So you just got a shiny new Samsung TV, set it up, and now you're staring at the home screen wondering how to get Netflix on there. Been there! When I bought my first QLED last year, I spent nearly 20 minutes just trying to find the app store. Turns out, adding apps isn't complicated once you know where to look.
Before You Start: What Samsung TV Do You Have?
First things first - not all Samsung TVs work the same. Models from 2015 onward use Tizen OS, but the interface changed significantly around 2020. My neighbor's 2018 model has a completely different menu than my 2022 frame TV. Here's how to check:
- Press the Home button on your remote (looks like a house)
- Go to Settings > Support > About This TV
- Note the Model Code (e.g., QN90B) and Software Version
| TV Generation | App Installation Method | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015-2018 Models | Samsung Apps Store via "Apps" panel | Limited app selection |
| 2019-2022 Models | Samsung Store via Media/Home Hub | Supports sideloading via USB |
| 2023+ Models | Samsung Gaming Hub/App Store | Cloud gaming apps available |
Personal Tip: If you've got an older model (pre-2019), don't expect to find Disney+ or HBO Max natively. You might need a streaming stick.
The Main Method: Installing Apps Through Samsung Store
This is how most people add apps on Samsung Smart TV devices. Just last week I helped my mom do this:
Step-by-Step Walkthrough
- Press the Smart Hub button (multicolor icon)
- Select "APPS" from the bottom menu
- Use the directional pad to browse categories
- Highlight your desired app and press "Install"
Sounds simple, right? But here's where people mess up: if you don't see the app icon immediately after installation, check your "My Apps" folder. Sometimes new apps get buried there instead of appearing on the main screen. Drives me nuts when that happens.
Storage Warning: Base models often come with only 4GB storage. One system update and you're out of space. Delete unused apps under Settings > Device Care > Manage Storage.
What If Your App Isn't in the Store?
Ran into this trying to install Plex last month. Possible reasons:
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Regional restrictions | Change country in Settings > General > System Manager > Language |
| Outdated TV software | Update via Settings > Support > Software Update |
| App discontinued | Use screen mirroring from phone/laptop |
Advanced Option: Sideloading Apps via USB
When Samsung's store doesn't have what you need (like Kodi or certain utilities), sideloading is your friend. I did this to get a better file manager - Samsung's own is pretty basic.
Sideloading Requirements
- Developer Mode activated (Settings > System > Developer Mode)
- USB drive formatted to FAT32
- .TPK files (Tizen application packages)
Honestly? The process feels clunky. You have to enable developer mode each time you reboot the TV. And finding trustworthy TPK files is tricky - some shady sites bundle malware. Not my favorite way to add apps.
Installation Steps
- Download the TPK file on your computer
- Transfer to USB drive's root directory
- Insert USB into TV's service port
- Go to Apps > Settings icon > Install Personal Apps
- Follow prompts to install
Warning: Apps installed this way won't auto-update. You'll need to manually reinstall new versions. Total hassle for most users.
Essential Apps You Should Install
After testing dozens, these are my must-haves:
| App Category | Top Picks | Why Install? |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | Netflix, Disney+, YouTube | Native 4K/HDR support |
| Utilities | Web Browser, SmartThings | Control smart home devices |
| Gaming | GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud | No console required (2020+ models) |
| Local Media | Plex, VLC | Play files from USB drives |
Skip the bloatware though. That "Fitness" app? Used it twice. The preloaded "Rakuten TV"? Never touched it. Free up that precious storage.
Why Can't I Add Certain Apps? Common Issues Solved
These problems come up constantly in forums:
"App Store Won't Load"
- Check internet connection (Settings > General > Network)
- Power cycle your router and TV
- Reset Smart Hub (Settings > Support > Device Care > Self Diagnosis > Reset Smart Hub)
"Install Button Grayed Out"
Usually means:
- Insufficient storage (delete unused apps)
- Parental controls blocking installs
- Software conflict (try resetting)
"App Installed But Not Opening"
Happened with my Hulu app last winter:
- Force stop the app (Settings > Apps > select app > Force Stop)
- Clear cache (same menu)
- Reinstall completely
Alternative Methods When All Else Fails
Sometimes adding apps directly isn't possible. Here's what works:
Screen Mirroring
For unsupported apps like Twitch:
- Android: Smart View in quick settings
- iPhone: Screen Mirroring in Control Center
- Windows: Win+K to cast display
Quality varies though. My iPhone mirroring stutters when streaming sports.
External Streaming Devices
When you're fed up with Samsung's limitations:
| Device | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Stick 4K | Massive app selection | Ads on home screen |
| Apple TV | Fluid interface | Expensive |
| Chromecast | Simple casting | Requires phone control |
I ended up buying an Apple TV for my theater room. Samsung's interface just couldn't handle all my subscriptions smoothly.
Samsung TV App Store Limitations
Let's be real - Samsung's app ecosystem has issues:
- App abandonment: Remember when Facebook had a TV app? Gone.
- Regional disparity: UK gets BBC iPlayer, US doesn't
- Update delays: HBO Max updates hit Roku weeks before Samsung
The worst? When they remove apps without warning. RIP Spotify TV app - you're missed every movie night.
FAQ: Quick Answers to Burning Questions
How do I add apps on Samsung Smart TV that aren't in the store?
Try sideloading via USB as covered earlier. Honestly though, it's often easier to use external streaming devices for unavailable apps.
Why doesn't my Samsung Smart TV have all apps?
Samsung doesn't license every app. Certain networks (like HBO) prioritize platforms with more users. Also applies to regional restrictions.
Can I add Google Play store to Samsung TV?
Nope. Samsung uses Tizen OS, not Android TV. You'll never get full Google Play access.
How often do new apps appear on Samsung Smart TV?
Major apps launch quarterly. Smaller apps? Maybe once a year. The store feels stagnant compared to competitors.
Do I need Samsung account to add apps?
Yes. Annoying but mandatory. Create one during initial setup.
Why can't I find Disney+ on my Samsung TV?
Check three things: TV compatibility (2016+), software version, and country settings. If all match, reinstall Smart Hub.
Can I move apps to external storage?
Unfortunately not. Samsung doesn't support app installation on USB drives. Storage limitations remain my biggest complaint.
Maintaining Your Apps
Once you've added apps:
- Enable auto-updates (Settings > Support > Software Update > Auto Update)
- Monthly: Clean up unused apps
- Quarterly: Reset Smart Hub to clear glitches
Honest opinion? Samsung's software feels neglected compared to their hardware. That gorgeous QD-OLED panel deserves better app support. Hopefully they improve this in future updates.
At the end of the day, learning how do you add apps on Samsung Smart TV opens up what your television can do. Takes some tinkering, but saves buying additional gadgets. Now if you'll excuse me, my Netflix just finished updating - movie time!
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