📶 [Tech Review] MyPhone Digital TV Dongle Isn’t Working on My Samsung A5 – Is It Worth It?

If you’re interested in turning your smartphone into a digital TV, the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle might have caught your attention. This small, affordable accessory—priced at just PHP 499—claims to give you digital TV on your phone without the need for internet or data connection. In this review, we’ll go over my recent experience testing this dongle on my Samsung Galaxy A5 and see if it’s worth buying for your own device. 

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What is the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle?

The MyPhone Digital TV Dongle is a compact device that plugs into your smartphone’s micro-USB or Type-C port, allowing you to watch digital TV broadcasts directly on your phone. It’s designed to work with MyPhone devices but promises compatibility with many other Android smartphones that support OTG (On-The-Go) connections. With no need for WiFi, this dongle seems like an ideal solution for affordable, on-the-go entertainment.

Why I Chose the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle

I was first introduced to the dongle through a YouTube video by Gadget Addict. Seeing how this small device could turn a smartphone into a digital TV got me excited—especially since I have an older Samsung Galaxy A5 that I don’t use as frequently. At PHP 499, the dongle seemed affordable and convenient, so my friend William Pombo and I decided to pick one up at SM Cubao on September 5, 2017.

The Purchase and Initial Impressions

After finding the dongle at a MyPhone store, I was eager to test it out. The store representative mentioned it was a plug-and-play device, and all I would need to do is connect the dongle, install the corresponding app, and I’d be ready to watch TV. However, the experience wasn’t as smooth as I’d hoped.

Testing the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle with My Samsung Galaxy A5

Once I plugged the dongle into my Samsung Galaxy A5, I downloaded the recommended app for TV streaming. We tried to get a signal by moving near an open area, but despite multiple attempts with two different dongles, we couldn’t get it to work. Unfortunately, I hadn’t brought the OTG adapter for my Samsung S8 Plus, so we couldn’t test compatibility with that model either.

Key Takeaway: Compatibility Issues with the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle

Our testing session highlighted an important point: not all smartphones, regardless of model or brand, are compatible with this dongle. If you’re considering buying one, I strongly recommend bringing your phone to a MyPhone store and testing it before making a purchase. Even though it’s a relatively inexpensive accessory, compatibility is a big factor, and the dongle simply may not work with certain phones.

 

Pros and Cons of the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle

Pros:

1. Affordable Price: At PHP 499, this dongle is a cost-effective alternative to traditional or online TV.
2. Portable Entertainment: No need for internet; you can enjoy digital TV anywhere.
3. Simple Installation: Just plug it into your phone, install the app, and start streaming (if compatible).

Cons:

1. Compatibility Issues: The dongle may not work on all devices, even high-end models.
2. Signal Dependency: Strong digital signals are required for smooth streaming.
3. Limited to MyPhone and Select Devices: Optimal use is likely with MyPhone devices; others may face issues. 

Is the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle Worth Buying?

If you own a MyPhone device or a compatible Android phone and want a simple, budget-friendly way to watch digital TV, this dongle could be worth a try. But if you have an older phone or a less common brand, test it out in-store to avoid disappointment.

Final Thoughts: My Experience with the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle

While the idea of turning my Samsung Galaxy A5 into a digital TV was exciting, my actual experience was underwhelming due to compatibility issues. For anyone thinking about buying the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle, remember to bring your device to the store for a test run. This dongle is an affordable and innovative gadget, but only if it works seamlessly with your phone.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried the MyPhone Digital TV Dongle! Did it work for you? Would you recommend it? Let’s share our experiences and help others make informed decisions.