SmartStick SS-V2-K Kids TV Streaming Media Player Stick

Not happy with this at all!

The KidStick device is a handy little piece of technology that can transform any TV with an HDMI input into a smart TV. It uses the Android operating system, so it will be familiar to most. The unit itself is easy to connect and has a discrete shape and size. Once the device is set up, it's relatively easy to use. It has a simple learning universal remote control that is included.As far as function, it can download and run just about any of your favorite apps from the Google Play Store. We use this primarily for streaming video, but anything you can download can technically run. It has settings for any output that your TV will accept, and does a good job of streaming video. The initial setup for this device was a little aggravating. The included remote has a mouse mode that works much like a Wii controller. This mode must be used to access some functionality and is not very intuitive. It is very sensitive and when you press the button to make your selection the cursor moves and you often click on the wrong thing. In addition, the unit lacks proper setup instructions, and the link to the online manual was broken the last time I looked. Through much trial and error, like an entire morning's worth, I was able to get it set up and running. You will need to link this to a Google account to download the streaming video programs, as they are not pre-loaded, only links to their download in the Play Store are. The parental controls are tops. To give General Access to any program, it has to be placed on the KidStick main menu. To do this you must enter a PIN. If you stick with kid-friendly programs and restrictions, there should be little worry that questionable content is accessed.A quick note, I paired this device with a wireless keyboard / trackpad. This made the unit MUCH more easy to use. I would suggest this to anyone who plans to use this item has a primary form of entertainment on a regular basis as an alternative to the included remote. It will eliminate a lot of frustration, particularly in the initial setup of the unit.I received this product in exchange for evaluating its quality and value. That being said I would rate it in the following ways:   Setup 2/10Operating system 8/10Ease of use 6/10AV quality 9/10It's a great device with a lot of excellent features, and once you get used to it, you'll be thrilled with the entertainment options it offers.

I'm so glad that I received this to review because now I don't have to worry about the kids watching something they shouldn't be or buying movies without me knowing while they are in the family room downstairs. With 5 grandkids, they can get into trouble on the TV without parental controls. The SmartStick was easy to hookup and I control the kids movies with my 4 digit code. They can watch programs that I put on their specifically for their ages and nothing else. But it's also adult friendly once I put in my code. Worth the money.