Smart thinking; TVs without the smarts

Mitchell & Brown’s non-smart TV mode brings back the comfort, security, and simplicity loved by generations of broadcast TV viewers.

In a world where everything from your fridge to your lightbulb wants to connect to Wi-Fi, one British TV brand is daring to be delightfully different. Mitchell & Brown, the UK’s favourite family-focused television brand, has announced that all its latest TiVo-based TVs are available with an innovative non-smart TV mode. This unique feature lets viewers enjoy simple, secure, traditional Freeview TV without any connected complications.

From the moment the new Mitchell & Brown TV is switched on, Wi-Fi setup can be skipped entirely, ensuring all smart features and apps remain hidden during day-to-day use. The mode remains enabled, with user prompts to connect, even after power-offs or resets. The result is a pure broadcast viewing experience: no apps, no confusing icons or subscription services. The TV reverts to straightforward Freeview broadcast channels over a standard aerial connection.

At first glance, offering a way to “turn off the smart” might seem counterintuitive in 2025. Yet for thousands of customers, this is precisely what they’ve been waiting for. Whether it’s older viewers who simply want familiar TV without navigating endless menus, or family members buying sets for parents and relatives who find modern interfaces intimidating, Mitchell & Brown’s non-smart mode restores the comfort, security and simplicity of the classic television.

“Technology should serve people, not the other way round,” says Dan Brown, Purchasing Director at Mitchell & Brown. “We’ve listened carefully to our customers, retailers and installers, and a huge number were asking for a way to make our brilliant TiVo OS TVs behave just like the reliable televisions of old. Our new non-smart mode does exactly that, delivering a traditional broadcast experience with none of the hassle, confusion or risk of connected features.”

The benefits go well beyond simplicity. In non-smart mode, the TV genuinely hides all smart functions, streaming apps and online menus, leaving only live broadcast channels, the programme guide and standard AV inputs such as HDMI and USB. That means no chance of accidentally opening a paid-for app, no security concerns from internet connectivity, and no opportunity for settings to be changed by mistake. For many families, this provides real peace of mind when buying for elderly parents living independently or in supported accommodation.

The non-smart mode is also a perfect solution for environments where ease of use and dependability matter more than connectivity. Guest bedrooms, holiday homes, caravans, static homes and rental properties can all benefit from a TV that simply works every time it’s switched on, without updates, logins or streaming accounts to manage. With the benefit of Mitchell & Brown’s renowned build quality, seven-year warranty and UK-based support, these TVs offer long-term reassurance as well as day-to-day simplicity.

“Mitchell & Brown has always put customers first,” adds Dan Brown. “Our reputation was built on helping families and older viewers enjoy TV without stress or confusion. The new non-smart mode takes that commitment even further, ensuring that no one feels confounded or nervous about technology.”

Mitchell & Brown’s new TiVo OS TVs with non-smart mode are available now through the brand’s network of trusted independent retailers and online partners across the UK. To find your nearest stockist, visit mitchellandbrown.co.uk and rediscover the simple joy of just watching TV.

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Editors notes

Founded in 1996 by Jim Brown and his sons Matthew and Daniel, the TVD Group started from humble beginnings in a shop in Leigh and has now become a leading UK provider in audio visual solutions. Putting the customer at the heart of everything it does and offering unrivalled service and quality products has acted as a catalyst for growth, which has seen the group go from strength to strength.

In 2016, to celebrate the brand's 20th anniversary and pay tribute to their late father, the two brothers decided to develop their very own exclusive TV brand, names 'Mitchell & Brown' using their father's surname and Jim's mother's maiden name.

Built by Europe’s largest TV manufacturer, who design and manufacture TV’s for almost every major brand around the world, each television undergoes rigorous control processes and testing.

Mitchell & Brown TV sets come in various sizes, including LED TVs from 20” to 75” with build in features such as Freeview Play, Smart TV apps, 4K UHD, WIFI, Hotel Mode and DVD Combi.

The Mitchell & Brown TV range comes with an industry-leading 7-year warranty, so its products have a reputation for client satisfaction and reliability.