[DigitalToday reporter Chi-gyu Hwang] TV makers showcased smart TVs with AI features at the global IT trade show CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Questions are also being raised about whether AI is essential for TVs.

The Verge reported on Jan. 8 (local time) that Samsung Electronics, Amazon and Google are expanding AI use to video recommendations, voice recognition and smart home integration.

Google showcased Gemini AI features for TVs at CES 2026. Gemini for TVs goes beyond a recommendation system to explain why it suggests something. LG Electronics also strengthened personalised recommendations through voice recognition.

Samsung Electronics showcased an AI TV that provides everything from sports predictions to cooking recipes. Amazon unveiled Alexa Plus, which lets users jump straight to a desired movie scene through voice commands.

There are also concerns that AI features could disrupt the viewing experience. Some say information panels that take up part of the screen and video-generation functions could undermine immersion.

The Verge said, "We need to consider whether AI TV is really a necessary feature." It said Hisense, which developed a 21:9 aspect ratio TV, showcased AI that displays soccer match information on the screen, but this can be addressed well enough on a smartphone. It added that, in the end, a TV is still fundamentally about "watching content."