports Smart Hub – the main location where you can navigate, download and manage software. Imagine an app store by Samsung. It allows you to install entertainment apps (Netflix and YouTube), fitness apps, education apps, and even smart home apps. 

Samsung models can vary slightly in the screens or menu designs, however, the installation process is nearly the same across the Tizen-based TVs.

What You Need Before Downloading Apps

There are also some basic requirements that should be present before you can install apps without any hassles.

Internet Connection Requirements

Samsung Account Setup

Most applications force you to sign in using a Samsung account before installation. This account works to protect your purchases, customize your suggestions, and coordinate your settings across compatible Samsung devices. In case you do not have an account, you can create an account by: 

  • Settings/Account/ Sign In / Create Account. 
  • Or the official Samsung Web site.

After login, the app store on the TV will be fully accessible.

Supported Samsung TV Models

Tizen OS is used on a majority of Samsung televisions since 2015 and allows full app installation. Older models however might not support as many apps or an outdated interface so being aware of your model number can allow you to know which features you can access.

How to Download App in Samsung TV (Full Guide)

Once you know where to find it, it is easy to download applications on a Samsung TV. It can be done by going to the Smart Hub, finding an app, and installing it in the same way you do with a smartphone.

Accessing the Smart Hub

Turn on your TV and press the Home button on the Samsung Smart Remote. This will take you to the Smart Hub where all your applications and settings are found. The Smart Hub serves as the primary and the point of interaction to downloaded applications, system settings, and content selections.

Opening the Apps Section

When you enter the Smart Hub, use your remote to move left or right and choose the Apps icon. It is the official app store where all the apps compatible with Samsung Smart TVs can be found. Here, you will find suggestions and most popular applications, as well as different categories to peruse.

Searching for an App

Within the Apps menu, find the Search icon, which is typically located in the top-right corner of the display. By clicking this icon, you will be able to type the name of the desired app. The most popular applications such as Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Spotify, and Disney+ can be readily found as soon as you begin typing.

Installing the App

Tap on the search results to open the details page of the app. Here, you will learn about the app, the screenshots and the developer. To start installation, choose Install. Your internet speed will determine the amount of time taken to download it. Once it has been installed, you will be presented with the option to Open, Add to Home or Reinstall.

Launching and Managing the App

Once the app has been installed, it can be started at once by choosing Open. Alternatively, you may press the Home button once more and find the app in your home bar. You can add it to your home screen so that you can find it faster in the future.

how to download app in samsung tv

Installing Apps on Older Samsung TVs

Not all Samsung televisions have the same apps. Some TVs (mostly manufactured earlier than Tizen OS) can have a poor choice of apps or an outdated interface that receives updates no longer.

Understanding Compatibility Issues

The older Samsung TVs might not look like the Apps interface or may not run newer apps. In others, applications, such as Netflix or YouTube, might end up being unusable as they no longer receive updates. On older systems, the apps library is small and not extended with new releases.

What to Do If Your TV Doesn’t Support Certain Apps

In case your Samsung TV is not able to download some particular application, you can still get access to the material in different ways:

Using Streaming Devices

Casting and Screen Mirroring

You can cast your smartphone to your Samsung television with Smart View (Android) or AirPlay (iPhone, when supported) without the need to use external devices. This will enable you to see applications on your phone on the television screen.

Android TV Boxes

Android televisions offer access to Google Play store and extensive variety of applications. These boxes are used to connect to your television and are not dependent on the Samsung system.

How to Manage, Move, and Delete Apps on Samsung TVs

After downloading a few apps, you need to handle them so that the home screen will appear less cluttered.

Rearranging Apps for Easier Access

To relocate apps, select the app you want to relocate on the home page, press the down button on the remote, and choose Move. Drag the app to the desired position and confirm. This is useful when you have some apps that you use very often and would like to see them right away.

Removing Unwanted Apps

To delete unnecessary apps, go to: 

  • Home → Apps → Settings Select the desired app and tap Delete

But remember that not all pre-installed system applications are uninstallable as Samsung protects them to maintain system stability.

Keeping Apps Updated

Auto-Updates will ensure that your applications are updated with the new features and bug fixes. To activate this, go to: 

  • Apps → Settings → Auto Update → On 

These automatic updates are automatic and usually run when the TV is not in use.

Fixing App Download and Installation Problems

Although the process of installing apps on Samsung TVs is usually without complications, customers might experience issues with app appearance, download failures, or app crashes. The following are typical problems and solutions elaborated.

App Not Appearing in the App Store

A missing app on the search result can be caused by region restriction or a compatibility problem. Some apps might not be seen in your region as Samsung customizes its app store according to your country settings on the TV. In addition, new services might not work on older TVs as developers cease to support them.

Installation Errors and Failed Downloads

In the case of an app not installing, firstly ensure that you have the right internet connection using the network options on the TV. In case the connection is slow or unstable, restart your router. The app store can also be refreshed by logging out and back into your Samsung account. Also, make sure that there is ample internal memory by removing unnecessary applications.

Apps Crashing or Not Responding

Applications can crash when they are old, or when the TV software contains bugs that have not been fixed. The problem is usually resolved by updating the app and the TV software. In case the issue does not disappear, re-install the app or reset the Smart Hub by: Systems -> Support-> Device Care-> Self Diagnosis-> Reset Smart Hub.

Alternatives When Your TV Does Not Support New Apps

When your Samsung TV is unable to install some apps because of model restrictions, the most appropriate options are external streaming devices or casting capabilities. The latter usually provide superior performance, application selection, and constant upgrades. 

Streaming devices, including Fire TV Stick and Roku, even turn a ten-year-old Samsung television into a complete modern entertainment system. Moreover, there is mobile casting, which lets you cast applications that cannot be downloaded.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to download app in Samsung TV will open the door to the world of entertainment and productivity options. Be it streaming platforms, exercise apps, education tools, or otherwise, it is not that difficult when you can find out where to go. 

In case your TV model is limited, you can find a lot of other alternatives such as streaming sticks or casting devices that can boost your TV viewing experience without having to upgrade a TV.

FAQs About How to Download App in Samsung TV?

Do I need a Samsung account to download apps?

Yes, lots of apps need a Samsung account. It also guarantees the correct syncing of apps and profiles.

Why can’t I find specific apps on my Samsung TV?

This is often a matter of regional limitations or because your TV model is not compatible with the app. Older models are updated to fewer apps.

Can I install APK or third-party apps on Samsung TV?

No, Samsung Tizen OS does not allow Android APK file or external application.

How do I update apps on my Samsung TV?

Open the Apps section and go to Settings, and turn on the Auto Update.

Why do apps keep crashing?

This normally occurs because of old versions of apps, lack of storage, or old television firmware. The problem can be addressed by re-installing the application and updating the system.