New versions of Firmware may be released periodically during the life of a device. This activity is typically referred to as a Firmware Update. A Firmware Update can occur if new functionality is introduced for the device or to correct an issue the device might be experiencing. If the device is Smart and is connected to the internet, it can receive Firmware Updates whenever those Updates are pushed to the device.
VIZIO Smart TVs receive Firmware Updates automatically. When a VIZIO Smart TV connects to the internet, information is sent from the VIZIO Smart TV to the Firmware servers. If the Firmware in the TV is up-to-date, nothing further takes place. If a Firmware Update is available for the TV, the Update is queued up and sent to the TV when the TV is powered off. VIZIO does not offer Firmware Updates upon request; you simply have to connect your VIZIO Smart TV to the internet.
Since Firmware Updates are pushed to the TV when it is in a powered off state, no Firmware Updates will be pushed while the TV is on. If the TV is powered on while it is receiving a Firmware Update, it will not harm the TV, but the Firmware Update will stop. The Firmware Update will then go back into the queue until the TV is powered off at which point it will start the Firmware Update process over.
For information on firmware updates for Vizio HDTV's, please click on the link below and search the model number to open the Firmware Information Article for the customer's specific model.