Tizen 7.0

Basic Information

Samsung Tizen 7.0 is an open-source, Linux-based operating system primarily developed by Samsung Electronics and supported by the Linux Foundation. The second milestone (M2) release of Tizen 7.0 was announced in October 2022. Tizen 7.0 is deployed across various smart devices, with a significant focus on Samsung Smart TVs. While Tizen 9.0 M2 (October 2024) represents the latest overall stable version of the Tizen OS, Tizen 7.0 remains relevant for 2023 Samsung TV models, which are receiving upgrades to Tizen 8.0. Samsung has committed to providing up to seven years of OS updates for its 2024 Smart TV models and some 2023 models, indicating an extended support lifecycle. The operating system is open source with proprietary components, licensed under various schemes including GPLv2, LGPL, Apache License 2.0, BSD, and Flora License. Its primary deployment model is embedded systems, particularly Smart TVs, and historically, smartwatches and smartphones.

Technical Requirements

Specific hardware requirements for Tizen 7.0 are largely dependent on the target device, as it is an embedded operating system. For Smart TV implementations, the Tizen 7.0 Compliance Specification outlines various optional hardware capabilities that may necessitate higher processing power or memory. These optional components can include features like cameras, tuners, HDMI inputs, Wi-Fi, audio input devices, USB ports, advanced graphics, and Bluetooth. The OS itself is designed to run on ARM, ARM64, x86, and x86-64 supported platforms. Tizen 7.0 is engineered to optimize rendering passes and minimize memory usage, even for 3D user interfaces.

Support & Compatibility

Tizen 7.0 is primarily supported on Samsung Smart TVs, specifically 2023 models, which are currently undergoing upgrades to Tizen 8.0. Samsung has announced a commitment to provide up to seven years of OS updates for its 2024 TV models and certain 2023 models, ensuring long-term software support. The platform offers broad compatibility with cross-platform development frameworks, including Web, Flutter, and .NET MAUI, allowing developers to deploy services with minimal effort. A Tizen-Android HAL Adaptation feature enables Tizen to run on Android-supported System-on-Chips (SoCs) by providing an adaptation bridge to the Android Hardware Abstraction Layer. Tizen OS supports various languages for localization. Device-specific drivers are managed through the underlying hardware abstraction layers, with the Tizen-Android HAL adaptation aiding in broader SoC compatibility.

Security Status

Samsung Tizen 7.0 incorporates robust security features, notably through the "Smart TV Security Solution V7.0 for Samsung Knox," which has achieved Common Criteria EAL1 certification. Key security functionalities include System Integrity Monitoring for verifying the integrity of the Tizen OS kernel, blocking the execution of unauthorized Web Apps, and preventing access to phishing sites. It also provides encryption and decryption capabilities for data utilized within Web Apps. As part of the broader Samsung ecosystem, Tizen TVs benefit from the advancements in Samsung Knox Security and One UI 7. One UI 7 introduces the Knox Matrix Dashboard for multi-layered, intelligent threat monitoring across connected Samsung devices, including TVs, and offers an enhanced data protection recovery method with end-to-end encryption for Samsung Cloud data. Authentication methods include Passkeys for Samsung Accounts and biometric authentication for critical security changes. Tizen TV is also Matter certified, enhancing its security within the Smart Home ecosystem. General recommendations emphasize keeping devices updated and utilizing strong authentication methods.

Performance & Benchmarks

Tizen 7.0 features enhancements to its 3D rendering engine and includes a real-time enabled kernel, contributing to improved performance. Reports indicate that Tizen OS generally delivers smooth performance on Samsung Smart TVs. A comprehensive analysis compares Tizen 7.0's performance against previous versions, other System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions, and external media players. While specific benchmark scores for the OS itself are not publicly detailed, its optimization for embedded devices implies a focus on efficient resource utilization. Tizen is often compared with other smart TV platforms like Android TV and webOS, and is generally regarded as one of the better platforms due to its user-friendly interface and robust app support.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback highlights several strengths of Tizen 7.0, particularly in its application on Samsung Smart TVs. Users appreciate its user-friendly layout and strong library of applications. The System-on-Chip (SoC) solution is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for a separate media player device, making it an affordable all-in-one solution for various use cases. Tizen 7.0 is noted for its ability to display full-screen images and text in UHD resolution. Performance is generally described as smooth. However, some feedback, particularly concerning Appspace on SSSP Tizen 6.5 (a predecessor), noted performance issues with certain transitions, limited volume controls for audio/video playback, and restrictions on display orientations. Historically, a common criticism was the lack of long-term OS updates, a concern Samsung is now addressing with its commitment to seven years of updates for newer models. Recommended use cases for Tizen-powered devices include digital signage, room scheduling, kiosks, and enterprise TV applications.

Summary

Samsung Tizen 7.0 is a robust, open-source operating system primarily powering Samsung Smart TVs and various embedded devices. Released in 2022, it offers a stable and evolving platform with continuous updates, including planned upgrades for 2023 TV models to Tizen 8.0. A significant strength is Samsung's commitment to providing up to seven years of OS updates for newer models, addressing a previous user concern regarding long-term software support. The OS is designed for efficient performance on embedded hardware, featuring a refined 3D rendering engine and a real-time kernel. Its compatibility with cross-platform frameworks like Web, Flutter, and .NET MAUI, alongside Tizen-Android HAL Adaptation, enhances its versatility for developers and hardware integration. Security is a core focus, with Common Criteria EAL1 certification for its Knox-based security solution, which includes kernel integrity monitoring, unauthorized app blocking, and data encryption. Recent advancements through One UI 7 further bolster security with features like the Knox Matrix Dashboard, enhanced data protection, and advanced authentication methods. While specific hardware requirements are device-dependent, Tizen 7.0 is optimized for a range of smart devices. User feedback generally praises its user-friendly interface, extensive app ecosystem, and integrated SoC solution, making it a strong contender in the smart TV and digital signage markets. Minor historical performance issues in specific application contexts are being addressed through ongoing development and updates. Overall, Tizen 7.0 presents a secure, feature-rich, and increasingly well-supported operating system for its target deployments.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.