Recently, I’ve been diving into the world of MQTT control for my Hisense U6G Android TV, and I must say, it’s been an exciting journey! 
I came across some fantastic resources and configurations that have allowed me to integrate my TV seamlessly into my smart home ecosystem. Let me share my experience and some tips that might help others looking to do the same.
First off, I wanted to highlight the work of ReDaLeRt, whose GitHub repository provided the foundation for my setup. It was incredible to see how much of the configuration was already laid out, and I only had to tweak a few parts to get everything working smoothly with my Home Assistant setup. The key was understanding the MQTT topics and how they interact with the TV’s controls.
One thing I found particularly useful was the ability to create custom inputs for different HDMI sources. Whether it’s streaming services, gaming consoles, or just good old cable TV, having a dedicated button for each source made navigating my TV setup a breeze. It’s all about making the experience as seamless as possible, right?
I also explored the idea of setting up automation based on motion detection. For instance, if I’m in the living room and the TV isn’t on, a motion sensor can trigger the TV to turn on and switch to my favorite streaming source. It’s these small automations that really make a smart home feel like a smart home!
Another aspect I experimented with was volume control. Using MQTT, I was able to integrate the TV’s volume with my existing Sonos system, allowing me to control everything from a single interface. It’s the little details like this that make the whole system feel cohesive.
If you’re looking to try this out yourself, I’d recommend starting with the basics—setting up a static IP for your TV, installing the necessary MQTT broker add-ons, and familiarizing yourself with the RemoteNow app. From there, you can gradually add more complex automations as you become more comfortable with the setup.
Overall, this project has been a fantastic way to enhance my home entertainment experience. It’s not just about having the latest gadgets; it’s about how they work together to create a more convenient and enjoyable environment. If you’re curious about MQTT control for your TV, I highly encourage you to give it a shot! The learning curve might seem steep at first, but the payoff is well worth it.
Happy tinkering! 