Users and developers are increasingly utilizing AI agents like Claude Code to remove advertisements, disable tracking, and uninstall pre-installed software on smart TVs. These modifications aim to enhance interface responsiveness and reduce intrusive content. The trend highlights a growing demand for greater user control over television operating systems.
The CleanYourTV project, initiated by developer Gathin T., allows users to connect to TVs via Wi-Fi to disable specific software packages and replace default launchers with simplified interfaces. Following the release of the project's code and prompts, thousands of users have attempted to replicate these modifications on their own devices within two days.
Another initiative, DumbTV, leverages AI models including DeepSeek V4.1 Flash, Claude Opus 5.5, and Claude Sonnet 5.5 to assist in development. The project has undergone testing on various platforms, including Fire TV Edition, as well as Android TV and Google TV devices from manufacturers such as Sony, TCL, Philips, Hisense, Xiaomi, and Nvidia Shield.
Individual users are also employing AI coding agents to customize their devices directly. For instance, on October 17, user Ryan Doyle reported using Claude Code to remove ads and pre-installed apps, adjust screen savers, and improve system performance. These efforts often target Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology used for behavior analysis.
Despite the popularity of these tools, they remain in the development and testing phase. Experts warn that modifications may not be compatible with all models. Users have reported issues such as AI refusal to execute commands, interrupted processes, and, in some cases, device malfunctions or failure to boot due to the removal of critical system components.
