How to Get Philo on a Smart TV (And Options If You Can’t)

Philo can be a great option for those looking to stream live TV channels at an affordable price, but the service is still limited on device support, and especially in terms of smart TVs. Still, there are many TVs models from a variety of popular brands that are supported, and there is always the option of connecting another device to a smart TV to bridge the support gap.

One of Philo’s main selling points is the price. Live TV streaming services have encountered multiple price increases in recent years, and although Philo’s price has increased as well, a subscription still only costs $25 per month. At this price, Philo is a more affordable option than many of the other main services. There are some limitations, however, with the channel lineup a prime example.

Another limitation at the moment is device support. At present, Philo is fairly limited on support for smart TVs compared to other platforms and devices. For example, the Philo app is currently unavailable to download on Samsung smart TVs. The same is also the case for TVs made by LG, Vizio and other major smart TV brands that utilize their own operation systems.

Philo on a smart TV

Philo can be downloaded on many smart TVs, with the main caveat being that the TV needs to be running on a popular third-party operating system. For example, the Philo app can be downloaded from the Roku Channel Store on any TVs running on Roku OS. This includes various smart TV models made by Hisense and TCL. The Philo app can also be downloaded directly from the Amazon Appstore on any ‘Fire TV Edition’ smart TVs. This includes most smart TV models made by both Toshiba and Insignia.

Another option is Android TV. Depending on the model and age of the device, the operating system will be labeled as Android TV or Google TV. Regardless, as long as the smart TV is running on either of these, the Philo can can be downloaded directly from the Google Play Store. Compared to Roku OS and Fire TV, the list of TVs powered by Android/Google TV is far more substantial, and includes many models by Hisense, Sharp, Sony and TCL, among others.

If an individual or household is using a TV which doesn’t currently offer access to a dedicated Philo app, then the user will need to consider connecting another device to bridge the support gap and stream live TV. Although not an ideal solution for those that want to keep their entertainment setup to a minimum, it is the best option other than waiting to see if the TV gains direct Philo support in the future.

Connecting a streaming player

Generally speaking, Philo is a little better supported at the streaming player level. Not to mention, with streaming players available to buy for less than $50, picking up a streaming player is usually a much more affordable option to access apps like Philo than actually replacing the TV. For many individuals and households that already have access to a streaming player, there won’t be a need to purchase a new one.

For example, consumers can connect an Apple TV player (4th gen or later) or a Roku player, such as the Roku Express, Roku Streaming Stick, or Roku Ultra, and stream Philo. In addition, pretty much any Fire TV device can also be connected and used to access the live TV service. Another option is to connect a streaming player that’s powered by Android/Google TV. This includes Google’s own Chromecast with Google TV, Nvidia’s Shield TV and Shield TV Pro, as well as Xiaomi’s various Mi Box players.

If none of these devices are available, a standard Chromecast is also an option. With a Chromecast connected to a smart TV, the user can cast Philo from the mobile app using their smartphone. For reference, Philo can also be accessed on a Mac or a Windows computer or laptop. Due to this, if the individual or household can already connect their desktop or laptop to their TV, this can be a workaround for watching Philo on a smart TV.

Philo on a smart TV summary

At present, Philo is only available to download on smart TVs from a select number of brands. More important than the actual maker of the TV is the operating system. As long as the smart TV is powered by either Fire TV, Roku OS, or Android/Google TV, then the Philo subscriber should have no issues downloading the app from the respective app store.

Philo is currently unavailable to download directly on Samsung, LG and Vizio smart TVs, although that may change in the future. If using any of these unsupported TVs, then the best option will be to stream Philo from another device that’s connected to the TV, such as an Apple TV player, Roku or Fire TV device, an Android/Google TV player, or a Chromecast. Alternatively, Philo subscribers can connect a mobile, laptop or computer to the TV as a workaround.