The "Last One to Turn on Wi-Fi Gets 10,000" Promotion: How to Participate and Win

In recent months, there has been a lot of online discussion about an unusual promotion from TV manufacturers and internet providers: "The last person to turn on Wi-Fi on their TV will win 10,000 rubles."At first glance, this condition sounds absurd—how can you be the "last" to connect to the network? In reality, it's based on specific marketing mechanisms tied to firmware updates, device registration, or participation in Smart TV lotteries. In this article, we'll explore the rationale behind this promotion, how it works technically, and what you need to do to increase your chances of winning.

It is important to understand that such promotions are often disguised as hidden conditions — from mandatory registration with the manufacturer's services to the need to use a specific provider. We analyzed user reviews, official rules (where published), and technical details to compile a checklist. If your TV supports Smart features but you haven't yet connected it to Wi-Fi, this might be your chance. The promotion can only be linked to certain TV models (most often Samsung QLED 2022–2026, LG OLED C/X-series And Sony Bravia XR), so please check compatibility first.

Below is a step-by-step walkthrough: from checking your TV model to setting up the network and confirming participation. If you've already tried participating but it didn't work, there's a section at the end of the article with common errors and how to fix them.

What does "last one to turn on Wi-Fi" mean?

The campaign's wording is deliberately provocative to attract attention. In reality, it's all about one of three scenarios:

• 🔄 Updating firmware via Wi-FiThe manufacturer launches a mass update for TVs, and the last user to install it manually (not automatically) receives a prize. This is verified using server logs.
• 📡 Registering a device in the provider's network: Some internet service providers (eg. Rostelecom or MTS) collaborate with brands and track when a TV first connects to their Wi-Fi. The "last" user is considered to be the one who did so at the end of the promotional period.
• 🎲 Lottery among connected devicesThe most common scenario is that everyone who connects their TV to Wi-Fi on the specified dates is automatically entered into the drawing. The "last one" part is simply a marketing ploy.

As a rule, the action is timed to coincide with launch of a new TV model or service update (for example, the release of an updated interface webOS or Google TV). To understand which scenario applies to you, you need to check the terms and conditions on the manufacturer's website or in the TV app. The information is usually hidden in the Special offers or Stock.

Be careful: some scammers create fake pages with similar promotions to collect user data. Always check the website domain—official brand resources have a secure connection (https://) and correct spelling in the address (for example, samsung.com, and not samsung-promo.ru).

Which TVs are included in the promotion?

The list of supported models is rarely announced in advance—it's part of a marketing strategy. However, based on an analysis of past promotions, some general criteria can be identified:

To check your model:

1. Press on the remote control Settings → Support → TV Information.
2. Write it down model (For example, LG OLED55C3) And software version.
3. Check compatibility on the manufacturer's website or in the brand's mobile app (e.g. Samsung SmartThings or LG ThinQ).

Please note: If your TV was purchased abroad (for example, EU version of Samsung), it may not participate in Russian promotions due to firmware differences. In this case, try changing the region in the settings (but this may result in the loss of some features, for example, Yandex.Ether).

Step-by-step instructions: how to connect to Wi-Fi and confirm your participation

The algorithm of actions depends on the type of promotion, but the general scheme looks like this:

Let's look at each step in detail.

1. Firmware update

If the promotion is linked to a software update, you need to:

1. Go to Settings → Support → Software Update.
2. Choose Update now (not "Auto-update"!).
3. Wait until the process is complete (do not turn off the TV!).

On some models Sony Bravia the path may differ: Settings → System Settings → System UpdateIf the update is not found, try clearing the cache:

Settings → Storage & reset → Clear cache

2. Connecting to Wi-Fi

Important: Use Wi-Fi rather than a wired connection (Ethernet). Algorithm:

1. Open Settings → Network → Network settings.
2. Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
3. Wait for the message Connected.

If the TV does not see the network:

• 🔌 Reboot your router (unplug it for 30 seconds).
• 📶 Check that the router is working in mode 802.11n/ac (old TVs do not support Wi-Fi 6).
• 🔒 Make sure the MAC address filter is disabled in your router settings.

3. Registration in the manufacturer's service center

Most promotions require linking your TV to a brand account:

• For Samsung: register in Samsung Account via the TV menu or app SmartThings.
• For LG: create an account in LG ThinQ and connect the TV via Settings → All settings → General → LG ThinQ.
• For Sony: registration required Sony Rewards (available only for Russian users).

4. Confirmation of participation

After connecting to Wi-Fi, check:

• 📢 A pop-up notification with an offer to participate in the promotion (appears in the upper right corner of the screen).
• 🔍 Section Stock or Special offers in the main menu.
• 📧 An email to the email address linked to the manufacturer's account (sometimes confirmation is sent there).

What should I do if I don’t receive a notification about a promotion?

If you don't see any notifications after connecting to Wi-Fi, try:

1. Restart the TV (disconnect from the network for 1 minute).

2. Reset network settings (Settings → Network → Network Reset) and reconnect.

3. Update the firmware manually via USB (instructions on the manufacturer's website).

4. Contact the brand's support team to inquire about the compatibility of your model.

If the promotion is carried out in conjunction with a provider (for example, Rostelecom), additional registration on their website may be required. In this case, keep an eye on the operator's SMS or email.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even if you've done everything correctly, your chances of winning can be reduced by technical issues. Here are the most common problems:

⚠️ AttentionIf your TV was already connected to Wi-Fi before the promotion started, some manufacturers consider this "repeat participation" and disqualify the device. In this case, try resetting the network settings (Settings → Network → Reset) and reconnect.

• 🚫 Using a VPN or proxyIf your TV is connected to Wi-Fi via a VPN (for example, to access international services), the manufacturer may not count your participation. Disable the VPN in your router or TV settings.
• ⏳ Delay in update: Some televisions (especially Xiaomi) are taking a long time to find updates. If the process gets stuck at the "Checking for updates" stage, reboot your device.
• 🔌 Connecting via EthernetThis promotion is only valid for Wi-Fi. If your TV is connected to the network via cable, disconnect it and use a wireless connection.
• 📱 No email confirmationPlease check your spam folder and ensure the email address in your manufacturer account is correct. Sometimes emails can be delayed up to 24 hours.

Another important point: if you use guest Wi-Fi network (with a separate SSID), the TV may not recognize it as the "primary" connection. Switch to the router's primary network.

If after all the manipulations your participation is still not counted, check:

• 🌍 TV region: Must be selected in the settings Russia (or CIS for some brands).
• 🕒 Date and time: Make sure that the correct date and time are set on your TV (automatic synchronization via the Internet).
• 🔄 Rebooting the router: Sometimes connection problems can be resolved by simply rebooting your router.

How to increase your chances of winning?

Since the mechanism for selecting winners is rarely revealed, several proven methods can be used:

• 🕒 Join us on the last day of the promotionIf the "last connection" rule is truly in effect, those who connect a few hours before the end of the promotional period will have the best chances. Keep an eye on the timer on the manufacturer's website.
• 📶 Use a stable connectionIf your Wi-Fi signal is weak, your TV may not be able to send your membership data. Connect within 5 meters of your router or use Mesh system.
• 🔄 Update firmware manuallyAutomatic renewal may occur before you have time to confirm your participation. It's best to wait until the last day and renew yourself.
• 📱 Participate from multiple devicesIf you have multiple TVs of the same brand in your home, connect them all (but from different accounts!). This will increase your chances of success, although rules may prohibit multiple participation.

For models Samsung And LG There is another life hack: after connecting to Wi-Fi, go to Settings → Support → Contact Support and submit a bug report (even if there isn't one). In some cases, this speeds up the processing of your application.

If the promotion is run in conjunction with your provider, try:

• 📞 Call your operator's support team and check if your connection has been counted.
• 📧 Write to the support chat with a request to check the participation status (include the TV serial number).

⚠️ AttentionSome users try to "cheat" the system by resetting the TV's settings or connecting it to different networks. This can lead to the device being blocked from participating in the promotion. Manufacturers monitor such manipulations. MAC address And serial number.

What to do if you win?

If you actually manage to become a winner, follow this algorithm:

1. Check the notificationThe official notification of your victory will be sent to the email address linked to your manufacturer account or will appear in your TV's menu. No "representatives" will call or message you on social media!
2. Collect the documents:
   • Passport.
   • Receipt for purchase of TV (if required).
   • Serial number of the device (located on the back panel or in the menu Settings → About TV).

Reply to the letterThe notification will specify a deadline (usually 3-5 days) within which to confirm receipt of the prize. Failure to respond within this timeframe will result in the prize being forfeited.

Wait for the translation: Money usually comes to a bank card or Qiwi/Yumoney within 10–30 days. Some manufacturers offer prizes in the form of promo codes for purchases in their stores.

If the prize has not arrived within the specified time:

• Check your spam folder in your email.
• Contact the manufacturer's support team with your application number (it is provided in the winning letter).
• Write on the brand's social networks (for example, in VKontakte or Telegram) - sometimes this speeds up the process.

Be wary of scammers: if you receive a winning message asking you to pay a "fee" or click a suspicious link, it's a scam. Official emails always come from domains like @samsung.com, @lg.com etc.

Alternative ways to get 10,000 rubles through TV

If the "last connection" promotion has already ended or your TV model isn't eligible, there are other legal ways to earn money with your Smart TV:

• 💰 Cashback for purchases: Some manufacturers (eg Samsung) return part of the money for purchases made through built-in applications (for example, Samsung TV Plus or LG Content Store).
• 🎮 Tournaments in games: IN Google Play Games on Android TV Competitions with cash prizes are held regularly (for example, in Asphalt 9 or Call of Duty Mobile).
• 📺 Affiliate programs: If you watch streams on Twitch or YouTube Through TV, some streamers give away prizes to viewers connected to the chat.
• 📊 Surveys and testing: Companies like Nielsen pay for installing applications to collect viewing statistics (for example, Nielsen TV Ratings).

To participate in most of these programs you will need:

1. Register with the service (for example, Samsung Rewards or Google Opinion Rewards).
2. Connect your TV to the Internet and log in to your account.
3. Fulfill the conditions of the promotion (for example, watch the video to the end or make a purchase).

Payout amounts are usually less than 10,000 rubles, but the chances of success are higher. For example, in Samsung Rewards You can earn up to 500–1,000 rubles per month for simple actions like viewing ads or installing apps.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the promotion

My TV isn't showing the promotion. What should I do?

Check:

1. Model compatibility (see table above).
2. Firmware update (update manually if necessary).
3. Region in settings (must be Russia).
4. Connection via Wi-Fi (not cable).

If nothing helps, contact the brand's support with the TV's serial number.

Is it possible to participate from a TV purchased abroad?

Depends on the brand:

• Samsung And LG sometimes they block participation for EU-versions.
• Sony And Xiaomi Such models are more often allowed, but may require changing the region in the settings.

Try resetting to factory settings and select Russia during initial setup.

How long does it take to confirm participation?

Typically, it takes anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours. If more than 24 hours have passed:

• Check your email (including your spam folder).
• Restart your TV.
• Check your internet connection (sometimes the TV “forgets” Wi-Fi).

Is it possible to win on an old TV?

Unlikely. Most promotions are only valid for certain models. 2022 and newer, as they support modern encryption protocols (for example, WPA3) and have current software versions. The exception is if the manufacturer has specifically announced support for older devices (for example, as part of an anniversary promotion).

What should I do if I haven't received my prize?

Transfers can take up to 30 days. If it takes longer:

1. Please check your confirmation email for your win (support contact information is provided).
2. Please contact the brand's support service with your ticket number.
3. Post a message on the manufacturer's social media (this often speeds up the resolution).

If you still haven't received your prize, ask for an official response—sometimes technical glitches occur.