Consumers searching for TV Smart Stick reviews, complaints and information about streaming free content need clear and honest information. Dozens of misleading ads on social media and other platforms promote TVSmart Stick as an AI-powered device that eliminates the need for cable subscriptions. The claims fall apart upon close examination.
The ads promise “access to all channels — no cable needed.” Some versions even show logos from Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max and Apple TV+ — suggesting those premium services come included with the device. This implication is false. Users must still pay monthly subscription fees to stream content from those platforms, just like any other device.
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First, if any readers wish to watch my YouTube video review of TV Smart Stick, please access that below:
Fake Tech Blog and Advertorial Claims Mislead Consumers
One of the more deceptive aspects of the scam involves a fake tech blog. The promotional article, presented as a news piece by a supposed publication named “TechTrends,” actually lives on the domain tv-smart.co — the very website selling the device. This setup attempts to trick consumers into believing they are reading an unbiased review from a legitimate source.
The blog post claims an “AI-powered device lets you access channels and content from on-demand video services on any TV without monthly fees.” The reality, however, tells a very different story. The TV Smart Stick does not bypass subscription paywalls. Streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO Max still require paid subscriptions to access content, regardless of the hardware used.
Rebranded G96 Streaming Stick Sold at Inflated Prices
The TV Smart Stick is not a groundbreaking piece of hardware. It’s simply a rebranded G96 streaming stick — a low-cost device available for under $20 on bulk supply sites. Sellers on tv-smart.co mark up the price to as high as $84 per unit. Buyers who order two or more receive a small discount, but the product still sells for far more than its actual value.
Close inspection of the product reveals the G96 model number on the device and its packaging, even though sellers possibly attempted to Photoshop it out in some images. In animated promotional GIFs, “G96” clearly appears on the underside of the device. On product packaging, the branding also shows through in some angles.
The marketing copy suggests that the device provides “instant access to all TV channels for free.” This is not true. The G96 — and by extension the TV Smart Stick — only offers access to a limited number of free, ad-supported streaming channels, many of which play looped content such as news clips or old television shows.
Misleading Terminology: “Subscription-Free Box”
The product listing on tv-smart.co describes TVSmart Stick as a “subscription-free box.” While the hardware itself does not require a subscription, any meaningful use of it absolutely does. Streaming content from major services still requires users to log in with valid, paid accounts.
The promise of “instant access to all TV channels” also misleads. Many potential buyers interpret this language to mean access to live cable networks such as CNN, FX, TNT, or Lifetime. In reality, the device might access streaming-only channels like ABC News Live or NBC News Now — channels already freely available on YouTube or through smart TV apps. These are not replacements for paid cable programming.
Fictional Inventor and Fake Testimonials Add to the Deception
Promotional material references a fictional character named “Remy,” supposedly the innovative mind behind TVSmart Stick. The story describes him as a visionary who journeyed to Silicon Valley and cracked the code to streaming success. But no such person exists. The tale works only as marketing fiction to make the product seem credible.
Photos used in the ads show a man in a TED Talk-style setting — clearly intended to create a sense of authority and modern tech legitimacy. These tactics echo methods used in other tech scams, where fake backstories lend credibility to low-quality or deceptive products.
Shipping Policy Reveals Overseas Operations
The tv-smart.co delivery policy reveals a shipping and return address in China:
First High-tech Industrial Park, Sandy Kong, Room 305, Building 109, No. 72, Guowei Road, the Luohu District, ZIP CODE: 518004, Shenzhen, China
This detail might surprise customers who expect a U.S.-based operation. Many Trustpilot reviews and complaints note that returns cost nearly as much as the product itself, making refunds impractical or financially pointless. One review specifically warns, “You have to send it back to China which costs almost as much as the unit.”
TV Smart Stick Complaints on BBB and Consumer Sites
TV Smart Stick complaints appear on consumer watchdog websites including Trustpilot, where it holds a 1.4 out of 5 rating from more than 200 reviews. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) may also list complaints, though not all users check these sources before purchasing.
The majority of reviews reference either broken hardware, misleading promises about free content, or the difficulty of returning the product. Many reviewers say the device either failed to work or only offered access to content already freely available online.
In one detailed Trustpilot review, a customer wrote:
“This is the biggest scam. All the programming they promise for free requires subscription and when you try and return the product, you have to send it back to China which costs almost as much as the unit. This is just an overpriced Fire Stick. Do not waste your money.”
In another review, a Trustpilot user said:
“Don’t order. This is a total scam. I purchased three of these devices and neither of the remotes will work. Tried different types of AAA batteries. App will open but the remote power indicator on either remote does not come on. I would not recommend this product to anyone. TVSMART isn’t smart.”
A separate customer shared a third experience:
“I am EXTREMELY disappointed! I plugged the mechanism into my TV and the whole TV shut down and refused to work until I removed this mechanism. I’ve been having a variety of antenna issues so I thought this would ‘fix’ my issues. Boy, was I wrong! Not only that but I bought 2, hoping it would fix my broken TV but why bother? Now I’m out $100 plus! Can anyone tell me how to get a refund? I’d appreciate!”
Alternative Recommendation: Try Google Chromecast Instead
Anyone looking for a reliable streaming device should consider the Google Chromecast. This well-established product works with most modern TVs and offers access to all major streaming services. Chromecast does not claim to offer “free cable channels” or “instant access to Netflix.” It sets appropriate expectations, requires users to log in to their legitimate streaming accounts and doesn’t rely on exaggerated marketing claims.
Unlike TV Smart Stick, Google Chromecast avoids misleading language about AI features or fictional inventors. It’s backed by Google and widely reviewed by credible tech outlets. Consumers looking for simple streaming functionality will find Chromecast a trustworthy alternative.
Summary: TV Smart Stick Promises the World, Delivers Little
The growing number of TV Smart Stick reviews, complaints and refund requests paints a clear picture: the product fails to deliver on its promises. It repackages a cheap streaming stick under a flashy name, surrounds it with fictional marketing, and inflates the price beyond reason.
Buyers end up with a glorified G96 stick — a device that cannot access premium streaming content for free and does not replace a cable subscription. The advertised benefits, including access to Netflix, HBO Max, and live cable channels, all fall apart under scrutiny.
Consumers deserve honest information when shopping for TV products. Misleading ads, fake testimonials, and nonexistent tech blogs only serve to confuse and deceive. Always check reviews from real people — including on sites like Trustpilot and the BBB — before purchasing any product that claims to be a revolutionary streaming solution.
TV Smart Stick isn’t smart — it’s a scam that plays off confusion about streaming technology, AI buzzwords and too-good-to-be-true promises.
Editor’s Note: I utilized ChatGPT to help write this article. However, ChatGPT used the transcript from a well-researched YouTube video I created about this subject, meaning hard work went into the creation of this scam-busting effort. Scammers use AI to scam people. It’s time we use AI to bust their scams.