Have you wondered how the Smart TV application is changing the way we consume media? The days are gone when a Smart TV was simply another television. Today, Smart TVs serve as large entertainment centres and also pave the way for numerous other business opportunities.
In 2024, 62% of U.S. viewers streamed video on their smart TVs every week, representing a 15% increase over the previous three years.
As users shift away from traditional cable toward streaming app development, on-demand content, and interactive experiences, the demand for Smart TV app development has surged. This shift has opened doors for businesses to bid on engagement via Smart TV apps, acquire customers, and even drive sales.
In this blog, we will outline the key factors required to develop a successful Smart TV app.
- The platforms
- Must-have features & functions
- Costs associated with creating Smart TV apps
We will equip you with the knowledge to develop a successful Smart TV app.
What is Smart TV App Development?
Smart TV app development involves creating software applications that run on Smart TV platforms. It offers an interactive experience, allowing users to access a wide variety of content, including streaming platforms, games, social media, and news.
What are the Must-Have Features for a Successful Smart TV App?
When developing a Smart TV or custom OTT app, having the correct set of features defines the user experience. Below are key solutions and must-have functionalities to include:
1. Easy Registration
A smooth sign-up process encourages more users to get started quickly.
- Allow users to register with Google or email credentials.
- Enable limited access to browse content before logging in.
- Keep the process brief—limit it to name, email/phone, and password at most.
2. Search Functionality
Help users find what they want without frustration.
- Add a search bar with auto-suggestions and filters.
- Enable keyword-based results (titles, genres, product names).
- Keep results relevant and fast-loading for better engagement.
3. Smart Recommendations
Enhance content discovery by displaying users with what they’re most likely to enjoy.
- Track user behavior and watch/listen history.
- Use algorithms to suggest relevant shows, products, or lessons.
- Update suggestions regularly to reflect current preferences.
4. Continue Watching / Resume
Let users pick up exactly where they left off.
- Track progress across long videos or course chapters.
- Auto-save the last activity to resume instantly.
- Offer a “Continue Watching” or “Resume” section on the homepage.
5. In-App Information
Support users with accessible help and feature details.
- Add an FAQ or Help section within the App.
- Cover content categories, features, and common issues.
- Make support easy to access from the main menu.
6. Voice Search
Make searching easier using voice input, not just remote buttons.
- Integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, or built-in voice APIs.
- Enable voice-based queries for content, settings, and help.
- Improve accessibility for all age groups.
7. Fast UI
Speed is key—slow apps lose users quickly.
- Keep transitions and loading times minimal.
- Opt for a lightweight design for a seamless experience.
- Ensure responsiveness with every remote click or command.
8. Media Player Integration
For apps with any visual or audio content, a strong media player is essential.
- Support playback for videos, photos, and music.
- Include features like pause, rewind, and fast-forward.
- Offer HD and adaptive streaming options.
9. Share Function
Let users easily share their favorite content.
- Include options to share via QR code or mobile sync.
- Enable sharing on social or messaging apps if linked.
- Great for apps with videos, photos, or achievements.
10. Built-In Support
Provide a direct line for feedback or reporting problems.
- Add a “Report an Issue” or “Send Feedback” option
- Route requests to your support team in real-time
- Use this to identify and resolve bugs quickly
11. Seamless Remote Navigation
Users depend on remotes, so the App must work flawlessly with them.
- Match on-screen controls with remote buttons.
- Use directional navigation instead of swipe-based
- Keep actions predictable and button responses instant
Which feature do you think is most important for your Smart TV app—streaming quality, UI design, or smart recommendations? Let me know!
Also read: OTT App Development Company in US
The Ultimate Smart TV App Development Process
This section will help businesses understand ”What is the framework for TV app development?”.
1. Conduct Market Research
Before diving into development, it’s essential to understand the landscape. Start by evaluating your target region:
- How many households use smart TVs?
- Who are your key competitors?
- What operating systems are most common (Android, Tizen, etc.)?
- Are smart TVs gaining popularity, or are traditional TVs still the dominant choice?
This step ensures you build an app with demand and growth potential.
Netflix: A Benchmark Smart TV App
Netflix is a prime example of the successful use of Smart TV apps to expand its user base. With an easy-to-use UI on multiple Smart TV platforms (Android TV, Roku, Tizen, etc.), the platform has landed millions of users worldwide. Netflix has primarily focused on enhancing the areas of seamless streaming, personalized recommendations, and easy-to-navigate features on Smart TVs to improve user experience and engagement levels.
How This Works: Business owners can take a cue from Netflix and ensure that their apps are accessible across various platforms, feature a responsive user interface (UI), and utilize personalized content discovery to enhance customer retention.
2. Define Core Features & Functions
Every App has a specific goal—whether it’s entertainment, education, shopping, or something else. Based on your app type:
- List the must-have features for a smooth user experience
- Focus on elements that add value and give your App a competitive edge
- Prioritize user needs and simplicity over overloaded functionality
3. Choose the Right Operating System
Different regions prefer different platforms. The main ones include:
- Android TV – highly popular with broad device support
Case Study: Amazon Prime Video Benefits from User Engagement by Leveraging Amazon Fire TV. By offering an Amazon-built app with voice experience through Alexa and additional integration across other Amazon services, it became easier for users to stay “in the box” with the Amazon ecosystem, increasing engagement and subscriptions.
How It Can Work: For businesses developing Smart TV apps, ensure they can integrate seamlessly with commonly used platforms (such as Amazon Fire TV) while providing voice-driven interactions for users.
- Tizen – Samsung’s OS with a substantial market share
- WebOS – used by LG TVs
- Roku – simple and widespread in North America
Note: Roku is a popular platform among U.S. consumers, making it an excellent option for businesses seeking to reach a large audience of streaming fans.
Pick the platform based on what your audience uses, not just what’s trending.
4. Select a Development Partner
Not all app developers have experience with TV platforms. Look for a team that:
- Specializes in Smart TV app development
- Understands multi-platform integration (TV + mobile + web)
- Can handle everything from backend to frontend, if needed
A skilled company can save you time, money, and future headaches.
5. Focus on UI/UX Design
TV screens aren’t smartphones—designing for them is a different approach.
- Ask your custom software development team if they offer in-house UI/UX services.
- Ensure they understand remote-based navigation and big-screen layout
- Prioritize clarity, speed, and simplicity in the design flow
Having design and development handled by one team ensures a consistent product.
6. Test on Real Devices
Testing is where your App proves its quality.
- Run the App on various screen sizes and operating systems
- Check responsiveness, load speed, and compatibility
- Fix any bugs or UI glitches before going live
It is all about “How to create an app for smart TV. “ Once everything runs smoothly, move ahead with publishing it on your chosen platforms.
Cost Breakdown of Smart TV App Development
The cost of developing a Smart TV app depends on several factors, including the platform, app complexity, and the developer’s expertise.
Factors Influencing the Cost
- Platform Selection: Developing for multiple platforms increases costs due to the need for platform-specific adaptations and optimizations.
- App Complexity: More complex features (video streaming, multi-device synchronization, etc.) raise development costs.
- Developer Expertise: The experience and location of developers also impact the overall cost.
- Maintenance and Updates: Ongoing updates and bug fixes must be factored into the budget to ensure continuous system functionality.
Please read: Video Streaming App Development Companies in USA
How Businesses Can Optimize Costs
Businesses can save on development costs by:
- Developing cross-platform apps using tools like React Native or Flutter.
- Using existing frameworks and SDKs to reduce the need for custom software.
- Prioritizing essential features and adding advanced features in later updates.
Why Should You Hire a Professional Smart TV App Development Company?
Hiring OTT app development companies like Scalevista can streamline the process by reducing both time and costs. Scalevista helps businesses efficiently plan and manage live streaming app development or Smart TV app projects, ensuring that resources are optimized and timelines are met.
Learn — How we developed an OTT App
Why Businesses Should Consider Smart TV App Development
Some of the reasons to develop Samsung smart TV apps for your business are.
Audience Growth
The demand for smart TV apps is skyrocketing, and businesses have an opportunity to reach a broad audience. As more consumers move to streaming and on-demand content, smart TV apps are becoming a key method of engagement.
Revenue Opportunities
Monetizing your Smart TV app can be done through various channels, including subscriptions, in-app purchases, ads, and partnerships. These revenue streams can help businesses generate income while offering value to users.
Future-Proofing Your Business
Smart TV apps are not just a trend—they’re an integral part of the future of digital entertainment. By developing an app now, businesses can future-proof their offerings and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world.
Further read: Best HLS Streaming Encoders
Conclusion: The Future of Smart TV Apps for Businesses
Businesses that utilize this technology will be able to interact with customers in new ways, spur growth, and generate revenue as the demand for live streaming app development continues to increase.
Choosing the appropriate smart TV app developer or platform, adding essential functionality, and being aware of the related development expenses are all part of creating a Smart TV app.
With the right strategy, your company can leverage the potential of Smart TV apps to deliver users valuable experiences while maintaining a competitive edge over rivals.
With thoughtful planning and the right partner, your app could become the next big hub on living room televisions.
Ready to develop your Smart TV app? Contact our experts today for a free consultation and receive a tailored roadmap for success!”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to develop a Smart TV app?
Development typically takes 2 to 4 months for a basic app, but more complex apps with advanced features can take 6 months or longer to complete.
2. What is the cost range for developing a Smart TV app?
The cost of developing a smart TV app depends on several factors, including the platform, app complexity, and the developer’s expertise. Its price varies depending on the platform, complexity, and developer expertise.
3. How do I ensure my App is compatible across multiple Smart TV platforms?
Utilize cross-platform development tools (e.g., React Native), adhere to platform-specific guidelines, and conduct thorough testing on each device. Regular updates ensure ongoing compatibility.
4. Can I integrate existing content from my website into my Smart TV app?
Yes, through API integration or web views for static content and video streaming protocols like HLS for media. It keeps your app content up to date on your website.
5. Do Smart TVs Have Apps Built In?
Yes, smart TVs come with built-in apps by default. Most models include popular streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and Hulu pre-installed. These TVs run on platforms such as Android TV, Tizen, webOS, or Roku, which offer access to an app store where you can download additional apps tailored to your preferences.