Getting a new TV can be an exciting purchase. However, when you first turn on your TV, you may notice it is stuck in “store mode.” Store mode plays demo content on a loop and disables certain features so televisions can be displayed in retail stores. If your new TV is stuck in store mode, don’t worry – here are some quick tips to get your TV operational for home use.
What is store mode?
Store mode, also known as retail mode or demo mode, is a special setting on televisions that allows them to run demos and sample content on a continuous loop. This mode is intended for retail displays in electronic stores so customers can view sample images, videos, and features.
When in store mode, most of the TV’s smart capabilities and inputs are disabled. This prevents customers from accessing apps and changing settings on the display models. Store mode also typically turns features like motion smoothing and sharpness up to very high levels to make the picture look more striking under bright retail lighting.
Why is my new TV stuck in store mode?
If you just unboxed your TV and it’s playing weird demo content, chances are it’s still in store mode. Many TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio ship from the factory in store mode. Retailers are supposed to switch the units out of this mode before sale, but this doesn’t always happen.
Getting a TV stuck in store mode is common if you purchased a floor model, open box, or refurbished unit. Since these sets have been used for display purposes already, they may still be running the in-store demos unless the retailer updated them.
How can I get my TV out of store mode?
Here are some quick troubleshooting steps you can try to exit store mode on your TV:
Restart your TV
First, unplug the TV from power for at least 60 seconds, then plug it back in. This will restart the TV and allow it to exit store mode if the retailer forgot to disable the setting. Wait for the TV to fully turn back on and see if the demo content is still playing.
Access the TV’s secret menu
Most smart TVs have a hidden service or installation menu that lets you toggle store mode on and off. To access it:
- Go to the regular settings menu for your TV brand (on a Sony, look for Settings or a gear icon)
- Locate an option like “Service Menu,” “Installation Menu,” or “Factory Settings”
- Enter the default passcode, which is usually 0000 or 1234
Now look for a “Store Demo” or “Retail Mode” option and switch it Off or Disable. This should take the TV out of store mode.
Perform a factory reset
If you can’t find a dedicated store mode toggle, performing a factory reset on your TV should disable the retail mode setting. Just be aware this will erase all of your custom settings!
On most brands, you can reset from the Installation or Service menu. Otherwise, look for a “Reset to Factory Defaults” option in your main settings menu.
Call the manufacturer
If none of the above options work, contact the TV manufacturer (Sony, Samsung, etc). Explain you just bought a new TV stuck in store mode. They should be able to walk you through the proper exit procedure.
What settings should I check after exiting store mode?
After you successfully switch your TV out of retail mode, you may need to adjust some settings that were customized for in-store display:
- Brightness – Turn this down from max to around 50. Store mode sets brightness high for brightly lit stores.
- Contrast – Similarly, lower contrast to 50 or so. Extreme contrast makes the image pop more.
- Color – Store mode typically maxes color out. Set to a normal level.
- Sharpness – Lower sharpness way down or disable it for a more natural look.
- Motion settings – Turn off motion smoothing or set to a low level.
- Audio mode – Switch audio from “Store” mode to a normal preset.
Make other adjustments as needed till the picture looks natural. Then run through the TV setup and link services like Netflix to start enjoying your new TV!
Conclusion
Getting stuck in store mode is a common hassle for new TV owners. Thankfully, it’s usually an easy fix – just restart the TV, access the service menu, or factory reset to disable the retail mode setting. Then adjust the exaggerated picture settings to enjoy your new home theater display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my new TV turn on?
If your new TV won’t turn on, here are some things to check:
- Make sure the TV is plugged into a working electrical outlet. Verify the outlet has power by plugging in another device.
- Ensure the power cord is securely inserted into the TV and outlet. Try unplugging and firmly reinserting the cord.
- Check that the remote has fresh batteries installed correctly. Try replacing the batteries.
- Press the power button on the TV itself to rule out a remote issue.
- If the TV still won’t start up, it likely requires professional service or replacement.
My new TV has no sound, how do I fix it?
If your new TV has no audio, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check that the TV volume is turned up and not muted. Try using the remote’s volume controls.
- Press the mute button on the remote to ensure mute is disabled.
- Check external cables connecting your devices and speakers. Make sure all connections are snug.
- Try alternate audio sources like streaming content to isolate the issue.
- Reset the TV audio settings to factory defaults.
- If the TV still shows video but no sound, contact customer support for further help.
Why is my new TV picture distorted or blurry?
If your new TV has picture quality issues like blurring, distortion, or discoloration, try these tips:
- Make sure any plastic film or packaging has been removed from the screen.
- Try adjusting your HDMI and component connections to get a better signal.
- Reset the TV picture settings to factory default.
- Check for loose, damaged, or corroded cables connecting devices.
- Try viewing content from another source like a streaming app.
- If the problem persists, schedule a service appointment or contact the retailer.
How do I set up streaming apps on my new smart TV?
Here are the general steps to set up popular streaming apps on a new smart TV:
- Connect your TV to the internet via Wi-Fi or ethernet.
- On the smart TV platform, look for an “App Store” icon or menu.
- Open the app store and select the app you want to install. For example, Netflix or Hulu.
- Create an account or sign-in if you already have an account.
- Accept app permissions and activate your account.
- The app icon will now appear on your TV’s home screen for quick access.
- Launch the app to browse content and start streaming!
How do I download apps and games on my Android TV?
Here are the steps to download apps on an Android smart TV:
- Navigate to the Play Store app on your Android TV.
- Browse or search for the app you want and select it.
- Choose “Install” to download the app to your TV.
- Some apps require an account or login. Sign up or sign in if prompted.
- Follow any additional on-screen instructions to finish installing.
- Once installed, you can access the app from your Android TV’s home screen.
- Important: Use the TV remote, not touch, when navigating the Play Store interface.
Why is my new TV remote not working?
If your new TV’s remote is unresponsive, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check that there are fresh batteries installed correctly in the remote.
- Make sure there are no obstructions between the remote and TV’s IR sensor.
- Try using the remote from a closer distance or different angle.
- On smart remotes, make sure it is paired correctly with the TV.
- Turn off nearby fluorescent lights which can cause interference.
- Reset the remote by removing batteries for 60 seconds.
- If issues persist, you may need a replacement remote.
Troubleshooting Store Mode by TV Brand
Samsung Store Mode
On Samsung TVs, enter the following on your remote to access the service menu:
Menu > Mute > 1 > 8 > 2 > Power
Now navigate to “DEMO Mode” and disable it. This will exit Samsung’s retail mode.
LG Store Mode
For LG TVs, enter the installation menu using:
Settings > Menu > 0473
Find the “Mode Setting” submenu and change from Store Demo to Home Use. This will take LG TVs out of retail mode.
Sony Store Mode
On Sony Bravia TVs, enter service mode using:
Menu > Power > Down 5 sec > Back 3 sec > Left 2 sec > Right 1 sec
Select “Mode Setting” and change from Store to Home. Be sure to confirm Yes to exit Sony retail mode.
Vizio Store Mode
For Vizio TVs, enter the installation menu with:
Menu > Menu > Down 3X > Up 2X > Enter
Toggle “Demo Mode” Off and confirm by selecting “Exit”. This will disable Vizio store mode.
TCL Store Mode
On TCL Roku TVs, enter the secret service menu with:
Home x5, Up x1, Rewind x2, Fast Forward x2
Go to “Retail Mode” and turn it Off. Press Home to exit TCL store demo mode.
Conclusion
Getting trapped in store mode is a common hassle for new TV owners. But thankfully, the fix is relatively simple on most models – just access the hidden service menu and toggle the retail setting off. Then optimize your picture settings for the home and start enjoying your new big screen TV!
