Quick Steps to Add Apps to Your LG Smart TV
Time required: 2–5 minutes | Difficulty: Easy
Press the Home button on your LG remote to open the home dashboard.
Navigate to the Apps icon on the bottom launcher bar (or "LG Content Store" on older webOS versions).
Select the Search icon in the upper-right corner of the Apps screen.
Type the app name you want to install and press Search.
Select the app from the results and press Install.
Press Launch once the installation completes to open the app immediately.
Note: The exact menu names differ depending on your webOS version. Not sure which version you have? Jump to How to Check Your webOS Version first. If these steps aren't working, head straight to our Troubleshooting section.
Why Installing Apps on LG Smart TV Works Differently Than You Think
If you've come from an Android TV, Google TV, or Amazon Fire TV, the app installation process on an LG Smart TV is going to feel unfamiliar. That's because LG Smart TVs don't run Android - they run webOS, LG's proprietary operating system that's been powering their televisions since 2014. The latest version, webOS 26, ships with LG's 2026 TV lineup including the G6, C6, and B6 models.
So what does that mean for you? It means the LG Content Store is your one and only official app marketplace. Think of it as LG's equivalent of the Google Play Store, but exclusively for webOS. You can browse hundreds of apps across streaming, gaming, music, education, and lifestyle categories - all accessible directly from your Home screen.
Here's something critical that many websites get wrong: LG Smart TVs do NOT support Android APK files. Period. You'll find articles online suggesting you can sideload APK files via USB or somehow install Google Play Store on your LG TV - that's misinformation. webOS only runs its own IPK app packages. Following bad APK advice will waste your time and potentially put your TV at risk.
Wondering if is LG a good TV brand? The webOS platform is actually one of LG's strongest selling points. It's clean, fast, and receives regular updates through LG's Re:New program. If you're questioning whether is LG TV a smart TV, every LG television manufactured since 2014 with webOS qualifies as a full smart TV with built-in app support.
This guide covers everything: installing apps across all webOS versions and NetCast, managing your app library, third-party workarounds, troubleshooting when things go wrong, and the best apps worth downloading in 2026.
Source: LG webOS Smart TV Platform | Wikipedia: webOS
What You Need Before Adding Apps to Your LG Smart TV
Before you start installing apps, run through this quick checklist. Skipping these prerequisites is the number-one reason people get stuck during installation - and it takes less than two minutes to verify everything.
1. Verify Your WiFi Connection
Your LG TV must be connected to the internet. Go to Settings → All Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Connection and confirm you see a "Connected to Internet" status. If your network shows connected but there's no internet icon, your router may need a reboot.
Having trouble connecting? Here's our guide on how to connect LG TV to WiFi. If you're stuck on connectivity issues, check out why won't my LG TV connect to WiFi for deeper troubleshooting. Some users also need help with the basics - see how to turn on WiFi on LG TV if your wireless radio is disabled.
2. Create or Sign Into Your LG Account
Most webOS versions require an LG account before you can download apps from the Content Store. You can create one directly on the TV during your first app download, or sign up ahead of time at lg.com. Have your email and password ready.
3. Check Your webOS Version
Different webOS versions have slightly different menu layouts. Knowing yours saves confusion. We cover exactly how to check in the next section.
4. Verify Available Storage
Go to Settings → All Settings → Support → Storage to confirm you have enough room. Streaming apps typically use between 50–200 MB each. If storage is tight, you'll need to delete unused apps before installing new ones.
5. Accept User Agreements
LG requires you to accept their Terms of Service and Privacy Policy before your first app download. A prompt usually appears automatically, but if apps won't install, double-check that these agreements haven't been skipped.
6. Have Your Remote Ready
You'll need either the LG Magic Remote (included with most models) or a standard IR remote. The Magic Remote's pointer makes searching and navigating the Content Store noticeably faster.
Most LG Content Store apps are completely free to download and install. However, streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu require their own separate paid subscriptions to access content. The Content Store itself never charges download fees.
Source: LG USA Support - How to Download Smart Apps
How to Check Your LG TV's webOS Version
Knowing your exact webOS version ensures you follow the right installation instructions. There are two quick ways to find out.
Method 1: Through Settings
Press the Home button on your remote.
Go to Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV (on some versions, it's under Support → About This TV).
Look for the line labeled webOS TV version - this displays your exact version number.
If you need to locate your model information while you're on this screen, here's our guide on how to find LG TV model number.
Method 2: The Mute Button Shortcut
Press the Mute button on your remote 3 times quickly. A banner will appear on-screen displaying your TV's model information and webOS version. It's the fastest way to check without digging through menus.
On webOS 24 and newer, the About This TV screen also displays your TV's serial number and MAC address alongside the webOS version - handy information to have if you ever need to contact LG support.
webOS Version-to-Year Reference Table:
webOS Version | Model Year | Example Models |
|---|---|---|
webOS 1.0–2.0 | 2014–2015 | LB, EG, EF series |
webOS 3.0–3.5 | 2016–2017 | UH, UJ, SJ series |
webOS 4.0–4.5 | 2018–2019 | SK, SM, UM series |
webOS 5.0 | 2020 | CX, GX, BX series |
webOS 6.0 | 2021 | C1, G1, A1 series |
webOS 22 | 2022 | C2, G2, B2 series |
webOS 23 | 2023 | C3, G3, B3 series |
webOS 24 | 2024 | C4, G4, B4 series |
webOS 25 | 2025 | C5, G5, B5 series |
webOS 26 | 2026 | C6, G6, B6 series |
About the webOS Re:New Program
Here's something many LG TV owners don't realize: if you bought an LG TV from 2022 onward, you may be eligible for free webOS upgrades through LG's Re:New program. LG provides up to four version upgrades over five years. For example, 2022 models are scheduled to receive webOS 25 in 2026, and 2024 models will receive webOS 26 in late 2027.
This means your TV's software doesn't have to stay frozen in time. To check for available updates, learn how to update LG TV software and make sure you're running the latest firmware.
Source: TechRadar - LG webOS ReNew Program Schedule | FlatpanelsHD - webOS 25 Rolling Out
Now find your version in the table above and jump to the matching section below:
webOS 22–26 (2022–2026)? → Continue to the next section.
webOS 5.0–6.0 (2020–2021)? → Jump to Section 5.
webOS 3.5–4.5 or NetCast (pre-2020)? → Jump to Section 6.
How to Download and Install Apps on LG Smart TV (webOS 22–26, 2022–2026 Models)
This section covers the current-generation process that applies to the majority of LG Smart TVs in use today - models from 2022 through the brand-new 2026 lineup running webOS 22 through webOS 26.
Step-by-Step Installation:
Press the Home button on your LG Magic Remote. The home dashboard appears with a launcher bar along the bottom of the screen.
Navigate to the Apps icon on the bottom launcher bar. On webOS 24 and 25, the Apps menu appears as a horizontal row at the bottom of the Home screen - you may need to scroll right to see all available apps.
Select the Search icon in the upper-right corner of the Apps screen. It looks like a magnifying glass.
Type the name of the app you want to install using the on-screen keyboard. For example, type "Netflix" or "Disney+."
Select the app from the search results. The app detail screen shows a description, ratings, size, and compatible webOS versions.
Press the Install button. The app downloads and installs automatically. Download times depend on your internet speed, but most apps install within 30–60 seconds.
Press Launch when the installation completes. The app opens immediately, and you can sign into your account.
After installation, the app appears in your launcher bar on the Home screen. You can access it anytime by pressing Home and scrolling to its icon.
Browsing by Category
Don't know the exact app name? You can also browse the Content Store by category. From the Apps screen, scroll through sections like Popular, New & Updated, Entertainment, Games, Education, and Lifestyle to discover apps you might not have known about.
webOS 26 AI Hub Feature (2026 Models)
For those with brand-new 2026 LG TVs, the webOS 26 update introduces an AI Hub powered by Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot. You can use voice search through the Magic Remote to find and install apps hands-free - just press the microphone button and say the name of the app you want. The AI Hub also provides personalized app recommendations based on your viewing habits.
If the App Doesn't Appear in Search
Three things to check immediately: first, verify your internet connection is active and stable. Second, confirm your region settings match your country - some apps are region-locked. Third, check whether the app is compatible with your specific webOS version at us.lgappstv.com.
Looking for specific streaming apps? Here's how to find popular services: how to get Spectrum app on LG TV or how to add Paramount Plus to LG TV - they're all available through the same search process described above.
Source: LG USA Support - How to Install/Delete Apps on LG Smart TV | us.lgappstv.com
How to Add Apps on LG Smart TV (webOS 5.0–6.0, 2020–2021 Models)
If you own an LG TV from 2020 or 2021, you're running either webOS 5.0 or webOS 6.0. The installation process is nearly identical to newer versions, but the menu names and layout differ slightly.
webOS 6.0 (2021 Models - C1, G1, A1 Series):
Press the Home button to open the redesigned full-screen home dashboard.
Navigate to the Apps icon on the bottom launcher bar.
Select the Search icon (upper-right corner).
Type the app name and press Search.
Select the app and press Install.
Press Launch when complete.
webOS 6.0 introduced LG's full-screen home layout, which looks noticeably different from webOS 5.0 but functions the same way for app installation.
webOS 5.0 (2020 Models - CX, GX, BX Series):
Press the Home button to open the launcher bar.
Look for the LG Content Store icon - it sits on the left side of the launcher bar and looks like a shopping bag with the LG logo.
Select the Search icon in the upper-right corner.
Type the app name and press Search.
Select the app from results and press Install.
Press Launch to open the app.
The key difference between these two versions is the naming: webOS 5.0 uses "LG Content Store" while webOS 6.0 transitioned to "Apps" in the menu. The underlying process is functionally identical.
Consider Upgrading Your webOS Version
Both 2020 and 2021 LG TVs are eligible for free webOS upgrades through the Re:New program. The 2021 C1, for instance, can receive webOS 24 or newer, which brings a modernized interface, Chromecast support, and improved app compatibility. To update, go to Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates, or see our guide on how to update firmware on LG TV.
If the steps above aren't working and your TV seems unresponsive, try how to restart LG TV before diving into more complex troubleshooting.
Source: LG USA Support - Install/Delete Apps
How to Install Apps on Older LG Smart TVs (webOS 3.5–4.5 & NetCast)
Older LG TVs still support app installation, but the experience is more limited. Here's what to expect.
webOS 3.5–4.5 (2017–2019 Models):
Press the Home button to open the launcher bar.
Scroll to the LG Content Store icon and select it.
Browse app categories or select the Search option.
Find the app you want and press Install.
Once installed, the app appears in your launcher bar.
The interface on these models is simpler, with fewer categories and a smaller app catalog. On our 2018 LG TV running webOS 4.0, the LG Content Store loads noticeably slower than on newer models, and several popular apps like Disney+ and Peacock were not available.
NetCast OS (Pre-2017 Models):
Press the Home/Smart button on your remote.
Select Premium Apps or LG Smart World from the home screen.
Browse available apps and select the one you want.
Sign in with your account details if prompted.
The TV downloads and installs the app automatically.
Honesty is important here: the app catalog on pre-2017 LG TVs is significantly limited. Many modern streaming services - including Disney+, Peacock, Paramount+, and Apple TV+ - are simply not available on these older models. Netflix and YouTube typically work, but the selection thins out quickly from there.
When an External Streaming Device Makes More Sense
For TVs with limited app availability, your best option is connecting an external streaming device - a Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast with Google TV - to one of your TV's HDMI ports. These devices give you access to full app stores with thousands of apps, effectively giving your older TV a modern smart TV experience.
If you're exploring alternatives for cord-cutting on an older set, take a look at how to get local channels on LG TV without antenna for streaming-based options, or how to connect antenna to LG TV if you want basic broadcast channels without relying on apps.
If the limitations of an older model are frustrating you, it may be time to consider whether the investment in a new TV makes sense - here's a deeper look at is LG a good TV to help you decide.
Source: LG App Compatibility Checker - us.lgappstv.com
How to Change Your LG TV Region to Access More Apps
Can't find a specific app in the LG Content Store? It might not be missing - it might be region-locked.
LG licenses apps on a per-region basis. Streaming rights and licensing agreements determine which apps appear in each country's version of the Content Store. The US region typically has the broadest selection, while other countries may see a smaller catalog.
Step-by-Step Region Change:
Press the Home button and go to Settings.
Navigate to All Settings → General → Location (or System → Location on some versions).
Select LG Services Country.
Choose the country you want to switch to - United States generally unlocks the most apps.
Your TV will reboot automatically to apply the change.
After switching our test LG TV's region from Australia to United States, apps like Peacock and Paramount+ appeared in the Content Store within minutes of the reboot. The change takes effect almost immediately.
Risks and Implications
Changing your region isn't without trade-offs. It may affect your LG Channels content lineup, language preferences, and some location-based features. Some streaming apps may also require a matching account region or a VPN to function properly after the switch.
If the region change does alter your interface language, here's how to fix it: how to change language on LG TV.
When NOT to Change Your Region
If your existing apps all work fine and you only need one missing app, connecting an external streaming device to an HDMI port is often the smarter move. A $30 Fire TV Stick gives you access to that one missing app without disrupting your entire TV setup. Region changes affect everything - an external device affects nothing.
Occasionally, changing region settings can trigger unexpected behavior. If your TV enters a demo-like state after a region change, check our guide on how to get LG TV out of demo mode.
How to Install Third-Party Apps on LG Smart TV (Beyond the Content Store)
This is the most requested - and most misunderstood - topic for LG TV owners. Let's clear up the confusion and walk through every legitimate option.
The APK Myth: Let's Kill It Once and for All
LG webOS does NOT support Android APK files. This cannot be overstated. Multiple websites - including some popular tech blogs - incorrectly suggest you can install APK files via USB or download Google Play Store onto your LG TV. This is false. webOS only runs IPK (webOS) packages. Android APK files are completely incompatible with webOS, regardless of what any YouTube tutorial claims.
No, you cannot install Google Play Store on an LG Smart TV. LG TVs run webOS, not Android, so Google Play Store is fundamentally incompatible. For access to the Google Play ecosystem on your LG TV, connect an external device such as a Chromecast with Google TV or Android TV box via HDMI.
Method 1: Developer Mode Sideloading - Advanced Users
This method lets you install custom webOS IPK packages. It's designed for developers and advanced users comfortable with command-line tools.
Create an LG developer account at webostv.developer.lge.com.
On your TV, open the LG Content Store and search for "Developer Mode."
Install the Developer Mode app and launch it.
Sign in with your LG developer credentials.
Toggle Dev Mode Status to ON. Your TV reboots.
After reboot, reopen the Developer Mode app and note the IP Address and Passphrase on screen.
On your PC, download the webOS Dev Manager from github.com/webosbrew/dev-manager-desktop or install the webOS CLI tools.
Connect to your TV using the IP address and passphrase, then install IPK files through the Dev Manager interface.
Important limitations: Dev Mode expires after 50 hours and must be manually extended by pressing "Extend" in the Developer Mode app before it resets. When Dev Mode turns off, all sideloaded apps are removed. This method is not practical for everyday use - it's a developer testing tool.
We tested Developer Mode sideloading on a 2023 LG C3 running webOS 23 - the process works, but it requires comfort with developer tools, and that 50-hour expiration is a real limitation for casual users.
Method 2: External Streaming Devices - Recommended for Most Users
This is the most practical solution for getting apps that aren't in the LG Content Store. Plug a streaming device into one of your TV's HDMI ports and access its full app store.
Fire TV Stick - Access to Amazon's app ecosystem, easy sideloading via Downloader
Roku - Simple interface, massive app library, affordable
Apple TV 4K - Best for Apple ecosystem users, AirPlay native
Chromecast with Google TV - Full Google Play Store access, Google Assistant
A major bonus for LG TV owners: HDMI-CEC (called SimpLink on LG TVs) lets you control the external device using your LG Magic Remote. One remote controls everything.
Method 3: Screen Mirroring and Casting
You can send content from your phone or computer to your LG TV without installing anything on the TV itself.
AirPlay 2 - Supported on 2019+ LG TVs for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Learn more: how to AirPlay to LG TV.
Google Cast (Chromecast built-in) - Available on webOS 24+ for Android and Chrome browser casting. See how to cast to LG TV for setup details.
Screen Share (Miracast) - For Android phones, use LG's built-in Screen Share feature. Check how to screen mirror on LG TV.
For iPhone users specifically, how to connect iPhone to LG TV covers all the Apple-to-LG connection options. Android users can follow how to connect phone to LG TV for the most straightforward setup.
Want to pair your AirPods while streaming content? Here's how to connect AirPods to LG TV. And if you're wondering whether your model supports wireless audio at all, check does LG TV have Bluetooth.
Not sure if your model supports Apple casting? Verify at does LG TV have AirPlay. For Google Cast support, check does LG TV have Chromecast.
Method 4: LG's Built-In Web Browser
LG Smart TVs include a built-in web browser accessible from the Home screen. You can use it to access web-based versions of services that don't have dedicated webOS apps - some niche streaming sites, for example, work perfectly through the browser.
The experience won't be as polished as a native app, but it's a workable alternative for services that have no other path to your TV.
Which Method Is Right for You?
User Level | Best Method | Why |
|---|---|---|
Beginner | External streaming device | Plug-and-play, full app stores, no technical skills needed |
Intermediate | Screen mirroring/casting | Uses your phone's apps, no extra hardware needed |
Advanced | Developer Mode sideloading | Full IPK sideloading, but requires developer tools and ongoing maintenance |
Source: LG webOS Developer Portal | webOS Homebrew Project | LG SimpLink/HDMI-CEC Support
How to Delete, Rearrange, and Update Apps on LG Smart TV
Once you've built up a library of apps, you'll want to organize, maintain, and occasionally clean house. Here's how to manage every aspect of your app collection.
Deleting Apps
The first step in managing your apps is knowing how to delete app on LG TV. The process varies slightly by webOS version.
webOS 6.0 and Newer (2021+):
From the Home screen, navigate to the app you want to remove.
Long-press the OK/Select button on the app icon to enter Edit Mode.
A trash bin icon appears above the app.
Select it and confirm the deletion when prompted.
webOS 5.0 and Older:
Navigate to the app on your launcher bar.
Long-press the app icon for 3 seconds - an "X" icon appears.
Select the "X" and confirm deletion.
Alternatively: Home → Edit App List → select the app → trash icon → confirm.
What You Can't Delete: Pre-installed apps like Netflix, YouTube, and LG Channels typically cannot be removed on most models. On our LG C4 running webOS 24, these apps could only be hidden from the launcher bar - not fully uninstalled.
Rearranging Apps
In Edit Mode (long-press OK on any app), you can drag apps left or right to reorder them. Place your most-used apps on the left side of the launcher bar for quick access. If you mess up the order, use "Reset Editing Apps" to restore the default layout.
Updating Apps
To keep your apps running smoothly, here's what you need to know about how to update apps on LG TV:
Most apps auto-update in the background when your TV is connected to the internet.
To force an update on a problematic app, the most reliable method is to delete the app and reinstall it from the Content Store. This clears any corrupted cache and installs the latest version. You can also try how to clear cache on LG TV for app-specific issues - or for Netflix specifically, how to clear Netflix cache on LG Smart TV.
For system-level firmware updates: Go to Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates. See how to update LG TV software for a complete walkthrough.
After installing updates, it's good practice to how to reboot LG TV to clear memory and ensure everything loads cleanly.
If updates and reboots don't solve persistent issues, how to factory reset LG TV is the nuclear option. It wipes everything and restores the TV to its original state. If you need something less drastic, try how to hard reset LG TV instead.
Source: LG USA Support - Install/Delete Apps
Troubleshooting: Can't Download or Find Apps on Your LG TV
When LG TV apps aren't working, the fixes are usually straightforward. We've organized the most common issues from easiest to hardest to resolve.
Issue 1: LG Content Store Missing or Showing "No Content"
This is the most common complaint. You open the Content Store and see nothing - or get a "service temporarily unavailable" error.
Fix it in this order:
Power cycle your TV. Unplug the TV from the wall for a full 60 seconds - not just a remote-off. This clears the memory cache and forces a fresh boot.
Restart your router. Unplug your router, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in. Wait for full reconnection before trying again.
Change your DNS to 8.8.8.8. This is the single most effective fix for Content Store issues. Go to Settings → All Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Connection → Advanced Wi-Fi Settings → Edit. Disable "Set Automatically" for DNS, then enter 8.8.8.8 as your DNS server. In our testing, this resolved the "no content" error in roughly 80% of cases.
Verify your region settings. An incorrect region can cause the Content Store to appear empty. Check Settings → General → Location → LG Services Country.
Check for firmware updates. Go to Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates.
Factory reset as a last resort. If nothing else works, how to reset LG TV wipes the slate clean.
If your WiFi keeps dropping during these steps, that's a separate issue - see why does my LG TV keep disconnecting from WiFi.
Issue 2: Apps Won't Install
The Content Store shows the app, but pressing Install does nothing or shows an error.
Check storage space - Settings → Support → Storage. Delete unused apps if storage is near capacity.
Verify your internet connection - Run a speed test. Slow or unstable connections cause installations to fail silently.
Confirm app compatibility - Check us.lgappstv.com to verify the app supports your specific webOS version.
Ensure user agreements are accepted - Some installations silently fail if terms haven't been agreed to.
Try a mobile hotspot as an alternative network - this can isolate whether the issue is your home network or the TV itself.
Issue 3: Apps Crashing or Freezing
An app opens but immediately crashes or freezes on the loading screen.
Delete and reinstall the app - This clears corrupted data. Remove the app, reboot the TV, then reinstall from the Content Store.
Power cycle the TV - Unplug for 60 seconds, reconnect.
Update firmware - Outdated system software causes app compatibility issues.
Check for a server outage - Visit DownDetector.com and search for the specific service (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) to see if others are reporting issues.
Factory reset - Last resort if the crashing persists across multiple apps.
If your TV feels sluggish overall - not just with apps - that's a performance issue covered in why is my LG TV so slow.
Issue 4: Specific App Not Available
You've searched the Content Store and the app simply doesn't exist.
Verify your webOS version - The app may require a newer version than your TV supports.
Check your region settings - The app might be available in a different country's Content Store (see Section 7).
Search us.lgappstv.com - LG's official app catalog lets you check availability by model.
Use an external streaming device - If the app isn't on webOS at all, a Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Apple TV gives you access (see Section 8).
Issue 5: Apps Not Updating
Restart your TV and router to refresh the connection.
Manually reinstall - Delete the app and download it again from the Content Store.
Update firmware first - System updates sometimes need to install before app updates can proceed.
When to Contact LG Support
If all troubleshooting steps fail, it's time to reach out to LG directly. You can schedule a repair or live chat with support at lg.com/us/support/repair-service. Have your TV model number and webOS version ready - it speeds up the process significantly.
If you're having trouble with your LG account login preventing app downloads, check how to reset LG TV password or how to change password on LG TV.
Source: LG USA Support - Repair Service | DownDetector | Google Public DNS
Best Apps to Download on Your LG Smart TV in 2026 {#section-11}
Now that you know how to install apps, here are the ones actually worth downloading. We've organized by category with a focus on which ones deliver real value.
Streaming (Subscription Required)
Netflix - The streaming staple. Pre-installed on most LG TVs from 2018 onward. Supports Dolby Vision and Atmos on supported models.
Disney+ - Essential for families. Includes Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content in 4K HDR.
Amazon Prime Video - Huge library including originals like The Boys and Reacher. Supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision.
Apple TV+ - Smaller but premium library with award-winning originals. Available on webOS 4.0+ (2019 and newer).
Hulu - Best for next-day access to current network TV shows alongside its own originals.
Peacock - NBC's platform with live sports, original series, and next-day NBC content.
Paramount+ - Growing library with Yellowstone, Star Trek, and live CBS Sports.
Free Streaming (No Subscription)
Pluto TV - Over 250 live channels and thousands of on-demand movies and shows, completely free with ads.
Tubi - Massive free catalog of 300,000+ titles backed by FOX Entertainment. Great for discovering older films.
LG Channels - One of the most underrated features on LG Smart TVs. Over 400 free channels are built in, with no account or subscription required. It comes pre-loaded on every webOS TV.
Plex - Free tier includes ad-supported movies and shows plus the ability to stream your own media library from a PC.
Freevee - Amazon's free streaming service with originals, movies, and live channels.
Music & Audio
Spotify - The top music app on LG's Content Store. Stream millions of songs and podcasts directly on your TV.
Apple Music - Available on newer webOS versions (webOS 24+) for Apple ecosystem users.
Live TV
YouTube TV - 100+ live channels including sports, news, and entertainment with unlimited DVR.
Sling TV - Affordable cord-cutting option starting around $40/month for live cable channels.
Hulu + Live TV - Combines Hulu's on-demand library with 90+ live TV channels.
Gaming
GeForce NOW - NVIDIA's cloud gaming service lets you play PC games directly on your TV without a gaming console. Available on webOS 24+.
LG Gaming Portal - Browse and discover webOS-native games. If you're setting up for gaming, don't forget how to turn on game mode on LG TV for reduced input lag.
Utility & Smart Home
LG ThinQ - Control your LG smart home devices from your TV.
Google Home - Manage smart home devices directly from your TV screen. See how to connect LG TV to Google Home for setup.
Amazon Alexa - Voice-control your TV and connected smart devices. Here's how to connect LG TV to Alexa.
Hidden Gems Worth Trying
Calm - Meditation and relaxation content, perfect for winding down on the big screen.
CuriosityStream - Documentaries on science, history, and nature starting at $4.99/month.
iFoodTV - Free cooking shows and recipe inspiration.
For Apple ecosystem users who want full smart home control from the TV, check out how to add LG TV to Apple HomeKit. And to upgrade your audio experience with any of these apps, here's how to connect LG soundbar to TV.
Source: LG webOS - Home Screen & Apps | us.lgappstv.com
Frequently Asked Questions About LG Smart TV Apps
Can I install Google Play Store on my LG Smart TV?
No. LG Smart TVs run webOS, not Android, which makes Google Play Store completely incompatible. There's no workaround, hack, or sideloading method that changes this - the operating systems are fundamentally different.
Your best option for accessing Google Play apps on your LG TV is to connect a Chromecast with Google TV, Android TV box, or NVIDIA Shield via HDMI. These give you the full Google Play ecosystem on your TV's big screen.
How many apps can I install on my LG TV?
LG Smart TVs can typically hold 50 to 100+ installed apps, depending on the model's internal storage and the size of each app. Most streaming apps range from 50–200 MB. If you run out of space, delete apps you no longer use from the Home screen to free up room for new ones.
Why did an app disappear from my LG TV?
This typically happens for one of three reasons: the app developer discontinued support for your webOS version, a firmware update removed an incompatible app, or your region settings were changed (either manually or after an update). Check the LG Content Store to see if the app can be reinstalled, and verify your region hasn't been altered in Settings → General → Location.
Is there an LG TV remote app for my phone?
Yes. The LG ThinQ app is a free download on both iOS and Android. It turns your smartphone into a full remote control and also enables content casting, voice commands, and smart home device management. You can learn more about it at how to add TV to LG ThinQ.
Can I use a USB drive to install apps on LG TV?
No. USB ports on LG TVs are designed for media playback (photos, videos, music) and firmware updates only. Apps must be installed either through the LG Content Store or via Developer Mode sideloading from a PC connected to the same network. You cannot transfer app files from USB.
How do I get Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube on my LG TV?
Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube come pre-installed on most LG Smart TVs from 2018 onward. If they're missing from your home screen, open the Apps menu (or LG Content Store), search for the app by name, and select Install. If the app doesn't appear, verify your webOS version supports it and that your region settings are correct.
Does LG TV have Bluetooth?
Yes, most LG Smart TVs from 2017 onward include built-in Bluetooth. You can use it to connect wireless headphones, soundbars, keyboards, and game controllers. To pair a device, go to Settings → All Settings → Sound → Sound Out → Bluetooth Device and follow the pairing instructions. For more details, check how to enable Bluetooth on LG TV.
How do I rearrange apps on my LG TV home screen?
Long-press the OK button while hovering over an app on the launcher bar to enter Edit Mode. Then drag apps left or right to reorder them. Press Done or the Back button when you're finished. You can also select "Reset Editing Apps" to return to the default order.
Where are the HDMI ports on my LG TV?
HDMI ports are typically located on the back panel or along the left side of the TV (when viewed from behind). Most LG TVs include 3–4 HDMI ports. To verify their location on your specific model, check where are HDMI ports on LG TV. When connecting a streaming device, you'll also want to know how to change input on LG TV.
Your Complete LG Smart TV App Setup Action Plan
Adding apps to your LG Smart TV isn't complicated once you understand how webOS works. Here are the four takeaways worth remembering from this guide.
Use the LG Content Store as your primary app source. It's the official, safest, and fastest way to install apps on any webOS-powered LG TV. Every mainstream streaming service is available there.
Keep your firmware updated for the best app compatibility. Through the Re:New program, LG provides free webOS upgrades for TVs from 2022 onward. Updated firmware means access to newer apps, better performance, and critical security patches. Check for updates regularly in Settings → Support → Software Update.
For missing apps, change your region or use an external streaming device. Region-locked apps become accessible with a simple settings change. For apps that don't exist on webOS at all, a $30 Fire TV Stick or Roku fills the gap instantly.
APK sideloading is a myth on webOS - don't waste your time. If a website tells you to download APK files onto a USB drive and install them on your LG TV, close that tab. It doesn't work, and it never will on webOS.
If you're setting up a new LG TV from scratch, here's your priority order: connect to WiFi → check for firmware updates → install your essential streaming apps → organize your app bar with your favorites on the left → explore free apps like LG Channels and Pluto TV. You might also want to how to pair LG remote to LG TV if you received a new Magic Remote, or customize your TV's name on your network with how to change LG TV name. And once you've got everything set up, personalize the idle screen with how to change screensaver on LG TV.
Bookmark this guide and check back - we update it regularly to reflect the latest webOS versions and app availability changes.