
Tizen Update for Samsung TVs: What It Means for Owners of Smart TV Applications
What is known about Tizen 9.0: timelines, models, support
In early 2025, Samsung confirmed that the new Tizen 9.0 operating system version is being distributed to 2024 Smart TV models. According to the official website, the update is already available in Europe and South Korea. The rollout to other markets will follow gradually.
List of Samsung TVs already compatible with Tizen 9.0:
- S95D OLED
- S90D OLED
- S85D OLED
- QN900D 8K Mini-LED
- QN800D 8K Mini-LED
- QN95D Mini-LED
- QN90D Mini-LED
- QN85D Mini-LED
- Q80D QLED
- Q70D QLED
- Q60D QLED
- The Frame (2024)
Samsung also stated that 2023 models will receive Tizen 9.0 later this year. The exact date is not yet known, but based on previous releases, the wait should be around 5–6 months after the main update rollout. A similar interval was observed between Tizen 8.0 and Tizen 7.0 last year.
For companies operating within the Samsung ecosystem or planning to launch, this is an important signal: developing applications for Smart TV requires accounting not only for the current OS version but also for the update schedule. The new system may change the behavior of interface elements, appearance, or even restrict certain functions. Failing to consider this during development might render your app outdated at launch or cause it to fail moderation in the Smart Hub.
At the same time, Samsung confirmed an extended support policy: all Tizen Smart TVs (2023 and newer) will receive OS updates for 7 years. This was announced by a Samsung representative in August 2024. This means the platform will remain relevant for application development over the long term.
What’s new in Tizen 9.0:
- Real-time subtitles: TVs now automatically translate subtitles. This feature uses built-in AI and simplifies viewing foreign-language content.
- Redesigned interface: The home screen has become simpler: elements are larger, and navigation is more intuitive. The settings menu can now be customized in size, position, and transparency.
- Enhanced security: The CryptoCore module has been introduced, responsible for data protection within the device, including app payments, personal accounts, and authentication.
If your app handles videos, requires login, or uses system menu elements, you should verify how it appears and functions after the update.
Changes to consider when working with Tizen 9.0:
The system update not only affects the appearance of the TV but also how users perceive installed applications.
User expectations change:
As the system becomes simpler and smarter, some interface elements might seem cluttered or outdated. For example, if your app looks different from the home screen or menu, it might impact engagement. Users expect consistent operation, logic, and speed.
Interface updates may be required:
Buttons, navigation panels, text blocks—these are now displayed differently against the new system. To retain your audience, check how your app looks relative to the updated environment. Sometimes, resizing and contrast adjustments suffice; in other cases, redesign may be necessary.
New API capabilities:
Tizen 9.0 includes an updated set of developer tools, enabling new features previously unavailable, such as real-time subtitles or new navigation formats. If your business involves videos, content interaction, or personalization, explore the new technical resources.
Increased security — increased trust:
If your app involves authorization, paid access, or personal data, compliance with new system requirements is essential. The CryptoCore module enhances device-level security, but your application must also handle data properly. Security features now form a visible part of the user experience. Early analysis of how these changes will impact usage scenarios will make it easier to ensure application stability and competitiveness.
How to prepare for the transition to Tizen 9.0
If you already have an application running on Samsung TVs or plan to launch one soon, it’s advisable to prepare for these changes in advance.
- Conduct an audit of your current version: Review which TV models your application is installed on and compare them with the update schedule. This will help you understand which devices will transition to the new system in the upcoming months.
- Gather a list of system features: Identify which elements of your application depend on system components, such as navigation, video playback, remote control interaction, or authorization. These points are potentially the most sensitive to OS changes.
- Check your interface structure: Even if your design currently works well, assess how it will look next to the updated system environment. You might need to adjust button sizes, layout, or contrast to ensure consistency and usability.
- Update your scenario map and metrics: The speed at which users reach their goals and their behavior in different conditions could change after the update. Analyzing these aspects helps you understand where performance might drop and how to optimize the user experience.
- Develop a plan for the next 3–6 months: Define which updates are necessary, test critical features thoroughly, and schedule the launch of a new version if required. Planning ahead ensures a smoother transition and minimal disruptions.
The DigiNeat team can help you adapt your application to Tizen 9.0 — from interface checks to releasing the updated version. We will identify potential risks and suggest solutions to maintain stability and user comfort.

