X (formerly Twitter) has rolled out its smart TV app, which is currently in beta and available on Google Play, Amazon, and LG app stores. While the Play Store description promotes it as a new way to explore the world of X, it’s debatable how many users will embrace engaging with social media on a large screen via a remote control. However, with X offering video content, expanding to TVs is logical, allowing users to stream events like SpaceX launches directly from their living rooms.
Elon Musk announced the beta release of X TV, which is now available on select Amazon Fire, Google, and LG TVs. For those without compatible devices, there’s little to miss for now. A teaser video previewed a typical streaming interface with rows of video links, but the current selection is sparse, featuring shows like Tucker Carlson’s and content from SpaceX and Tesla. Users may also find that the actual app—especially on Amazon Fire TV—lacks both the content and the polished look seen in the teaser.
At its core, X TV is a video delivery system for content already available on X, requiring users to log in with their X account to access a curated selection of videos. Early testers have reported that the initial recommendations may not appeal to those outside Musk’s political leanings. For example, the first suggested videos included clips from conservative influencers like Megyn Kelly, Andy Ngo, and Tucker Carlson. These choices reflect X’s increasingly conservative user base in recent years.
While X TV’s content may attract a niche audience, it lacks the depth and variety competitors like YouTube or even Rumble offer. The app’s launch could be exciting for Musk supporters and fans of X’s video content. However, even within that group, the app feels disappointingly barebones compared to its rivals.
Ultimately, Musk’s vision of transforming X into an all-encompassing app continues to take shape. With X TV, video content is now accessible on bigger screens, bringing the platform into more homes. Despite its limitations, this move marks another step in X’s effort to compete in the streaming and social media space.
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