Lobbytv.co Review

Based on checking the website, Lobbytv.co appears to be a digital signage solution that allows businesses to transform any TV into a customizable digital display.

While the platform boasts features like drag-and-drop content publishing, AI-powered news feeds, and scalability, a thorough review reveals some areas where it falls short compared to more established and transparent digital signage providers.

The lack of readily available pricing information and comprehensive support details on the homepage raises immediate concerns for potential users seeking a straightforward, ethical business solution.

Here’s an overall review summary for Lobbytv.co:

Overall Recommendation: Not recommended without further investigation due to lack of transparent pricing and support details on the homepage.
Key Features Highlighted: Dynamic messaging, drag-and-drop publisher, Google Slides/PowerPoint integration, cloud-based platform, AI-powered news engine, real-time updates, unlimited users/campaigns per screen pricing.
Target Industries: Banks, Restaurants & Bars, Education.
Ease of Use: App download, media player plug-in, CMS content upload, publish to TV.
Pricing Transparency: Not explicitly available on the homepage.
Support & Reliability Claims: 24/7 reliability claimed, but specific support channels and response times are not detailed.
Ethical Considerations from an Islamic perspective: The “RESTAURANTS & BARS” industry focus is a notable point of concern, as “bars” often involve the serving of alcohol, which is impermissible in Islam. While the platform itself is a neutral tool, its advertised application in such an industry raises questions for Muslim businesses seeking ethical solutions. The lack of transparent pricing also adds a layer of uncertainty regarding potential interest-based financing models, which are forbidden.

While Lobbytv.co offers a compelling vision for digital signage, the absence of clear pricing structures and detailed support information on their primary landing page creates a significant barrier for those who prioritize transparency and ethical business practices.

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Lobbytv.co Review
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

In the world of digital solutions, clear, upfront information is paramount for building trust.

Without it, businesses are left to wonder about hidden costs or service limitations, which can lead to unwelcome surprises down the road.

Furthermore, its explicit mention of “bars” as a target industry necessitates a cautious approach for businesses committed to Islamic principles.

Here are some excellent alternatives for digital signage and display solutions that offer greater transparency and broader applications for ethical businesses:

Samsung Business Displays
- Key Features: Wide range of display sizes and resolutions, integrated Smart Signage Platform SSSP, professional design, durable for commercial use, often comes with robust content management software.
- Average Price: Varies widely based on size and model, from $500 for smaller displays to several thousands for large-format commercial screens.
- Pros: Renowned brand reliability, excellent picture quality, comprehensive ecosystem, good warranty support.
- Cons: Higher initial investment, advanced features might require a learning curve.
LG Commercial Displays
- Key Features: High brightness, narrow bezels for video walls, webOS™ Smart Platform for easy content management, often designed for 24/7 operation, various connectivity options.
- Average Price: Similar to Samsung, ranging from $400 to several thousands depending on specifications.
- Pros: Great visual performance, user-friendly webOS, reliable for continuous use, strong brand reputation.
- Cons: Can be expensive for larger or more specialized models, software integration might be specific to LG.
Rise Vision
- Key Features: Cloud-based digital signage software, extensive template library over 400, schedule content easily, supports various media types, multi-user access.
- Average Price: Subscription-based, typically starting around $10-$20 per display per month.
- Pros: Very flexible content creation, affordable subscription model, excellent for various industries, strong community support.
- Cons: Requires a separate media player, some advanced features are in higher tiers.
ScreenCloud
- Key Features: Intuitive drag-and-drop interface, app store integrations social media, news, weather, remote management, analytics, scalable for multiple screens.
- Average Price: Subscription-based, usually starting from $20-$30 per screen per month.
- Pros: Very user-friendly, rich app ecosystem, good for dynamic content, excellent customer support.
- Cons: Can become costly with many screens, reliance on internet connectivity.
Yodeck
- Key Features: Free for one screen, robust content management system, secure and reliable, supports Raspberry Pi as a media player, various plugins weather, clock, social media.
- Average Price: Free for one screen. paid plans start around $7.99 per screen per month for additional screens.
- Pros: Highly affordable, especially for small businesses. powerful features for the price. easy setup.
- Cons: Raspberry Pi setup might require some technical comfort, interface can feel a bit technical for some.
OptiSigns
- Key Features: Wide range of supported devices Fire TV, Android TV, Raspberry Pi, extensive app library, content scheduling, user management, affordable pricing.
- Average Price: Subscription-based, often starting around $10-$15 per screen per month.
- Pros: Versatile hardware compatibility, good feature set for the price, strong customer support.
- Cons: Some advanced features might require a higher tier, can be a slight learning curve initially.
ViewSonic Commercial Displays
- Key Features: High-quality displays designed for commercial environments, often include integrated media players, robust connectivity, and specialized software for content management.
- Average Price: Comparable to LG and Samsung, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on size and features.
- Pros: Reliable performance, good value for commercial use, often optimized for digital signage applications.
- Cons: Brand recognition for commercial displays might be less than Samsung or LG, software ecosystem might be less extensive.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Lobbytv.co Review & First Look

Lobbytv.co presents itself as a streamlined solution for digital signage, aiming to simplify the process of transforming ordinary televisions into dynamic information hubs.

The website immediately highlights its core promise: “Turn any TV into a fully customized digital sign.” This bold claim is supported by visuals of what appears to be a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and mentions of integrations with popular tools like PowerPoint and Google Slides.

For a first impression, Lobbytv.co appears to be targeting businesses that need to communicate effectively with their customers or internal teams without requiring extensive technical expertise.

Initial Impressions on Transparency

Target Industries and Ethical Considerations

Lobbytv.co explicitly lists “BANKS,” “RESTAURANTS & BARS,” and “EDUCATION” as key industries where their solution is utilized.

While the application in banks and educational institutions is generally benign, the inclusion of “BARS” raises an important ethical consideration, particularly from an Islamic perspective. Mailspeedmarine.com Review

Bars typically serve alcoholic beverages, and associating a digital signage solution with such establishments might be problematic for businesses committed to Islamic principles.

It’s crucial for Muslim entrepreneurs to select tools and partners that align with their ethical and religious values, even if the tool itself is neutral, its application in specific haram industries can make it a point of concern.

Lobbytv.co Features

Lobbytv.co positions itself with a suite of features designed to make digital signage accessible and efficient for businesses.

The platform emphasizes ease of use, cloud-based accessibility, and smart content delivery, aiming to cover various business needs from promotions to internal communications.

Core Content Management & Publishing

The cornerstone of Lobbytv.co’s offering is its “Simply drag and drop publisher.” This feature promises an intuitive way to manage content, allowing users to easily upload and arrange various media types onto their digital displays. Richerlink.com Review

This capability is crucial for businesses that need to frequently update their messaging without the complexity of traditional graphic design software.

Supported Content Types: The platform claims to support uploading photos, PDFs, videos, and more. This versatility is essential for creating rich, engaging displays.
Ease of Integration: Lobbytv.co highlights “Easy integration with PowerPoint and Google Slides.” This is a significant convenience for users who already create presentations in these popular formats, allowing them to repurpose existing content quickly. This reduces the learning curve and time investment for new users.

Cloud-Based Accessibility and Control

The service emphasizes its “Anytime, anywhere Cloud-based platform.” This means that content can be controlled and sent to TVs from any location with an internet connection.

Such flexibility is a major advantage for businesses with multiple locations or for managers who need to update displays remotely.

Real-time Updates: The ability to “Make changes to your content in real-time, on any browser and on any device” is a powerful feature. This ensures that information displayed is always current and relevant, whether it’s a daily special or an urgent announcement.
Scalability: Lobbytv.co states it is a “Scalable solution” designed to “grow with your company.” This implies that the platform can handle an increasing number of screens and content demands as a business expands, offering a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.

AI-Powered Content and Dynamic Feeds

One of the more advanced features touted by Lobbytv.co is its “Artificial Intelligence and more…” capabilities.

This includes an “AI-powered news engine” that can gather and deliver relevant news from “over 70 sources” based on a chosen topic or customer profile. Urbanseller.com Review

Automated Content Curation: The AI engine’s ability to “gather content for you and deliver it right to your TVs” can save significant time and effort for businesses looking to keep their displays fresh with current events or industry-specific information.
Customer-Centric Display: The claim to “Just identify who your customer is, and the rest is done for you” suggests a level of personalization in content delivery. This could be beneficial for tailoring messages to specific audiences within different business environments.
Additional Feeds: Beyond AI, the platform also allows users to “Add Feeds like weather, YouTube and Twitter,” further enhancing the dynamic nature of the digital signs. This allows businesses to incorporate external, live information that can be highly engaging for viewers.
Live Stream Radio: The claim of “Live Stream Over 5000 Radio Stations” is an unusual but potentially interesting feature for ambiance in certain settings, though its utility for standard digital signage messaging might be limited.

Integration with POS Systems

Lobbytv.co also mentions the ability to “Use lobbyTV with your POS Point of Sale.” This integration is presented as a “great way to cross-promote your products and services while your customer is waiting to checkout.”

Strategic Marketing: This feature aims to capitalize on the crucial waiting period at checkout, turning a typically passive moment into an opportunity for upselling or promoting new offerings. It’s a smart application of digital signage for direct business impact.

Lobbytv.co Cons

While Lobbytv.co highlights several appealing features, a critical assessment reveals significant shortcomings, particularly in terms of transparency and the overall ethical positioning of the service.

These cons are substantial enough to warrant caution for any potential user, especially those adhering to Islamic business principles.

Lack of Pricing Transparency

The most glaring omission on the Lobbytv.co homepage is the complete absence of explicit pricing details. While a “14-day free trial” is advertised, there is no clear indication of the cost per screen or any tiered subscription plans once the trial expires.

Impact on Decision-Making: Businesses need to understand the full financial commitment upfront to make informed decisions. The lack of transparent pricing can lead to unexpected costs, budget overruns, and a sense of distrust. This practice is often associated with models that may attempt to lock users in before revealing the true financial burden.
Ethical Implications: From an Islamic finance perspective, transparency in transactions is a fundamental principle. Ambiguity regarding pricing can be seen as a form of gharar excessive uncertainty, which is prohibited in financial dealings. Businesses should avoid services that do not offer clear, upfront cost structures.

Focus on Impermissible Industries

Lobbytv.co explicitly lists “RESTAURANTS & BARS” as a key industry it serves. Altruro.com Review

The inclusion of “BARS” is a significant concern for Muslim businesses and individuals seeking ethical solutions.

Association with Haram: Bars are establishments primarily known for serving alcohol, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. Even if Lobbytv.co is merely a digital signage tool, its direct advertisement for use in such environments creates an indirect association with impermissible activities.
Ethical Dilemma: For a Muslim business, utilizing a service that openly promotes its use in industries directly involved in haram activities could be seen as complicity or at least a misalignment with their core values. This raises questions about the overall ethical positioning of the company beyond just the technical function of its product.

Limited Support Information on Homepage

While Lobbytv.co claims “24/7 reliability,” the homepage provides minimal concrete details about their customer support channels or response times.

Lack of Reassurance: For a business relying on digital displays for critical communications, knowing that robust support is readily available is paramount. The absence of easily accessible information on how to get help e.g., phone numbers, live chat, dedicated support portals can be a source of anxiety.
Potential Downtime Issues: If a display goes blank or content fails to update, immediate and effective support is crucial to minimize business disruption. The vagueness around support raises concerns about how quickly issues would be resolved.

Dependence on External Hardware

Lobbytv.co’s “How digital signage works” section indicates a requirement for external hardware: “Download the lobbyTV app from the app store Google Play or Amazon Plug your media player into your TVs.”

Additional Cost and Complexity: This implies that users will need to purchase and manage separate media players, adding an extra layer of cost and logistical complexity beyond the software subscription. While common in digital signage, this detail is not prominently highlighted as an additional requirement, potentially misleading users into thinking it’s a complete, all-in-one solution.
Hardware Compatibility: Users might face issues with specific media player compatibility or performance, which could lead to a fragmented user experience.

Vague AI Engine Details

While the AI-powered news engine sounds innovative, the homepage offers limited specific details about its functionality, data sources, or customization depth. Apartments247.com Review

Content Control Concerns: For businesses, especially those with strict branding guidelines or ethical content requirements, understanding how the AI curates news and ensures its appropriateness is vital. Vague descriptions can lead to concerns about content quality, bias, or even inadvertently displaying undesirable information.
Privacy and Data Use: Any AI-driven service raises questions about data privacy and how customer information or viewing habits are used to tailor content. These are crucial aspects for businesses to consider, especially given increasing data protection regulations.

Lobbytv.co Alternatives

Given the ethical concerns, lack of transparency, and general vagueness surrounding Lobbytv.co, exploring reputable and ethically aligned alternatives is essential.

The following products and services offer robust digital signage solutions without the aforementioned drawbacks, focusing on transparency, broad applicability, and features that support ethical business practices.

These alternatives provide reliable performance, clear pricing models, and often integrate well within diverse business environments, ensuring your digital messaging aligns with your values.

Why Seek Alternatives?

The primary drivers for seeking alternatives to Lobbytv.co are:

Ethical Concerns: The explicit mention of “bars” as a target industry, while not making the technology itself impermissible, places the service in a problematic light for businesses adhering to Islamic principles that forbid association with alcohol.
Lack of Price Transparency: Hidden or ambiguous pricing is a significant red flag in business and raises concerns about potential gharar uncertainty in financial dealings, which is disallowed in Islamic finance.
Vague Support Information: Relying on a critical business tool without clear pathways for support can lead to significant operational disruptions.

Top Ethical & Transparent Digital Signage Alternatives

Here’s a curated list of alternatives that prioritize transparency, broad utility, and ethical application: Cadamen.com Review

*   Overview: Samsung is a global leader in commercial displays, offering a vast array of screens designed for 24/7 operation. Their displays often come with integrated Smart Signage Platform SSSP or are compatible with leading digital signage software.
*   Key Features: High-resolution displays, robust build quality, Tizen OS for content management, versatile connectivity, often include content creation tools.
*   Ethical Fit: As a hardware provider, Samsung displays are neutral tools. Their widespread use in diverse industries including retail, corporate, education, healthcare allows businesses to apply them ethically. Clear pricing for hardware is readily available from distributors and retailers.
*   Typical Use Cases: Corporate lobbies, retail stores, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, transportation hubs.

*   Overview: LG offers a comprehensive lineup of commercial-grade displays known for their vibrant picture quality and reliable performance. Similar to Samsung, many LG commercial displays feature integrated smart platforms like webOS for streamlined content delivery.
*   Key Features: Brilliant IPS panels, webOS Smart Platform, super-narrow bezels for video walls, high brightness options, designed for continuous operation.
*   Ethical Fit: Like Samsung, LG commercial displays are hardware that can be ethically deployed across any permissible industry. Their transparency in product specifications and availability through standard retail channels ensures clear pricing.
*   Typical Use Cases: Retail environments, corporate offices, public information displays, digital menu boards for halal establishments.

*   Overview: Rise Vision is a popular cloud-based digital signage software known for its extensive template library and user-friendly interface. It's a software-only solution, requiring users to provide their own display hardware and media players.
*   Key Features: Over 400 professionally designed templates, easy content scheduling, supports various media formats, multi-user accounts, integrates with Google Calendar, social media, and more.
*   Ethical Fit: As a software platform, Rise Vision is ethically neutral. Its content creation tools empower users to create messages that align with their values. Pricing is transparently presented on their website as a subscription model per display.
*   Typical Use Cases: Schools, universities, corporate communications, community centers, retail stores, healthcare clinics.

*   Overview: ScreenCloud provides a highly intuitive and powerful cloud-based digital signage platform. It's renowned for its ease of use and extensive app store, allowing for dynamic and integrated content.
*   Key Features: Drag-and-drop interface, over 80 app integrations including news feeds, social media, weather, RSS, remote content management, robust analytics, scalable for networks of any size.
*   Ethical Fit: ScreenCloud is a content delivery platform, inherently neutral. Its app integrations allow users to curate content ethically. Their pricing structure is clearly outlined on their website, providing full transparency.
*   Typical Use Cases: Retail, corporate offices, restaurants halal-focused, healthcare, hospitality family-friendly establishments.

*   Overview: Yodeck stands out for its affordability, particularly offering a free tier for one screen. It's a robust digital signage platform built on the Raspberry Pi, making it a cost-effective choice for small to medium-sized businesses.
*   Key Features: Free for one screen forever, secure and reliable, supports various media types videos, images, PDFs, web pages, content scheduling, central management from a web portal.
*   Ethical Fit: Yodeck is a software solution that enables content display. Its neutrality allows for ethical content deployment. Their pricing model is transparent and clearly laid out on their website, emphasizing affordability and upfront costs.
*   Typical Use Cases: Small businesses, cafes, community boards, personal projects, educational displays.

*   Overview: OptiSigns offers a flexible and user-friendly digital signage solution that supports a wide range of hardware, including popular consumer devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick. It's known for its broad compatibility and ease of deployment.
*   Key Features: Extensive app library weather, news, social media, queues, content scheduling, multi-user management, supports various media players Android, Fire TV, Raspberry Pi, Windows, Chrome OS.
*   Ethical Fit: As a versatile software platform, OptiSigns enables ethical content creation and display across permissible industries. Their pricing is publicly available on their website, fostering trust through transparency.
*   Typical Use Cases: Retail stores, dental offices, corporate lobbies, gyms, community centers.

BrightSign
- Overview: BrightSign is a leading provider of purpose-built digital signage media players and software. They are known for their extreme reliability, robust performance, and advanced features, making them a choice for mission-critical applications.
- Key Features: Solid-state reliability, 4K video support, advanced content creation software BrightAuthor, interactive features touch, sensors, network-enabled for remote management.
- Ethical Fit: BrightSign primarily produces hardware and accompanying software. Both are neutral tools, and their application depends entirely on the user. Pricing for their players is transparently listed by resellers, and their software is typically bundled or available with clear licensing.
- Typical Use Cases: Large-scale deployments, demanding retail environments, interactive kiosks, museums, public transport information.

When considering digital signage, always prioritize solutions that offer clear, upfront pricing, robust support channels, and are adaptable to ethical applications without promoting or being associated with impermissible industries.

These alternatives provide strong foundations for businesses seeking to leverage digital displays responsibly.

How to Cancel Lobbytv.co Subscription

Based on the information available on the Lobbytv.co homepage, specific instructions on how to cancel a subscription are not explicitly detailed.

This lack of transparency is a common characteristic of services that might make the cancellation process less straightforward than the sign-up. Designweekaustin.com Review

General Steps for Subscription Cancellation if no direct instructions

In the absence of clear instructions on the Lobbytv.co website, users typically need to follow a set of general steps that apply to most cloud-based subscription services.

This often involves navigating through account settings or contacting customer support directly.

Log In to Your Account: The first step is usually to log into your Lobbytv.co account using your registered credentials. Look for a “Login” or “My Account” link, which, based on the site’s structure, might be accessible through their main application portal e.g., https://app.lobbytv.co/#/register.
Locate Account Settings or Billing Section: Once logged in, navigate to your account settings, profile settings, or a dedicated “Billing” or “Subscription” section. These sections typically house information related to your plan, payment methods, and subscription status.
Look for a “Cancel Subscription” Option: Within the billing or subscription section, there is usually a button or link to “Cancel Subscription,” “Manage Plan,” or “Downgrade Account.” Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the cancellation. Be prepared for potential prompts asking for reasons for cancellation or offers to retain your subscription.
Check for Confirmation: After initiating the cancellation, always ensure you receive a confirmation email or an on-screen message verifying that your subscription has been successfully canceled. Keep this confirmation for your records.
Contact Customer Support if no self-service option: If you cannot find a self-service cancellation option within your account, the next step is to directly contact Lobbytv.co’s customer support. Look for a “Contact Us” page or an email address/phone number. Clearly state your intent to cancel your subscription and provide your account details. Request written confirmation of the cancellation.

Important Considerations for Cancellation

Trial Period vs. Paid Subscription: Ensure you understand whether you are canceling a free trial or a paid subscription. The terms for canceling a free trial might differ from those for a paid plan.
Billing Cycle: Be aware of your billing cycle. Canceling mid-cycle might mean you’ve already paid for the current period, and some services do not offer pro-rated refunds for cancellations.
Data Retention: Inquire about data retention policies after cancellation. Will your content and settings be permanently deleted, or is there a grace period?
Hidden Fees: While not explicitly mentioned on the homepage, be vigilant for any potential cancellation fees or clauses that might be hidden in the terms of service TOS that are not readily accessible.

The lack of clear cancellation instructions on the main website is a significant drawback.

A user-friendly service should make it as easy to leave as it is to join.

This oversight could lead to frustration and financial inconvenience for customers. Couponsolver.com Review

How to Cancel Lobbytv.co Free Trial

Lobbytv.co offers a “14 day trial.

Cancel anytime.” This clearly stated policy provides a window for users to test the service without immediate financial commitment.

However, similar to full subscription cancellations, the specific steps for terminating the free trial are not detailed on the homepage.

Steps to Cancel Your Free Trial Based on Industry Standards

To avoid being charged after the 14-day free trial period, it is crucial to cancel before the trial expires.

The process typically mirrors that of cancelling a full subscription, as both often involve managing your account settings. Peoplique.com Review

Access Your Lobbytv.co Account: Log in to your Lobbytv.co account using the credentials you created when signing up for the free trial. The login portal is likely accessible via https://app.lobbytv.co/#/register.
Navigate to Subscription or Billing Settings: Once logged in, look for menu options such as “Account Settings,” “My Subscription,” “Billing,” or “Manage Plan.” These sections are usually where your current plan details and payment information are stored.
Locate the Cancellation Option: Within the relevant settings, search for a clear option to “Cancel Trial,” “End Subscription,” or “Manage My Plan.” Click on this option to initiate the cancellation process.
Confirm Cancellation: Most services will prompt you to confirm your decision, sometimes asking for feedback on why you are canceling. Complete these steps to finalize the cancellation. It is vital to receive a confirmation message on screen or, preferably, a confirmation email. Save this confirmation.
Monitor Your Email: Keep an eye on your inbox for any communication from Lobbytv.co regarding your trial status or cancellation. This helps ensure that the cancellation was processed correctly.

Key Considerations for Free Trial Cancellation

Timeliness is Crucial: The most important rule for free trials is to cancel before the trial period ends. If you miss the deadline, you will likely be automatically charged for the first billing cycle. Set a reminder for yourself a day or two before the trial is set to expire.
No Automatic Cancellation: Do not assume that your trial will automatically expire without charge if you simply stop using the service. Most trials require active cancellation to prevent charges.
Associated Payment Information: Even for a “free” trial, many services require you to enter payment information credit card details upon signup. This is precisely so they can automatically charge you if you don’t cancel.
Terms and Conditions: While the homepage lacks explicit detail, it’s always wise to review the full Terms and Conditions T&Cs or End User License Agreement EULA when signing up for any trial. These documents would contain the definitive rules for cancellation.

The simplicity of “Cancel anytime” is appealing, but the absence of direct, step-by-step instructions on the main public-facing website for trial cancellation can still cause unnecessary friction for users.

A transparent business prioritizes making both signup and cancellation equally straightforward.

Lobbytv.co Pricing

The most significant and concerning aspect of Lobbytv.co’s online presence, from a transparency and ethical standpoint, is the complete absence of explicit pricing information on its homepage. While the website prominently features a “Try lobbyTV Free 14 day trial” link, there is no public-facing page or section that clearly outlines the cost of the service after the trial period.

The Problem with Non-Transparent Pricing

For any business, especially one seeking to operate ethically and transparently, hidden or vague pricing is a major red flag. This approach can lead to several issues:

Lack of Informed Decision-Making: Potential customers cannot adequately assess the value proposition of Lobbytv.co without knowing the price. This forces them to engage with the sales process or sign up for a trial without understanding the full financial commitment.
Budgeting Difficulties: Businesses need to budget precisely. Without clear pricing, it’s impossible to allocate funds effectively, potentially leading to unexpected expenses.
Distrust and Suspicion: A lack of transparency often breeds distrust. Consumers may suspect that prices are high, variable, or subject to negotiation, which can deter legitimate inquiries.
Ethical Concerns Gharar: In Islamic finance, gharar excessive uncertainty in contracts is prohibited. A contract where one party is unaware of the full financial obligations i.e., the price can fall under this prohibition. Businesses committed to Islamic principles should avoid services with ambiguous pricing.
Time Wasted: For users who sign up for a trial hoping to find pricing details later, only to discover the cost is prohibitive or not within their budget, it results in wasted time and effort.

“Pricing per screen” as the only clue

The only hint at the pricing structure provided on the homepage is the statement: “Pricing for lobbyTV is per screen, so you can have as much content and as many users as you want working on our platform.” Tripszone.com Review

Implied Model: This suggests a subscription model where the cost scales with the number of displays a business intends to use. While this is a common model for digital signage solutions, the actual rate per screen remains undisclosed.
Comparison Difficulty: Without knowing the price per screen, it’s impossible for a potential customer to compare Lobbytv.co’s cost-effectiveness against its competitors, many of whom publish their pricing tiers openly.

What This Implies for Prospective Customers

The absence of pricing information often indicates one of the following:

Tiered or Custom Pricing: The service might have highly variable pricing based on the number of screens, features required, or industry, necessitating direct contact with their sales team for a custom quote.
Premium or Enterprise Focus: Services without public pricing are sometimes targeting larger enterprises where bespoke solutions and direct sales engagement are standard.
Strategy to Capture Leads: It can also be a deliberate strategy to encourage free trial sign-ups or direct inquiries, allowing their sales team to engage potential customers and potentially upsell features or negotiate pricing.

Regardless of the reason, for the average small to medium-sized business or an individual seeking a straightforward solution, the lack of transparent pricing for Lobbytv.co is a significant deterrent.

It forces unnecessary engagement and creates an immediate barrier for those who value clarity and upfront information in their business dealings.

Lobbytv.co vs. Competitors

When evaluating Lobbytv.co against its competitors in the digital signage market, several key differentiators emerge, primarily around transparency, pricing models, and specific feature sets.

While Lobbytv.co presents itself as a user-friendly option, a direct comparison reveals where it stands strong and where more established or transparent alternatives take the lead. Ibuywesell.com Review

Transparency and Pricing: A Clear Disadvantage for Lobbytv.co

Lobbytv.co: The most significant competitive disadvantage for Lobbytv.co is its non-transparent pricing. The absence of publicly available pricing information on its homepage forces potential customers into a sales inquiry or trial without a clear understanding of the financial commitment. This contrasts sharply with many competitors.
Competitors e.g., Rise Vision, ScreenCloud, Yodeck, OptiSigns: The majority of reputable digital signage software providers clearly display their pricing tiers on their websites. They often offer per-screen subscription models, sometimes with tiered features e.g., Rise Vision, ScreenCloud, OptiSigns or even a generous free tier for single screens Yodeck. This transparency builds trust and allows businesses to easily budget and compare.
- Example: Yodeck publicly states its free tier for one screen and competitive rates for additional displays. ScreenCloud provides detailed breakdowns of its “Essentials,” “Pro,” and “Enterprise” plans.

Ease of Use and Content Management

Lobbytv.co: Promotes a “Simply drag and drop publisher” and “Easy integration with PowerPoint and Google Slides.” This sounds intuitive and aims to simplify content creation for non-designers.
Competitors: Many competitors also boast intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces and strong content management systems.
- Example: ScreenCloud is particularly lauded for its extremely user-friendly interface and extensive app library that allows for quick content integration from various sources social media, news feeds. Rise Vision offers hundreds of customizable templates, speeding up content creation significantly. The ease of use is a common competitive feature, and Lobbytv.co’s offering here is on par but not necessarily superior.

AI and Dynamic Feeds

Lobbytv.co: Highlights an “AI-powered news engine” that gathers content from “over 70 sources” and the ability to add feeds like weather, YouTube, and Twitter. This is a strong selling point for dynamic content.
Competitors: While dedicated AI engines are less common, many competitors offer robust integration with dynamic feeds and external data sources.
- Example: ScreenCloud and OptiSigns both feature extensive “app stores” that allow users to pull in live data from RSS feeds, social media like Twitter and Instagram, weather forecasts, stock tickers, and more. While not always “AI-powered,” these integrations provide similar dynamic content capabilities and often offer more control over content curation.

Hardware and Deployment

Lobbytv.co: Requires users to “Plug your media player into your TVs” after downloading the app. This implies a reliance on third-party media players.
Competitors: The approach to hardware varies:
- Software-Only requiring external player: Many, like Lobbytv.co, operate this way e.g., Rise Vision, ScreenCloud, Yodeck, OptiSigns, which support various low-cost players like Raspberry Pi, Fire TV Stick. This offers flexibility and potentially lower initial hardware costs.
- Proprietary Hardware: Some solutions, like BrightSign, offer their own purpose-built, highly reliable media players, which can be more expensive but offer superior performance and dedicated support.
- Integrated Displays: Manufacturers like Samsung Business Displays and LG Commercial Displays produce “smart signage” displays with integrated operating systems e.g., Tizen, webOS that can run digital signage software directly without a separate media player, simplifying deployment for some businesses.

Industry Focus and Ethical Considerations

Lobbytv.co: Explicitly lists “RESTAURANTS & BARS.” This specific mention of “bars” is a significant differentiator and concern for ethically conscious businesses.
Competitors: Most digital signage solutions market themselves broadly or focus on industries without controversial associations e.g., retail, corporate, education, healthcare. They act as neutral tools that can be applied ethically across various sectors. The responsibility for ethical content and application largely falls on the user, which is a preferable model for businesses committed to Islamic principles.

In summary, while Lobbytv.co presents a functional digital signage solution, its lack of transparent pricing and explicit mention of problematic industries places it at a disadvantage compared to competitors who prioritize clarity, offer flexible pricing structures, and maintain a more neutral stance on their applications.

For businesses seeking a reliable and ethically sound digital signage partner, alternatives that provide comprehensive information upfront and focus on broad, permissible applications are clearly preferable.

FAQ

What is Lobbytv.co?

Lobbytv.co is a cloud-based digital signage solution designed to turn any regular television into a customized digital display for businesses to promote products, services, or internal communications.

Is Lobbytv.co a free service?

No, Lobbytv.co is not a free service. Dsouzaaesthetics.com Review

It offers a “14 day trial” but requires payment for continued use, though specific pricing details are not available on their homepage.

How does Lobbytv.co work?

Lobbytv.co works by having users download its app, plug a media player into their TV, and then drag and drop content into the Lobbytv.co Content Management System CMS to publish it to their screens.

What kind of content can I display using Lobbytv.co?

You can display photos, PDFs, videos, and integrate content from PowerPoint and Google Slides.

It also supports live streams, real-time news feeds, weather updates, YouTube, and Twitter feeds.

Does Lobbytv.co offer an AI-powered content engine?

Yes, Lobbytv.co claims to offer an AI-powered news engine that can gather and deliver relevant news from over 70 sources based on chosen topics or customer profiles. Spainrentalhome.com Review

Is Lobbytv.co suitable for small businesses?

The website does not explicitly state its suitability for small businesses by providing transparent pricing.

While features like drag-and-drop might appeal to them, the lack of upfront cost information makes it difficult to assess.

Can I manage Lobbytv.co content remotely?

Yes, Lobbytv.co is a cloud-based platform, allowing content to be controlled and sent to TVs from anywhere using any browser or device, enabling real-time changes.

Does Lobbytv.co integrate with Point of Sale POS systems?

Yes, Lobbytv.co mentions integration with POS systems to allow businesses to cross-promote products and services while customers are waiting to checkout.

What industries does Lobbytv.co target?

Lobbytv.co explicitly targets the banking, restaurants & bars, and education industries, according to its homepage. Bryggen.eu Review

Is customer support information readily available for Lobbytv.co?

No, while Lobbytv.co claims “24/7 reliability,” detailed information about their customer support channels, such as phone numbers or live chat options, is not readily available on their homepage.

How do I cancel my Lobbytv.co free trial?

Specific instructions are not on the homepage, but generally, you would log into your Lobbytv.co account, navigate to your billing or subscription settings, and look for an option to cancel your trial before the 14-day period ends.

Will I be automatically charged after the Lobbytv.co free trial?

Typically, for most services offering a free trial that requires payment details upon signup, you will be automatically charged if you do not actively cancel your trial before it expires. Lobbytv.co does not specify otherwise.

Does Lobbytv.co require specific hardware?

Yes, Lobbytv.co requires a media player to be plugged into your TVs to display the content, implying that users need to acquire this hardware separately.

Can multiple users access the Lobbytv.co platform?

Yes, Lobbytv.co states that it allows for “Unlimited Users and Campaigns” with its “per screen” pricing model, enabling collaboration across an organization. Auto.me.uk Review

Is Lobbytv.co compatible with Google Play and Amazon app stores?

Yes, Lobbytv.co states that its app can be downloaded from both the Google Play Store and Amazon App Store, indicating compatibility with Android and Amazon Fire TV devices.

What are the main benefits of using Lobbytv.co’s AI engine?

The main benefits of Lobbytv.co’s AI engine include automated content gathering based on topics or customer profiles, allowing for dynamic and relevant news display from over 70 sources.

Does Lobbytv.co offer templates for digital signage content?

The homepage does not explicitly mention pre-designed templates, but it highlights easy integration with PowerPoint and Google Slides, suggesting users can create content using those tools.

How reliable is Lobbytv.co’s service?

Lobbytv.co claims “24/7 reliability” for its cloud-based dashboard, allowing continuous control and display updates.

Can I schedule content with Lobbytv.co?

Yes, the platform implies content scheduling through its “Schedule and Deploy From any Browser” feature.

What are the ethical concerns with Lobbytv.co?

The primary ethical concerns include its lack of transparent pricing, which creates financial uncertainty, and its explicit mention of targeting “bars,” which can be problematic for businesses adhering to Islamic principles due to the association with alcohol.