By: Dipin Sehdev

Samsung is beginning the deployment of Tizen 9.0, the OS version that debuted with its 2025 TV lineup, to select older Smart TV models. This update signifies Samsung's ongoing dedication to providing extended software support for its televisions.

Historically, software updates for older Smart TVs were not a consistent practice across the industry. However, Samsung has shifted its strategy, committing to seven years of free OS upgrades from the launch date for its TVs. This initiative started last year when Samsung upgraded its 2023 models from Tizen 7.0 to Tizen 8.0 in October.

This week, some owners of Samsung's 2024 TVs in Europe have started receiving firmware version 2106.0, which brings the Tizen 9.0 update. While this marks a shorter waiting period compared to last year's rollout, it’s important to note that the new firmware will reach 2024 and 2023 models globally over the coming months. Samsung is implementing a gradual rollout, so users are encouraged to check their TV regularly for availability.

As of now, Samsung has not issued an official statement regarding the timeline for Tizen 9.0 reaching 2023 models.

New Features and Enhancements

Tizen 9.0 introduces several notable improvements and features designed to enhance the user experience:

• Redesigned Settings Menu: Users will find a refreshed settings menu that offers greater customization. This includes the ability to resize elements and adjust the menu's transparency, allowing for a more personalized viewing experience while making adjustments.

• Interface Tweaks: Beyond the settings menu, Tizen 9.0 incorporates a handful of other subtle interface adjustments aimed at refining the overall user interaction. The interface offers a cleaner aesthetic and pulls key information closer to the screen.

• Enhanced Security: The update includes crucial security enhancements, such as the integration of CryptoCore, to bolster the TV's protection against potential vulnerabilities.

• Live Translate for Subtitles: A significant new feature is the addition of Samsung's Live Translate. This functionality can automatically translate subtitles, providing a valuable tool for viewers watching content in foreign languages.

Important Note for Gamers: HGiG Game HDR Removal

Users who rely on the Game HDR option with HGiG should be aware that this feature will be removed with the Tizen 9.0 update. This change may impact those who leverage this specific setting for console gaming.

Supported TV Models

While the rollout is gradual and may vary by region, the Tizen 9.0 update is expected to reach a range of Samsung Smart TVs from 2024 and eventually 2023. Based on initial reports, the following 2024 models are anticipated to receive the Tizen 9.0 update:

• Samsung S95D OLED TV

• Samsung S90D OLED TV

• Samsung S85D OLED TV

• Samsung QN900D 8K Mini-LED TV

• Samsung QN800D 8K Mini-LED TV

• Samsung QN95D Mini-LED TV

• Samsung QN90D Mini-LED TV

• Samsung QN85D Mini-LED TV

• Samsung Q80D QLED TV

• Samsung Q70D QLED TV

• Samsung Q60D QLED TV

• Samsung The Frame (2024)

Checking for the Update

To manually check if the Tizen 9.0 update is available for your Samsung Smart TV, navigate to Settings, then All Settings, and proceed to Support. Within this section, you will find the Software Update option, which allows you to initiate the update process if the firmware is accessible in your region.

The rollout of Tizen 9.0 to older Samsung Smart TVs underscores the company's commitment to delivering a consistent and evolving user experience across its product lines. While the update itself may be considered incremental in terms of new features, the ongoing software support aligns with Samsung's promise of extended OS upgrades, benefiting a wider range of users.