Owners of smart TVs and set-top boxes are often faced with the need to find out the exact model of their device. This is required when searching for specific drivers, installing custom firmware, searching for remote controls, or when contacting technical support. However, manufacturers often hide complete information deep in system menus or use marketing names that differ from the actual technical identifier.
Identification device models is the first step before any serious interference with the system. An error in identification can lead to the installation of incompatible software, which can lead to the failure of the gadget. In this article we will analyze all available methods: from simple inspection of the case to the use of advanced debugging tools.
Regardless of whether you use a full-fledged TV with built-in Android TV or a compact set-top box, the methods of searching for information will be similar, but have their own nuances. We will look at both standard paths through the interface and hidden features available to experienced users.
Searching for information on the case and in the documentation
The most obvious and reliable way to find out the model is by physically examining the device. Manufacturers are required to apply technical markings to the product body. Typically, this data is located on the back of the TV or on the bottom of the set-top box.
Look for a special silver or white sticker. It usually indicates the serial number, production date and, most importantly, model number. It often looks like a combination of letters and numbers, for example SM-AU7000 or X96 Max Plus. Unlike the beautiful name on the box, this code is a unique identifier of the hardware platform.
⚠️ Attention: On some Chinese set-top boxes, the sticker may contain conflicting information or be pasted on top of the original markings. Always check the data with the box if you have one.
If the device is already mounted on the wall or the back panel is difficult to access, find the original packaging or warranty card. The model is clearly stated in the documents, without abbreviations. Also check the user manual: the full name of the series and modification is always indicated on the first or last page.
Take a photo of the sticker on the back of the phone in case it wears off or comes off over time. This will preserve access to the serial number and model.
Identifying the model through the system settings menu
Most modern TVs and set-top boxes allow you to view information about the device directly in the interface. The path to this data may differ depending on the manufacturer's shell (MIUI TV, Google TV, pure Android).
The standard algorithm of actions is as follows:
- 🔍 Go to the main menu and find the section
Settings(gear icon). - 📺 Go to subsection
About TV,SystemorAbout device. - ℹ️ Find the line Model or Model number.
- 📝 Write down the specified values, including the software build version.
In some cases, especially on devices with a shell from Xiaomi or Realme, the full model may be hidden. Often only the commercial name of the series is displayed there. To see the technical code, try quickly pressing the button OK on the remote control 5-7 times in this menu. This action sometimes opens an extended engineering menu with detailed specifications.
| Manufacturer | Menu path | Where to look for model |
|---|---|---|
| Sony | Settings → About TV | String "Model" |
| Xiaomi | Settings → About device | Section "Version" (click OK) |
| Nvidia | Settings → Device → About us | Field "Model" |
| Philips | Settings → Device settings | System information |
Pay attention to the version Android. To install some applications, not only the device model is required, but also a minimum version of the operating system. This information is usually located in the same section as the model.
Using third-party applications for diagnostics
If the built-in menus do not provide a complete picture, specialized utilities from the Google Play store come to the rescue. They read data directly from system files and display it in a convenient form.
One of the most popular tools is the application AIDA64 or Device Info HW. After installation and launch, the app will scan the hardware. You are interested in the tab Device or System. The exact model code, processor manufacturer and amount of RAM will be indicated there.
Another useful tool is TV App Repo or specialized launchers. They often display the model in the corner of the screen or in the settings of the launcher itself. This is especially true for older consoles, where the standard menu may be truncated.
⚠️ Attention: Download diagnostic utilities only from the official Google Play store. Third-party APK files may contain malicious code that can steal your data.
The advantage of software methods is that they show not only the name, but also the real characteristics of the hardware. This helps to identify a fake when a cheap set-top box is sold under the guise of a flagship model with inflated parameters.
Why may the characteristics in applications differ from those declared?
Some manufacturers flash devices so that they display false information about the processor and memory in standard Android menus. Specialized utilities like Device Info HW can bypass these software stubs and read the real chip IDs.
Find out the model through developer mode and ADB
For advanced users who need maximum accuracy, there is a connection method via USB or network debugging. This method allows you to obtain “raw” data from the system, which cannot be faked through the interface.
First you need to activate the developer mode. To do this, go to Settings → About TV and click 7 times on the item Build number. After the message “You have become a developer” appears, return to the main settings menu and find the new section For developers.
Enable the option USB Debugging or Network Debugging. Now you can connect your device to your computer. If you have the Android SDK Platform Tools installed, run the following command in the terminal:
adb shell getprop ro.product.modelThis command will display the exact technical name of the model. To obtain more complete information, including the brand and version of Android, use the command:
adb shell getprop | grep "ro.product"This method is indispensable if the device interface freezes or does not display information correctly. It works at the system kernel level, providing reliable data about the firmware and hardware.
☑️ Preparing to connect via ADB
Analysis of information about Wi-Fi and network
Sometimes you can find out the device model indirectly, by seeing how it is presented online. When you connect a TV to a router, it broadcasts its Hostname, which often contains the model code.
Go to the settings of your router through a browser on your computer or smartphone. Go to the connected clients section or DHCP device list. Find your TV in the list. Instead of the abstract “Android”, it may say something like MXQ-Pro-4K or BRAVIA-KD55.
You can also use network scanners for a smartphone, for example, an application Fing. It will show all devices on the local network and try to determine their type and manufacturer. Although this method does not always provide 100% accuracy, it helps to quickly find your way if the TV remote control is lost and it is impossible to enter the menu.
Pay attention to MAC address devices. The first three pairs of characters (OUI) indicate the manufacturer of the network chip. This will not give the exact model of the TV, but it will allow you to narrow the search for a brand, especially for little-known Chinese manufacturers.
⚠️ Attention: The interfaces of routers from different manufacturers are very different. If you cannot find a list of clients, refer to your router's manual or search for your router model on the Internet.
What to do if the model is not detected
In rare cases, the device may not display the model in any of the menus, and the sticker on the case is missing or unreadable. This often happens with devices purchased on the secondary market or brought from other regions.
In such a situation, try resetting the device to factory settings. When booting for the first time after a reset, some systems display a welcome screen with full model and regional information. However, remember that this step will delete all your data and installed applications.
If all else fails, you can try disassembling the case (if it is a set-top box) and look at the markings on the motherboard itself. Often there is a board code on it, by which you can find the exact specification and analogues on the Internet.
The most reliable way to find out the model is a combination of a physical sticker on the case and checking through ADB commands. app menus may be changed by the manufacturer.
Remember that accurate knowledge of the model is critical when searching for remote controls. Universal remotes often require entering a code that is tied to a specific line of devices. An error in one digit can make the remote control useless.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I find out the model of a turned off TV?
Yes, only by the physical sticker on the back of the case or by the documentation (box, warranty card). Software methods require turning on the device.
Why is one name written in the settings, but another on the website?
Manufacturers often use different names for the same hardware in different sales regions. The technical model (on the sticker) is always the priority when searching for firmware.
Does the Android version affect the model determination?
No, the model is a hardware characteristic. However, the Android version is important for application compatibility. You can find out the version in the same “About device” menu.
Is it safe to enable developer mode to check the model?
Yes, enabling developer mode itself is safe. The only danger is changing the settings inside this menu if you are not sure of their purpose.
How to find the model if the TV screen is black?
If the TV turns on (there is sound or an indicator), try connecting a keyboard or mouse and blindly navigate through the settings, or use methods through the network (router). If the screen does not work at all, just a sticker on the case.