Hisense’s push into the custom integration channel continues with the release of a VIDAA OS driver for Control4, developed in collaboration with Australian-based middleware-specialist Chowmainsoft.
According to Hisense, the driver allows users to control core functions of Hisense VIDAA TVs via IP-based communication through the Control4 platform. This includes control over power, volume, input switching, transport keys and channel presets.
The driver also provides direct‑launch shortcuts to Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+ and more—all with real‑time status feedback to the touch panel or app through Control4.
The launch of the new driver follows a string of ecosystem moves from Hisense that saw integration with both Google Home API integration through the ConnectLife app, as well as a module for URC Total control. Taken together, the company appears to be growing out the value proposition of its TVs beyond the traditional presentation of it being an affordable big screen for projects.
Hisense’s decision to develop the driver for Control4 also coincides with recent data gathered by the CE Pro 100 Brand Analysis, which saw Control4 as the installed base leader in the control category in North America. Hisense itself has also seen a surge in popularity recently among homeowners, as it has risen to become one of the top TV brands in the U.S. in terms of market share this year.
Earlier this year, Hisense debuted its 2025 ULED lineup with Mini‑LED backlighting, 165 Hz gaming modes, and screen sizes up to 100 inches. The company also announced it would be making its CanvasTV–a direct competitor to Samsung’s The Frame art TV–bigger to accommodate public taste in larger screen sizes.
Frequent readers of CE Pro may also recognize the name of Chowmainsoft following the debut of the company’s control driver marketplace last August ahead of CEDIA Expo 2024. The storefront currently hosts over 350+ drivers with modules for ELK Security, Lutron and Hisense being the latest additions. The new VIDAA OS driver will be available starting today on Chowmainsoft’s marketplace.
