Smart TVs With Bluetooth: What You Need to Know

Bluetooth has become a standard way to link audio devices, game controllers, and even smartphones to a television. If you’re shopping for a new TV or want to make the most of your existing smart TV, understanding how Bluetooth works can unlock a smoother, more versatile entertainment experience.

Do All Smart TVs Support Bluetooth?

Not every smart TV includes Bluetooth out of the box. Most recent models from major brands—Samsung, Sony, LG, and TCL—feature built‑in Bluetooth, but lower‑priced or older units may rely on external adapters. To determine whether your TV supports Bluetooth, check the specifications sheet, look for a Bluetooth icon in the settings menu, or consult the user manual. If the TV lacks native Bluetooth, a USB Bluetooth dongle can provide the same functionality.

Why Bluetooth Matters for Your Smart TV

How to Connect Any Bluetooth Device to a Smart TV

Below is a universal approach that works for most brands. The steps are simple, and you can repeat the process for headphones, speakers, or a phone.

  1. Open the TV’s Settings menu and navigate to Sound or Network & Accessories.
  2. Select Bluetooth and turn the feature on.
  3. Put your Bluetooth device into pairing mode (refer to the device’s manual).
  4. When the device appears on the TV screen, highlight it and choose Pair.
  5. Confirm any on‑screen prompts, then test the connection with a short audio clip or video.

Step‑by‑Step: Pair Apple AirPods with a Samsung Smart TV

Apple AirPods work well with Samsung TVs that have Bluetooth 5.0 or newer. I show you how to pair/sync/connect Apple AirPods to a Samsung TV in just a few minutes.

  1. On your Samsung TV, go to Settings > Sound > Sound Output.