Vizio users are now beginning to encounter an ad when switching inputs. While ads are a common part of the TV experience, seeing them while switching from one input to another is a new and unwanted level by many.
What You Need to Know
- Vizio TVs are now showing what looks like an ad when switching inputs.
- The prompt is actually a notification urging users to switch to Walmart accounts.
- It seems merging accounts is the only way to permanently disable the prompt.
Unlike other ads, Vizio users encountering the problem are seeing the exact same ad. However, it’s not an ad. It’s a notification.
Earlier this year, and following Walmart’s acquisition of Vizio, it became impossible for users to set up a new Vizio TV with a Vizio account. They now have to create and use a Walmart account instead.
While the change technically only affects new Vizio TVs, those with an existing TV are now beginning to see a large-screen prompt recommending they merge their Vizio account with a Walmart account.
A Vizio FAQ post detailing the change confirms that some TVs purchased before March 2026 will begin seeing the prompt following a software update.
“Existing TVs (purchased before March 2026): As software updates roll out, some VIZIO and onn TVs purchased before March 2026 will begin using Walmart accounts for Smart TV features as well. When this happens, you’ll see prompts on your TV to sign in or create a Walmart account.”
This appears to be what is now happening for users who have recently encountered the prompt.
For now, this appears to be more of a recommendation than an obligation, as users are able to remove the prompt by clicking on the Dismiss button.
However, a Vizio support account responding to questions about this recent change seems to suggest that the only way to permanently remove the prompt is to merge the Vizio and Walmart accounts.
If that is the case, existing Vizio TV users can continue to expect to see the prompt each time they switch inputs, and possible in other instances when navigating the SmartCast experience.
In the same help post, Vizio does note that a Walmart account is required to use a variety of smart features, including accessing built‑in streaming apps and software updates.
As a result, those choosing not to merge their accounts may find that they lose access to some of these smart features in the future.
While they will continue to be able to use HDMI and antenna inputs without an account, it seems they can expect the prompt recommending merging accounts to be displayed each time the input is switched.
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