Samsung UE55D8000 55in net-connected LED TV

3D telly with downloadable apps

Don't worry, be app-y

The D8000 is the first of Samsung’s Smart Hub internet connected TVs to arrive in the UK. The brand has moved up from its Internet@TV platform for a more ambitious and app-centric service. The top half of the Smart Hub screen divides into a Live TV window, a New Apps showcase and an online video search area. The bottom half is a ‘desktop’ for your apps and telly functions.

SmartHub: icon frenzy

Content apps include Facebook, Twitter, YouTube - with an HD option - and video streaming service LoveFilm. You can also do video calls over Skype if you plug in a webcam.

In addition to the apps, the Smart Hub also offers an open web browser. Helpfully, it has Flash support so you can sneak a look at Redtube when no one is looking, ahem. Moving around a browser with a remote control is a little clunky, but it's a nice feature to have.

Incidentally, browsing the Smart Hub had unforeseen consequences during my time with the telly. A conflict in IR codes meant that some Smart Hub commands actually caused my IR controllable curtains to randomly open and close.