Guide: TVs with Best User Interface & Casting for Non-Techy Users

Okay, I've taken a look at the new Reddit discussion.

User Need Analysis: The user is clearly frustrated with the User Interface (UI) of their LG QLED TV. They mentioned, "the UI just doesn’t click with me, and screen sharing sucks." They're in the market for a new TV under $700 CAD for their first home and want to make the right purchase, indicating they value a good user experience beyond just picture quality. Other commenters share similar frustrations with specific brands (like Samsung) and recommend using external streaming devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV) for a better interface, suggesting that native smart TV UIs are often a pain point.

Product/Service Opportunity:

While the previous analysis correctly identified an information resource for TV selection based on UI/UX, this discussion highlights a complementary opportunity: improving the interaction with existing or new TVs, especially for users who find the native UIs cumbersome.

1. Product Suggestion: Simplified Universal Smart TV Remote with Programmable Hotkeys & Enhanced Casting Button

   • Description: A physical remote control designed with ergonomics and simplicity in mind. It would feature only essential buttons (power, volume, channel, input, D-pad, OK, back, home). Key features include:
     • A few programmable hotkeys that users can easily map to their most-used apps (e.g., Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video), regardless of the TV brand or if they are using an external streaming stick.
     • An "Easy Cast" or "Share Screen" button to simplify the screen sharing process. This button could initiate a guided setup on first use or attempt to connect to previously paired devices, making the often-clunky TV-specific casting menus easier to navigate.
     • High-quality, tactile buttons with good feedback.
     • Backlighting for ease of use in the dark.
     • Compatibility with major TV brands (LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL, Hisense) and popular streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV).
   • Why it addresses the need:
     • Directly tackles the "UI doesn't click with me" issue by offering a consistent, simplified physical interaction layer.
     • Aims to solve the "screen sharing sucks" problem with a dedicated, simplified initiation process.
     • Appeals to users who are overwhelmed by feature-packed OEM remotes or find navigating complex on-screen UIs frustrating.
     • Complements external streaming devices by offering unified control.

2. Expected Benefit:

   • Revenue Stream: Direct sales of the physical remote control unit.
   • Market: Users frustrated with overly complex smart TV interfaces, users wanting a single remote for their TV and streaming stick, older users, or anyone valuing simplicity and ease of use. This could also be bundled or marketed alongside the previously proposed information resource.
   • Addressing a Gap: While universal remotes exist, many are either too complex (e.g., Logitech Harmony) or too basic. This product would hit a sweet spot of smart simplicity, focusing specifically on alleviating common smart TV UI and casting pain points.
   • Brand Loyalty: Creating a beloved, user-friendly accessory can build significant brand loyalty in the consumer electronics space.

This remote would act as a tangible solution for the user's stated frustrations, offering a better day-to-day experience with their TV, regardless of the underlying (and often imperfect) smart OS.

Exporting the result: The user is frustrated with TV UIs (LG specifically) and screen sharing, seeking a user-friendly TV under $700 CAD. Commenters also highlight general dissatisfaction with native smart TV UIs and recommend external streaming devices for better interfaces.

Product Suggestion: A "Simplified Universal Smart TV Remote with Programmable Hotkeys & Enhanced Casting Button." This physical remote would feature essential buttons, programmable app hotkeys, and a dedicated "Easy Cast" button to simplify screen sharing. It would be designed for ergonomic comfort and ease of use, compatible with major TV brands and streaming devices.

Expected Benefit: Revenue from direct sales of the remote. This product would solve user pain points related to complex TV UIs and unreliable screen sharing, offering a more streamlined and pleasant interaction with their entertainment setup. It targets users seeking simplicity and a unified control experience.