Older devices (Smart TVs, older phones, even some appliances) are getting AI features through updates.
5 min · Reviewed 2026
The big idea
AI is being added to old devices through software updates. Your smart TV, old iPad, even some refrigerators get smarter over time without you buying new ones.
Some examples
Smart TVs get new AI features (better recommendations, voice control).
Old phones get AI keyboard improvements.
Some new fridges suggest meals based on what is inside.
Even washing machines now use AI to choose cycles.
Try it!
Here's why "AI Is Even on Older Tech Now" matters: Learning about AI is one of the most important skills you can build for the future! Older devices (Smart TVs, older phones, even some appliances) are getting AI features through updates — and knowing how to apply this gives you a concrete advantage.
Learn what "AI everywhere" means and why it's important
Learn what "updates" means and why it's important
Learn what "smart devices" means and why it's important
Find out more about AI Is Even on Older Tech Now by asking an AI a question about it
Talk to a grown-up about what you learned
Write down one new thing you learned today
End-of-lesson check
15 questions · take it digitally for instant feedback at tendril.neural-forge.io/learn/quiz/end-explorers-tools-AI-on-old-tech-now
If your tablet is three years old and suddenly starts suggesting words as you type, what most likely happened?
A software update added AI features to the keyboard
The tablet's battery was replaced with a smarter one
The screen was upgraded to a touch-sensitive version
The tablet was connected to a new wireless network
Which of these statements best describes how AI gets onto older devices?
AI comes pre-installed when you buy a device and never changes
AI is added through downloadable software updates
AI only works on devices made after 2020
AI requires buying a new device each year
A smart TV you bought two years ago now gives better show recommendations than before. What is the most likely reason?
You bought a new remote control
The TV manufacturer added AI recommendation features through an update
The TV's screen resolution was automatically improved
You connected a new gaming console to the TV
Which appliance was mentioned in the lesson as using AI to suggest meals based on its contents?
Refrigerator
Dishwasher
Microwave oven
Washing machine
What does a washing machine with AI most likely do differently from a regular washing machine?
It can connect to the internet to order detergent automatically
It can fold your clothes after washing
It uses sensors to choose the best wash cycle for your clothes
It plays music while washing
What does the phrase 'AI everywhere' mean as used in the lesson?
AI is becoming common in many everyday devices and places
AI will replace all human workers soon
AI can only be used in computer laboratories
AI is only found in expensive robot toys
Your parent's old phone from 2018 can now use voice control to send messages. How is this possible?
The phone's screen was replaced with a larger one
A software update added AI voice features
The battery was upgraded to a newer model
The phone's physical buttons were replaced
Which statement best explains why you don't always need to buy a new device to get AI features?
AI features only work on brand new devices
AI features are illegal on older devices
Old devices automatically become new after one year
Manufacturers can add AI through software updates to existing devices
The lesson mentions that some fridges can suggest meals. What information does the fridge need to make these suggestions?
What food is inside the fridge
The current weather
Your daily schedule
Your favorite TV shows
What type of AI feature might an old phone get through an update, as mentioned in the lesson?
A physical keyboard
Longer battery life
AI keyboard improvements
Better camera filters
When the lesson calls AI 'background tech,' what does it mean?
AI only works when the device is turned off
AI is hidden inside devices and works automatically without you noticing
AI requires you to use it behind a computer screen
AI can only be used in the background of phone apps
Which of these is an example of AI making a device 'smarter' over time?
A speaker learns your music preferences and suggests new songs
A phone screen gets brighter as it gets older
A TV remote lasts longer with use
A tablet gets heavier as software is added
Which device was NOT given as an example in the lesson of something that can get AI features?
Smart TV
Kitchen blender
Refrigerator
Old phone
What must be true about a device for it to receive new AI features through an update?
It must have a color screen
It must be less than one year old
It must be able to connect to the internet
It must be made by an American company
Based on the lesson, what is a key takeaway about AI and older devices?
AI only works on the newest devices
Older devices can gain AI features through software updates