For the convenience of watching TV, especially TV programs that are broadcast in real time, TV manufacturers have come up with a software feature to record TV programs for later viewing or pause viewing, the so-called Time shift function.
Since recording TV programs is potentially dangerous because it can facilitate unauthorized video copying, this feature is not available in all countries, for example, TimeShift does not work in the United States and Canada and does not work in some European countries. In general, if the legislation prohibits it or this issue is not regulated, which may lead to lawsuits, this feature can be deactivated at the OS level of your TV and will not be available for activation.
Protection and requirements for recording media
When it comes to recording TV programs, manufacturers take measures to prevent unauthorized copying. As a result, modern televisions self-format connected memory disks and also provide video encoding, i.e. copy protection through digital rights management (DRM). While the encryption process is not overly complicated, it effectively ensures that the recorded video can only be viewed on the TV on which it was recorded and restricts playback on another TV or computer.
Typically, modern televisions do not have limitations on storage capacity; however, they may impose restrictions on the number of recorded files. For instance, Samsung TVs can accommodate a maximum of 8,000 files across all folders on a disk, and there is a limit of 1,000 files per folder. Files exceeding these limits will not be displayed.
Additionally, it’s important to note that RAID disks are not supported, as the TV’s operating system is unable to recognize these virtual disks. USB drives also may encounter compatibility issues, primarily due to difficulties in recognizing the USB flash drive controller.
Finally, there is a constraint on the duration of continuous recording; for example, Samsung TVs can record continuously for a maximum of 12 hours.
How to works Timeshift
Timeshift is a feature that allows viewers to pause, rewind and resume live TV so they don’t miss any important moments. This feature is exclusive to over-the-air and cable television.
When you tune in to a channel, the program plays in real time. By activating the Timeshift feature – most often by pressing and holding the stop/pause button – the TV begins recording the broadcast to a connected USB drive or hard disk. This allows viewers to rewind and review previous content while the recording continues in the background.
In addition, Timeshift allows users to schedule recordings in advance, allowing them to record specific programs for later viewing at a convenient time.
During a Chat on Samsung.com I was told Timeshift is disabled in the USA.