A smart TV device is either a television set with integrated Internet capabilities or a set-top box for television that offers more advanced computing ability and connectivity than a contemporary basic television set.

Smart TVs may be thought of as an information appliance or the computer system from a handheld computer integrated within a television set unit, as such a smart TV often allows the user to install and run more advanced applications or plugins/addons based on a specific platform.

Smart TVs run a complete operating system or mobile operating system software providing a platform for application developers.

Smart TVs deliver content (such as photos, movies and music) from other computers or network attached storage devices on a network using either a Digital Living Network Alliance/ Universal Plug and Play media server or similar service program like Windows Media Player or Network-attached storage (NAS), or via iTunes.

It also provides access to Internet-based services including traditional broadcast TV channels, catch-up services, video-on-demand (VOD), electronic program guide, interactive advertising, personalisation, voting, games, social networking, and other multimedia applications.

Smart TV technology and software is still evolving, with both proprietary and open source software frameworks already available. These can run applications (sometimes available via an 'app store' digital distribution platform), interactive on-demand media, personalized communications, and have social networking features.

There are many Smart TV platforms used for individual purposes. Smart TV owners desire the most successful platform possible for their Smart TV. For this reason, platforms are ranked from best to worst.

HbBTV, provided by the Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV association, CE-HTML, part of Web4CE, OIPF, part of HbbTV, and Tru2way are framework platforms managed by technology businesses.

There is also a security concerns that hackers may be able to remotely turn on the microphone or web-camera on a smart TV, being able to eavesdrop on private conversations.

A common loop antenna may be set for a bidirectional transmission channel, capable of uploading data rather than only receiving.

Internet websites can block smart TV access to content at will, or tailor the content that will be received by each platform