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Home » How do I change the screensaver on a Samsung TV?

How do I change the screensaver on a Samsung TV?

September 24, 2025 by TinyGrab Team Leave a Comment

Table of Contents

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  • How to Change the Screensaver on a Samsung TV: A Comprehensive Guide
      • Troubleshooting Common Issues
    • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
      • 1. What is the difference between “Ambient Mode” and “Art Mode” on Samsung TVs?
      • 2. Can I use my own photos as screensavers on any Samsung TV?
      • 3. How do I upload photos to my Samsung TV using the SmartThings app?
      • 4. What image formats are supported for displaying photos on Samsung TVs?
      • 5. Is there a maximum resolution or file size for the photos I can use?
      • 6. How do I adjust the brightness and color tone of Ambient Mode or Art Mode?
      • 7. Can I display the time, weather, or news information along with the Ambient Mode?
      • 8. How do I customize the display time for Ambient Mode or Art Mode?
      • 9. My Samsung TV doesn’t have Ambient Mode or Art Mode. Are there any alternatives?
      • 10. How do I subscribe to the Art Store on The Frame TV?
      • 11. Can I control Ambient Mode or Art Mode using voice commands?
      • 12. How do I prevent burn-in or image retention when displaying static images for extended periods?

How to Change the Screensaver on a Samsung TV: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re ready to ditch that default screensaver on your Samsung TV and spice things up a bit? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s cut to the chase: Changing the screensaver on a Samsung TV isn’t always straightforward, as the term “screensaver” is a bit of a misnomer in the modern TV landscape. What you’re likely looking for is how to customize the ambient mode or the art mode, which act as modern equivalents. The actual process depends heavily on the model and year of your Samsung TV. Here’s a general guide, followed by specific instructions for different approaches:

  1. Accessing Ambient Mode/Art Mode:

    • On many newer Samsung TVs, you can activate Ambient Mode by pressing the Ambient Mode button (often a dedicated button with a sun or picture frame icon) on your remote. If there’s no dedicated button, try a long press on the Power button or the Source button.
    • For Art Mode (found on The Frame TVs), press the Power button once to enter Art Mode when the TV is “off.”
  2. Navigating the Interface:

    • Once in Ambient Mode or Art Mode, you’ll typically see a menu with various options. Use the directional pad on your remote to navigate.
    • Look for settings related to displaying images, artwork, information, or patterns. The exact wording will vary.
  3. Customization Options:

    • Pre-loaded Content: Samsung usually offers a selection of pre-loaded images, patterns, and information widgets (like weather, time, and news).
    • Your Own Photos: This is where it gets interesting! Most modern Samsung TVs allow you to display your own photos. You’ll typically need to use the Samsung SmartThings app on your smartphone or a USB drive to transfer the images to your TV.
    • Art Store (The Frame TVs): If you have The Frame TV, you can subscribe to the Art Store for access to a vast library of artwork.
  4. Settings to Consider:

    • Display Time: How long before the Ambient Mode/Art Mode activates.
    • Brightness: Adjust the brightness to suit your room lighting.
    • Color Tone: Fine-tune the colors to match your preference.
    • Image Display Settings: Choose how the images are displayed (e.g., zoomed, cropped, letterboxed).
  5. Specific Instructions (Vary by Model): Since the interface changes frequently, consult your TV’s user manual or the Samsung support website for precise instructions tailored to your specific model. Search for terms like “Ambient Mode,” “Art Mode,” or “Screensaver” in the manual or on the website’s search bar.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Cannot Find Ambient Mode/Art Mode: Your TV may not have these features. Check your TV’s specifications online. Older models often lacked this functionality.
  • Photos Not Displaying: Ensure your photos are in a compatible format (JPEG, PNG). Check the size limitations specified in the TV’s manual.
  • SmartThings App Issues: Make sure your TV and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that you are logged in with your Samsung account.
  • USB Drive Not Recognized: Use a USB drive formatted in FAT32 or exFAT.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions that delve deeper into customizing your Samsung TV’s display when it’s not actively showing content.

1. What is the difference between “Ambient Mode” and “Art Mode” on Samsung TVs?

Ambient Mode is a feature found on many Samsung QLED and newer TVs. It allows the TV to blend into its surroundings by displaying decorative content, information (like weather and news), or even mimicking the wall pattern behind it. Art Mode, specifically found on The Frame TVs, transforms the TV into a piece of art when it’s not in use, showcasing paintings, photographs, or your own images. Art Mode often includes options for displaying the artwork with a simulated matte border, further enhancing the illusion of a real framed piece.

2. Can I use my own photos as screensavers on any Samsung TV?

While not all Samsung TVs technically have a “screensaver” setting, most modern models with Ambient Mode or Art Mode allow you to display your own photos. The method for uploading photos varies. Some TVs support direct uploads via the Samsung SmartThings app, while others require you to transfer the photos to a USB drive and then connect the drive to the TV. Check your TV’s user manual for specific instructions.

3. How do I upload photos to my Samsung TV using the SmartThings app?

First, ensure your Samsung TV and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that you are logged into the same Samsung account on both devices. Open the SmartThings app, select your TV, and then look for an option like “Ambient Mode Settings” or a similar menu. Within that menu, you should find an option to “Add Photos” or “Upload Images.” Follow the on-screen prompts to select the photos from your phone’s gallery and upload them to your TV.

4. What image formats are supported for displaying photos on Samsung TVs?

Generally, Samsung TVs support common image formats like JPEG (.jpg) and PNG (.png). Some models may also support other formats, but these are the most widely compatible. Consult your TV’s user manual for a definitive list of supported formats.

5. Is there a maximum resolution or file size for the photos I can use?

Yes, there are usually limitations. Extremely high-resolution photos might not display correctly or could cause performance issues. Similarly, very large file sizes can slow down the uploading and display process. Check your TV’s user manual or the Samsung support website for the recommended resolution and file size limits for displaying photos.

6. How do I adjust the brightness and color tone of Ambient Mode or Art Mode?

Within the Ambient Mode or Art Mode settings menu, you should find options to adjust the brightness and color tone. These settings allow you to fine-tune the display to match the ambient lighting in your room and your personal preferences. Experiment with different settings to find the optimal balance for your viewing environment.

7. Can I display the time, weather, or news information along with the Ambient Mode?

Yes, many Samsung TVs with Ambient Mode offer the option to display information widgets like the time, weather forecast, news headlines, and even calendar appointments. You can typically customize which widgets are displayed and their placement on the screen within the Ambient Mode settings menu.

8. How do I customize the display time for Ambient Mode or Art Mode?

The display time setting determines how long the TV will remain inactive before automatically switching to Ambient Mode or Art Mode. You can usually find this setting within the general Ambient Mode or Art Mode settings menu. Choose a time that suits your viewing habits and energy-saving preferences.

9. My Samsung TV doesn’t have Ambient Mode or Art Mode. Are there any alternatives?

If your Samsung TV doesn’t have Ambient Mode or Art Mode, you might be limited to the default screensaver options provided by the TV’s operating system. However, some third-party apps available in the Samsung app store might offer alternative screensaver functionalities. Explore the app store to see if any apps meet your needs. Another option is to connect an external device, like a streaming stick or a computer, that offers customizable screensaver options.

10. How do I subscribe to the Art Store on The Frame TV?

To subscribe to the Art Store on The Frame TV, navigate to the Art Store within the TV’s interface. You’ll typically find a subscription option with details about the pricing and terms. You may need to create a Samsung account or link an existing one to your TV to complete the subscription process.

11. Can I control Ambient Mode or Art Mode using voice commands?

Yes, many newer Samsung TVs support voice control through Bixby (Samsung’s voice assistant) or other compatible voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. You can use voice commands to activate Ambient Mode or Art Mode, change the displayed content, or adjust settings like brightness. Consult your TV’s manual for specific voice command options.

12. How do I prevent burn-in or image retention when displaying static images for extended periods?

While modern TVs are less susceptible to burn-in than older technologies, it’s still a good practice to take precautions when displaying static images for long durations. To minimize the risk of burn-in or image retention:

  • Avoid displaying the same static image for excessively long periods.
  • Vary the content regularly.
  • Reduce the brightness of the screen when displaying static images.
  • Utilize features like pixel shift (if available) to subtly move the image over time.

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