Your next smart TV might come with a lot more Walmart inside

[phillynews215]

Credit: Walmart

• Walmart has officially completed its acquisition of Vizio, including its SmartCast operating system.
• The $2.3 billion deal gives Walmart full ownership of Vizio’s TV brand and its ad business.
• Walmart aims to leverage this acquisition to enhance its advertising business and create new ways to reach customers.

Walmart just pulled off a big move that could change how you shop, stream, and maybe even watch ads. The retail giant has officially acquired Vizio, the popular TV brand, along with its SmartCast operating system, in a deal worth about $2.3 billion. First announced back in February, the deal has finally been sealed, marking a major step in Walmart’s mission to expand beyond its aisles and into your living room.

What’s in it for Walmart

Walmart already sells its budget-friendly Onn TVs and streaming devices, but buying Vizio is about turning those screens into a direct line to customers. Vizio’s SmartCast platform isn’t just a way to stream shows — it’s a goldmine for advertising. With over 19 million active accounts (representing a 400% growth since 2018), SmartCast offers free streaming content supported by ads, and it’s built an advertising business that’s booming.




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