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You can try four built-in TV settings to make everyday use more convenient: start on the last-used input, choose Filmmaker Mode, connect Bluetooth audio, and enable HDMI-CEC. They do not cost anything to turn on, but their usefulness depends on how you use your TV and what it supports. The recommendations below come from a My Reels article published October 6, 2026; they are suggestions, not independently tested improvements.
1. Start the TV on your last-used input
If you usually watch through the same external streaming player or game console, setting the TV to reopen its last-used source can save you from navigating to that HDMI input each time. It is less useful if you mostly watch through the TV’s built-in apps or regularly switch sources.
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Look in your TV’s system or home-screen settings for an option such as “Power On Screen,” “Recent Input,” or “Last Used Input.” One LG menu path cited by My Reels is General > System > More Settings > Home Settings > Power On Screen. The article also gives an older Samsung path: All Settings > General & Privacy > Start Screen Options. These paths and labels are model- and firmware-dependent, not universal; consult your TV’s manual or search its settings if they do not match.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2. Try Filmmaker Mode for films and shows
Filmmaker Mode is intended to reduce picture processing that can change how films and shows are presented. If your TV offers it, select it as a picture mode when you want to try that approach to viewing. The source article also says some TVs can switch to the mode automatically for supported content, but availability and behavior were not verified for specific models. Treat it as a presentation preference, not a measured guarantee of better picture quality.
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3. Pair Bluetooth audio for private listening
A TV with Bluetooth audio support may let you pair compatible headphones, earbuds, or speakers, which can be useful for late-night listening. Check your model’s audio or Bluetooth settings and follow its pairing prompts; the menu and supported devices vary. My Reels names the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 as an example, not as a compatibility-tested recommendation.
4. Enable HDMI-CEC to coordinate connected devices
HDMI-CEC allows a TV and connected HDMI equipment to send certain control commands. Depending on the devices, an action such as turning on a console or streaming device may also turn on the TV or switch it to the device’s input. The source article gives a Fire TV Stick 4K Max and PlayStation 5 as examples, not as tested device combinations.
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Find HDMI-CEC in the TV’s settings and turn it on if you want to try it. Manufacturers may use a branded name: the article identifies Simplink on LG TVs and Anynet+ on Samsung TVs. The connected device may also need its own control setting enabled, and commands depend on support across the equipment. If a device does not trigger the expected action, check both devices’ settings and manuals rather than assuming every CEC function is supported.
Which settings are worth trying first?
- Use an external source most of the time: try last-used-input startup first.
- Want a different picture presentation for films: try Filmmaker Mode and decide whether you prefer its appearance.
- Need to listen privately: check Bluetooth support and pair a compatible audio device.
- Want connected equipment to control TV power or input switching: try HDMI-CEC on the TV and the connected device.
These settings may streamline particular routines, but the source article reports no measured change in picture, sound, speed, or usability. Menu names, feature availability, and results depend on the TV model, firmware, and connected equipment.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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- Seamless streaming: With fast Wi-Fi and apps that launch in a snap, Roku Select Series TVs get you to your entertainment quickly. You get excellent picture quality, clear sound, automatic updates, and more. It’s simple to use. Hard to outgrow.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
- A world of free entertainment: Enjoy a huge selection of free live TV, news, sports, movies, shows, and much more—all just a click away.
- More streaming, less searching: With personalized picks right on your Home Screen, quick access to the sports and entertainment you watch most, and fast and easy search in one place—the days of endless scrolling are over.
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Rank #3
- CRYSTAL PROCESSOR: Powerful processor enhances colors and sharpens details for a vibrant 4K viewing experience. Experience every shade of color as it was meant to be seen in dazzling 4K. Plus, make your movies, TV shows, games and sports look even better with powerful 4K upscaling.
- ENDLESS FREE CONTENT: Watch 2,700+ free streaming options, including 750+ subscription-free channels on Samsung TV Plus. Enjoy news, sports, movies, kids' shows and reality TV — all without a subscription. Discover endless entertainment with new content added regularly, tailored to your mood and interests.*
- MOTION XCELERATOR: Experience clear picture and smooth motion in games and sports. Enjoy smooth motion and clear visuals with technology that estimates and adjusts frame transitions in real time. Whether gaming or watching sports, enjoy up to 4K 60Hz performance that brings every play, move and scene to life with realistic clarity and motion.
- COLOR BOOSTER: Supercharge your color. From fiery reds to sparkling blues, make every color come to life with intensity. Color Booster transforms your content into a visual masterpiece.
- 4K UPSCALING: Upgrades what you watch to crisp 4K clarity. Upgrade your favorite shows, movies and more. Experience incredible details and clarity in every frame, even from lower-quality sources, with advanced upscaling technology.
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