Developers use AI agents to modify smart TVs and strip out ads
What happened
On 20 October 2026, TechCrunch reported that some developers and users are using AI agents such as Claude Code to modify smart TVs, removing boot-up ads, tracking features and preinstalled apps, and replacing the TV home screen. The report did not mention how many people are involved, which brands or models are affected, or how well the modifications work. The practice remains a spontaneous effort by developers and users, with no further information on progress.
Written by AI from the reports · updated 19 h ago
Timeline
Follow the reports to see the event from each side.
- TechCrunch · AIPeople are using AI to make their smart TVs dumb again
Fed up with ads, tracking and sluggish interfaces, some smart TV owners are turning to AI agents to strip away bloatware and take back control of their TVs.
Heat of this event
Current heat 5·Peak in the comparable range 9（Oct 20 04:00）·Change over 24 hours in the comparable range –
The trend compares only the same accounts observed without a break, so its range can be narrower than the current heat count. Move the pointer or tap the chart to see each hour; with a keyboard, use the left and right arrow keys.