Movistar plus+ cuts off thousands: compatibility chaos sweeps smart tvs
Movistar Plus+ is scrambling to notify users as it shutters support for a growing number of older smart TVs, leaving subscribers scrambling to understand their options.
The silent switch: a wave of disconnection
The telecom giant is updating its website with revised compatibility lists, a reactive measure following mounting user frustration. But the real story isn’t just about notifications; it’s about the creeping obsolescence of once-reliable streaming devices. This isn’t a new phenomenon – Netflix, HBO Max, and countless others have systematically phased out support for older models, forcing consumers into costly upgrades.
Samsung owners from 2016 onwards still have access, but many are discovering that crucial features – profiles, watchlists, and even recording capabilities – are being quietly stripped away from their older televisions. LG users are experiencing similar issues, with reports emerging that devices purchased just two years ago are now deemed incompatible, a particularly bitter pill to swallow for loyal customers.
Behind the curtain: lg's delayed updates
The controversy surrounding LG is particularly sharp. Numerous users are pointing fingers at the company for continuing to sell outdated models – some dating back to 2016 – even as they’re rendered unusable by software updates. This isn’t a technical glitch with Movistar; it’s a consequence of LG’s continued production of older hardware, a troubling oversight that’s leaving consumers in the lurch. The sheer volume of complaints on X (formerly Twitter) suggests a systemic problem, not an isolated incident.
Beyond Samsung and LG, other brands – Hisense with its VIDAA OS, TiVo models from Panasonic and JVC, and even Philips’ Titan OS – are also implementing similar cut-off dates. The critical takeaway? Before investing in a new television, meticulously check the manufacturer’s update schedule and, crucially, confirm compatibility with Movistar Plus+.
The wider landscape: beyond movistar
The situation extends beyond Spain. Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV (4th and 5th generation) remain viable options, though the Chromecast without Google TV requires a workaround – utilizing the Movistar Plus+ mobile app as a remote control. However, even these established platforms aren’t immune to obsolescence, demanding vigilance from users.
Movistar is urging users to consult its website for a complete list of compatible devices, a list that, frankly, feels increasingly outdated. The operator’s own website now explicitly states that models pre-dating specific years are no longer supported, a stark reminder of the ever-shifting sands of the streaming world. It's a frustrating game of catch-up for consumers and a testament to the rapid pace of technological advancement – and the often-unforeseen consequences for those who simply want to watch television.