When it comes to their Smart TV lineup, their proprietary software interface is called Tizen OS. It was created back in 2012 and was based on an open-source Linux kernel. Over the years, they have refined this platform to host a variety of features and services, including but not limited to Samsung TV Plus, Universal Guide, and Bixby voice assistant.
This operating system has also received regular updates to fix various bugs and make the UI clean and easy to use. Today, it can be found on over 200 million Samsung Smart TVs spread all over the world. Now, Samsung is planning to expand this reach even further by expanding its Tizen OS licensing agreements to original development manufacturing brands.
ODMs are companies that design and build their own TVs without using any Samsung panels or components but can now host Samsung's Tizen OS as their smart TV interface. This type of licensing plan was initially introduced in 2021 during their annual Samsung Developer Conference. Some brands have already adopted the formula and are selling TVs with the operating system. These include ODM brands like HKC, Atmaca, and Tempo, which sell their TVs in the Australian market.
Now, they are planning to expand this list to include other Tizen-powered TVs, such as Bauhn, Linsar, Sonny, and Vispera. It will take some time for the complete rollout to happen, but chances are that you will be able to get these special models in the market by the end of this year. In addition to these brands and models, Samsung will also be expanding Tizen OS to other regions, including Germany, Italy, Turkey, the UK, and New Zealand.
