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Smart TVs vs. Commercial Grade Screens

Updated this week

You are welcome to try installing our application on a smart TV, but please note that we generally do not support them. Smart TVs are not designed for commercial use, and with so many different versions on the market, compatibility can be limited or unpredictable.

What is a smart TV (or residential TV)?

A smart TV is a consumer-grade screen purchased from a retailer for home use. Designed primarily for watching TV and streaming content, these TVs allow installation of popular streaming apps but are not built for continuous or demanding commercial environments.

What is a commercial grade screen (or digital signage screen)?

A commercial grade screen is specifically designed for digital signage and business applications. These displays are rugged, durable, and feature advanced functionalities such as locking the panel, automatic on / off scheduling, and support for digital signage software. They are built to withstand the demands of continuous operation in commercial settings.

Please note – commercial panels typically come with a warranty supporting their use in business environments (something that smart TVs do not provide).

How are smart TVs different?

  • Design purpose – smart TVs are built for residential use. Once installed in a commercial environment, their warranty is immediately voided.

  • Power on / off – they need to be manually turned on each day using the remote and require manual selection of the digital signage app. They cannot be scheduled to turn on or off automatically.

  • Usage hours – not designed to run more than 6-8 hours a day.

  • Orientation – cannot be installed in portrait mode.

  • Application support – limited to their app stores – they don’t support installing third-party digital signage apps like Fusion Signage. Often, they can't autoboot into an app, requiring manual startup daily.

  • Brightness and ruggedness – generally have lower brightness levels and lack the rugged build of commercial screens.

  • Durability – not designed to last under continuous or demanding commercial conditions.

Red flags when purchasing a screen for digital signage

  • Mentions TV or smart TV – these are unlikely to support third-party apps like Fusion Signage without an external media player.

  • Legs or stand – if the screen comes with legs, it’s likely intended for table use rather than wall mounting for signage.

  • Branding and software – if it claims to be a digital signage screen but promotes its own signage software (like MagicInfo or SuperSign), it probably doesn’t support third-party apps like Fusion Signage. Some screens may support both, so proceed with caution.

  • Explicit restrictions – some screens clearly state they do not support third-party app installations. If so, Fusion Signage won’t work on those screens.

Installing Fusion Signage

If your smart TV allows installation of our app (via APK or Google Play), you can use it for digital signage.

Handy hint – check our installation guides here to get started.

Fusion Signage reseller network

Please note that Fusion Signage does not provide direct hardware support. Instead, we work with a network of premium resellers and integrators who supply suitable commercial-grade hardware, handle installations, and offer ongoing support.

If you'd like us to connect you with a local business that can assist with your complete solution, feel free to reach out at support@fusionsignage.com.au.

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