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Does a smart TV need an aerial?

Argos shoppers rush to buy 55-inch 4K smart TV that appears in basket so cheap they think it might be an error

THE fusion of old and new can be confusing at times, particularly with smart TVs.

Here's everything you need to know regarding whether you can use an old aerial with your sparkly new smart telly.

You don't need an aerial to watch apps like Netflix on your smart TV
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You don't need an aerial to watch apps like Netflix on your smart TVCredit: Alamy

Does a smart TV need an aerial?

Your smart TV uses internet.

Therefore you'll be able to access a lifetimes supply of shows and movies via your streaming apps, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer and more built in.

You don't require an aerial to watch these services.

Can you watch normal TV on a smart TV?

All that said, you cannot watch live TV via Freeview without an aerial in the UK. 

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If you want to watch live or local channels on a smart TV, you'll need to get a high-definition digital TV aerial antenna.

Or, you can download a free app or two from your TV's app store.

But remember: you will need a TV licence if you want to watch live channels or BBC iPlayer.

How do I connect my aerial to my smart TV?

  • Turn off your TV.
  • Locate the antenna input at the back of your TV.
  • Connect the coaxial cable from the antenna to the antenna input on your TV.
  • Switch on your TV and select the TV input.
  • Scan for Channels.

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