Hisense TVs add unskippable startup ads before live TV
Hisense has reportedly begun showing unskippable ads when users power on certain TVs before they can access live TV, fueling broader frustration with how “smart” TVs have become ad and data-collection platforms. Commenters describe a pattern of manufacturers adding or escalating advertising and tracking after purchase, leaving consumers few options beyond blocking network access, rooting devices, or using external streaming boxes. Many see this as part of a wider trend of “enshittification,” where lower upfront prices are subsidized by invasive monetization, and call for voting with wallets or seeking “dumb” displays to regain control over their viewing experience.
Overall reaction to Hisense startup ads
- Many see unskippable startup ads as crossing a line and describe it as “theft of time” and part of broader “enshittification.”
- Some say this cements Hisense as a brand they will avoid; others argue similar behavior is now widespread across TV makers, including high-end sets.
- A minority accept it as a tradeoff for very low hardware prices (e.g., 100" TVs around $1,000), but even they note the user experience is “slopware.”
Smart TVs, enshittification, and lock-in
- Commenters describe a pattern: devices ship relatively clean, then manufacturers add ads and upsells via updates once users are locked in.
- It’s argued that imperfect information (hard to know ad load at purchase) and post-purchase changes mean the market isn’t a simple “people chose ads for lower prices” story.
- Some fear future TVs may require internet access even to use HDMI, or eventually use cellular modems to bypass home-network blocking.
Workarounds and technical countermeasures
- Common advice: never connect the TV to the internet; use external devices (Apple TV, Nvidia Shield, Linux HTPC, game consoles) for streaming.
- Others suggest:
- Using monitors or “commercial displays” instead of TVs.
- Network isolation: VLANs, DNS blocking, Pi-hole-style setups, firewalling vendor domains.
- Rooting TVs (e.g., some LG webOS models) and installing alternative apps/launchers, though newer models may have patched exploits.
- Tricks like connecting to a dummy Wi-Fi network, then disabling it, or physically removing antennas/modems.
Privacy, telemetry, and subscriptions
- Strong concern that TVs and cars alike are becoming telemetry and subscription platforms (heated seats, apps, data sales).
- Some report devices nudging or nagging users into enabling connectivity, telemetry, or “AI” features, and auto-installing apps.
- There is worry about data sharing with third parties (insurers, governments), and a sense that avoiding such tracking is becoming a luxury.
Broader reflections on advertising and media use
- Several call for stricter limits or even bans on advertising, arguing it has been abused.
- Others emphasize “voting with your wallet” by not buying smart TVs at all, downsizing, or abandoning TVs in favor of other activities.