Imagine transforming your TV from a mere entertainment device into a personal music tutor. That’s exactly what’s happening for some Samsung TV owners, thanks to the arrival of Fender Play—but there’s a catch. While this exciting development promises to bring guitar, bass, and ukulele lessons right into your living room, not every Tizen-powered TV will get in on the action. And this is the part most people miss: despite Tizen being used in various brands, Fender Play is staying exclusive to Samsung TVs, leaving others out in the cold.
Learning to play an instrument can feel daunting, but having the right tools—or even a virtual guide—can make the journey far less intimidating. We’ve all turned to YouTube or TikTok for quick tips, but Fender Play takes it a step further. For years, its mobile app has offered structured lessons, song tutorials, and even a feedback mode using your phone’s microphone to help you improve. But here’s where it gets controversial: the TV version of Fender Play won’t include this microphone feedback feature, a decision confirmed by Samsung that’s sure to spark debate among aspiring musicians.
Cliff Kim, Vice President of Growth Strategy for Digital Products at Fender, expressed excitement about the partnership: ‘We’re thrilled to bring Fender Play’s immersive learning experience to Samsung TV users, empowering guitar enthusiasts to elevate their skills.’ He emphasized Fender’s global mission to educate and inspire musicians, adding, ‘This collaboration allows music lovers to learn, practice, and play with our high-quality, interactive lessons directly on their Samsung TV.’
For Australians, the app is set to roll out on both last year’s and this year’s Samsung TV models later in the year. However, pricing remains a mystery. Fender Play typically costs around $20 per month or $150 annually in the U.S., but Samsung Australia reps have yet to confirm local rates. Could this mean special deals are on the horizon? Only time will tell.
Here’s the bold question for you: Is Fender Play’s exclusivity to Samsung TVs a game-changer for music education, or does it limit accessibility for potential learners? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this controversial move!
