- Movistar is ending support for its app on older smart TVs, impacting Samsung, LG, and Hisense models from before 2018.
- Users can check compatibility on Movistar's website and consider external devices like Chromecast to retain access.
- This move reflects a trend of planned obsolescence in the streaming industry, affecting TV renewal cycles.
The Movistar Plus+ app will cease to function on a range of smart TVs starting this April, according to an official announcement from the company. This move impacts users with older models that cannot support the technical updates required to maintain the platform's optimal experience. Movistar has updated its website with a detailed list of compatible devices, urging customers to verify if their equipment remains eligible for the service.
This news is critical for millions of users relying on Movistar Plus+ for entertainment, as they could lose access if they don't check their device compatibility.
This decision is not surprising in the context of the rapid technological evolution in the streaming and smart TV sector. On-demand content applications require constant improvements in security, performance, and features, often leaving behind hardware with processing or memory limitations. For Movistar, maintaining support on obsolete devices involves high operational costs and potential complaints about poor performance, a risk the company prefers to avoid.
List of Compatible and Affected Models
Based on information published by Movistar, Samsung TVs from 2016 onward will remain compatible with the Movistar Plus+ app. However, older models, specifically those from before 2018, will lose access to advanced features such as multi-channel audio, subtitles, UHD and Dolby content, and QR code identification. This means users with Samsung TVs from 2016 or 2017 can use the basic application but with reduced capabilities.
Planned obsolescence hits smart TVs: Movistar leaves older models behind in the race for innovation.
For LG televisions, compatibility also extends to models from 2016 onward, with similar restrictions: only devices from 2018 or later will enjoy all functionalities, including 4K content, multiple audio tracks and subtitles, and QR code access. In the case of Hisense, the app will remain available only on models running version 4.0 or higher of the VIDAA operating system, excluding equipment with earlier versions.
TVs with Google TV or Android TV from brands like Sony, Xiaomi, and Philips will maintain compatibility if they are from 2015 onward, provided they meet minimum system requirements. However, Movistar warns that some specific models might be excluded if they do not receive necessary firmware updates. The company recommends checking its official website for an updated list, as criteria may adjust over time.
Implications for Users and the Market
Movistar's decision reflects a broader trend in the digital entertainment industry: the planned obsolescence of connected devices. As streaming platforms intensify competition with services like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max, the pressure to deliver high-quality experiences leads companies to prioritize modern hardware. For users, this means investing in smart TVs does not guarantee perpetual access to all applications, especially after a few years.
Those affected by the end of support have several alternatives. They can opt for external devices like Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV, which typically receive updates for longer periods and are more affordable than replacing the entire television. Another option is accessing Movistar Plus+ through gaming consoles, computers, or smartphones, using casting features. However, this may not be ideal for those who prefer an integrated and straightforward experience.
From a market perspective, this move could boost sales of new TVs, benefiting manufacturers like Samsung and LG. According to industry data, the renewal cycle for smart TVs has shortened to approximately 5-7 years, partly due to software evolution. Analysts estimate that decisions like Movistar's could accelerate this cycle, especially in regions like Spain and Latin America, where streaming penetration is high.
Historical Context of Smart TV Compatibility
Application compatibility on smart TVs has been a constant challenge since the popularization of these devices in the early 2010s. Initially, manufacturers developed proprietary operating systems with limited support, resulting in fragmentation and update issues. With the arrival of standardized platforms like Android TV and webOS, the situation improved, but hardware diversity remains an obstacle.
In 2020, for example, Netflix stopped supporting some older smart TV models, citing similar security and performance reasons. This precedent set a pattern that other companies have followed, including Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video. Movistar's decision aligns with this trend, though it is notable for affecting a widely used service in Spanish-speaking countries, where Movistar has a significant subscriber base.
Technology experts note that the lack of standardization in the smart TV ecosystem contributes to these problems. Unlike smartphones, where Android and iOS dominate, the TV market is fragmented among multiple operating systems and versions, making it difficult for developers to maintain long-term compatibility. This underscores the importance of consumers considering not only screen quality when purchasing a TV but also its software update history.
Industry Reactions and User Tips
Manufacturers like Samsung and LG have responded to inquiries on the topic, highlighting that they offer continuous support for their newer models but acknowledge limitations on older devices due to hardware constraints. They recommend users regularly check firmware updates and consider upgrade options if their TV is over 5 years old.
For users concerned about losing access to Movistar Plus+, suggested steps include: first, visiting Movistar's help page to confirm if their specific model is on the compatible list. Second, exploring alternatives like external streaming devices, which typically cost between $30 and $100 and offer a refreshed experience. Third, contacting Movistar's customer service for possible temporary solutions, though the company has indicated there will be no exceptions for non-compatible models.
Long-term, this episode highlights the need for greater transparency in software support duration for electronic products. Some consumer advocates argue that manufacturers should clearly specify how many years of updates a TV will receive at the time of purchase, similar to what is done with smartphones. This would help users make informed decisions and reduce frustration over premature obsolescence.
The Future of Applications on Smart TVs
Looking ahead, we are likely to see more support discontinuations for streaming applications as technology advances. The adoption of formats like 8K, augmented reality, and integrated artificial intelligence will require more powerful hardware, leaving current TVs behind. Platforms like GLM could influence this landscape by offering AI solutions that optimize performance on limited devices, though their primary focus remains in other sectors.
For consumers, the key lesson is that purchasing a smart TV should be viewed as a medium-term investment, with realistic expectations about its software lifespan. Opting for brands with a good update history or supplementing with external devices can extend the equipment's usefulness. Meanwhile, Movistar and other companies will continue adjusting their strategies to balance innovation and accessibility in an increasingly competitive market.
“Markets are always looking at the future, not the present.”
— Hipertextual
— TrendRadar Editorial