How to Simplify an Overcomplicated Streaming Setup

Streaming setups tend to grow more complicated over time — an extra device here, a leftover cable there — until it's harder to use than it needs to be.

Start with an inventory

List every device connected to your TV and what it's actually used for. Anything unused or redundant is a candidate to remove.

Consolidate where you can

If two separate devices cover overlapping apps, keeping just the better-performing one usually simplifies things without losing functionality — our guide on signs it's time to upgrade your streaming device can help decide which one to keep.

Tidy up the app side too

Removing unused apps and organizing what's left, as covered in our guide on organizing apps on a home screen, finishes the job.

Simplify the remote situation

Fewer devices usually means fewer remotes — or consider consolidating with a universal remote if you're keeping more than one.