In Nigeria, juggling multiple devices for TV, internet, and hotspot services can be a real headache. Airtel is trying to solve that with its Smart TV Box. It promises to turn any TV into a smart TV, while also serving as your home’s internet hub. But does it actually deliver on this big promise, or is it too good to be true? Here’s the real talk on this little black box.
The Hot Parts (What’s Awesome)
- It’s a 3-in-1 Powerhouse: This is the biggest selling point. It’s not just a smart TV box; it’s also a Wi-Fi router and a hotspot. You can stream Netflix on your TV while your family connects their phones and laptops to its Wi-Fi. This cleans up the clutter of having multiple devices and subscriptions.
- FREE Unlimited Data for a Month: This is a massive bonus. Right out of the box, you get one month of completely unlimited data. You can download, stream, and browse as much as you want without worrying about data caps. It’s the perfect way to test just how much you can do with it.
- Built-in Battery (No More “NEPA Has Taken Light”): This is a true game-changer for anyone in Nigeria. The box has an internal battery that acts as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). When the power goes out, the box stays on! Your movie won’t stop, and your Wi-Fi won’t drop. This feature alone is a huge relief.
- Loads of Connectivity Ports: They didn’t skimp on the ports. You get everything you could possibly need: HDMI for your TV, USB ports for your hard drives, Optical Audio for your sound system, and even a 3.5mm AV jack for older TVs. The USB-C port is a modern touch, too.
The Normal Parts (What You Expect)
- It Makes Any TV Smart: This is its main job. It runs on Android 12 for TV, which is a recent and clean-looking operating system. You can download all your favourite apps like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and more directly from the Google Play Store.
- Decent Performance: With 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, the box is snappy enough for everyday streaming and app usage. Navigating menus is smooth, and apps open reasonably fast. It’s not a high-end gaming machine, but for watching videos and browsing, it’s perfectly fine.
- Simple Setup: Getting it up and running is straightforward. You plug it into your TV, connect it to the power, and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Google account and Wi-Fi.
The Could-Be-Better Parts (The Small Downsides)
- You’re locked to Airtel: This is the most important thing to know. The device only works with an Airtel SIM card. You can’t pop in an MTN or Glo SIM if you have better network coverage with them. You are committing to the Airtel network for this device to function.
- SIM Registration Hassle: You must register the included SIM card at an official Airtel centre. You can’t just do it from home, which can be an inconvenient extra step for some people.
- 8GB Storage Isn’t a Lot: While 8GB is standard for many streaming boxes, it can fill up quickly if you download a lot of apps and games. You’ll have to manage your storage and can’t just download everything you see.
Should You Buy It?
If you are already an Airtel user or live in an area with strong Airtel 4G/5G coverage, this device is an absolute no-brainer. The combination of a smart TV box, a powerful router, and a built-in battery for constant power is an incredible value package specifically tailored for the Nigerian market. The one month of free unlimited data makes it a fantastic deal to start with.
However, if you rely on a different network for your internet, this isn’t for you.
For the right person, the Airtel Smart TV Box isn’t just a gadget; it’s a smart solution to several common problems at once. It simplifies your home entertainment and internet setup brilliantly. If you want uninterrupted streaming and reliable Wi-Fi in one box, you should definitely consider it.
