Samsung Smart TVs

Your Smart TV is no longer an Xbox. Neither is your phone, tablet or headset. Microsoft is shifting strategy, stepping back from the idea that every device can be an Xbox via cloud gaming. You have probably seen the 'This is an Xbox' messaging used to promote the Xbox app on platforms such as Smart TVs. You may also remember how Microsoft talked about reaching billions of gamers through cloud gaming via the Xbox app.

At CES 2026, TCL confirmed that the Xbox Game Pass app with cloud gaming is coming to Google TV later this year – at least to TCL Google TVs. The Xbox Game Pass app is already available on newer LG Smart TVs, Samsung Smart TVs and select Amazon Fire TV models as well as mobile devices and through web browsers. The app lets you stream the latest games directly to your TV over the internet using a wireless game controller – no physical Xbox console required.

After two months, Disney+ has finally rolled out a fix for the 4K HDR issues affecting the match frame rate and match dynamic range features on Apple TV 4K. FlatpanelsHD recently put a spotlight on the widespread streaming issues that have plagued Disney+ app on Apple TV, Nvidia Shield, Samsung Smart TVs and other platforms for months. The issues have mainly affected 4K HDR playback and seem to be tied to Disney's work on adding HDR10+ support – a launch that appears imminent.