I changed 13 settings on my TV to dramatically improve its performance - here's how

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• Quick settings changes can noticeably improve your smart TV experience.
• Basic maintenance keeps smart TVs fast and more secure.
• Privacy controls let you reduce data collection with minimal trade-offs.

TVs are no longer just displays that you connect to a cable box or streaming device to make them smarter.

Also: Got a TCL TV? Change these 16 settings ASAP - here's why

They're full-fledged computers now, complete with operating systems, app stores, background services, and internet connections. As a result, they come with a ton of hidden settings, permissions, and features that most people never know about or use.

It's unfortunate, really, because over the years I have learned that a little tweaking can dramatically improve a TV's quality, performance, privacy, and even security. 

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