When you connect a new device to a 'smart' tv, you must pay homage to the manufacturer with a ritualistic dance. Plugging and unplugging the device. Turning them on and off in the correct sequence like entering a konami code.
Every time you want to switch devices, the tv must scan for them. And god forbid you lose power, or unplug something. You are granted the delight experience of doing it all over again.
I have fond memories of the days of just plugging something in, and pressing the input button. Instant gratification. It was a simpler time.
What is some other tech that used to be better?
Doorbells. I had to replace a relative's doorbell recently and the old one that lasted 60 years was built 10x better than the incredibly cheap model that all the hardware stores carry.
The options are either a cheapo doorbell that has an LED in it for no reason, a Ring surveillance doorbell, or a very expensive reproduction doorbell sold on some random website.