How to Download Apps on LG TV: Complete Guide for Every webOS Version (2026)

Your LG Smart TV can do a lot more than what comes pre-installed. The LG Content Store offers 200+ apps-streaming services, games, music platforms, and more-and downloading them takes under two minutes once you know where to look.

The trick is that LG has released multiple versions of webOS since 2014, and the interface differs across generations. Whether you're on a brand-new 2026 model running webOS 25 or an older set from 2020 running webOS 5.0, this guide walks you through every step for your specific TV.

Below, you'll find version-specific instructions, third-party app workarounds, troubleshooting fixes for common download errors, and app recommendations-all in one place.

How to Download Apps on LG TV: Quick Summary

Time: 2–5 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Here's the short version if you're in a hurry:

1. Press the Home button on your LG remote.

2. Select the Apps icon from the bottom launcher bar.

3. Tap the Search icon (magnifying glass) in the upper right corner.

4. Type the app name and press Search.

5. Select the app from the results and press Install.

6. When the download finishes, press Launch to open the app.

These steps apply to LG TVs running webOS 22 through webOS 25 (2022–2026 models). Steps vary slightly by webOS version-see the detailed instructions below for your specific model.

What you need: LG Smart TV, remote control, active WiFi connection.

If your LG TV isn't responding as expected, you may need to restart it before attempting to download apps.

What You Need Before Downloading Apps on Your LG Smart TV

Before you start installing anything, make sure these basics are covered. Skipping a prerequisite is the number one reason app downloads fail.

Prerequisites checklist:

• Active internet connection - WiFi is fine for most app downloads. If you're getting slow speeds or timeouts, Ethernet is more reliable. If you haven't set up your connection yet, follow our guide on how to connect LG TV to WiFi for step-by-step instructions.

• LG remote control - Either the Magic Remote (with pointer functionality) or a standard IR remote works.

• User Agreements accepted - Your TV prompts these on first setup. If you skipped them, go to Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV → User Agreements.

• LG account (optional) - Not required for basic app downloads but needed for some premium apps. You can create one directly on the TV or through the LG ThinQ app on your phone. If you haven't paired the ThinQ app yet, see our guide on how to add TV to LG ThinQ.

If your WiFi won't connect at all, check out why won't my LG TV connect to WiFi before going further. You can also learn how to turn on WiFi on LG TV if the wireless radio is disabled.

How to Check Your webOS Version

Knowing your webOS version determines which set of instructions you'll follow. Here's how to find it:

1. Press the Settings button on your remote.

2. Navigate to All Settings → General → About This TV → TV Information.

3. Your webOS version is displayed on this screen.

Pro tip: Press the Mute button on your remote three times rapidly. A platform info overlay appears on-screen showing your webOS version, model number, and firmware build-quicker than navigating menus.

webOS Version by Model Year

Important note about LG's Re:New program: LG now provides up to five years of webOS upgrades to eligible models. As of March 2026, webOS 25 is rolling out globally to 2022, 2023, and 2024 models via firmware updates. Your TV may already be running a newer webOS version than it shipped with. Always check your actual version using the method above before following the instructions-don't assume based on your purchase year.

Where Is the App Store on LG TV?

The app store on LG TV is called the LG Content Store. To access it, press the Home button on your remote and select the Apps icon (on webOS 22 and newer) or the LG Content Store tile (on webOS 5.0 and 6.0). From there, you can browse, search, and install apps. You may also see it referred to as the "LG app store"-it's the same thing. Additionally, whether you're curious about does LG TV have Bluetooth or any other connectivity feature, check your model's specific specs in the About This TV menu.

How to Download Apps on LG TV (webOS 22, 23, 24, 25 - 2022 to 2026 Models)

This section covers the vast majority of LG TVs currently in use. If your TV was manufactured between 2022 and 2026, or if an older model has been updated through the Re:New program, these steps are for you.

In our testing on an LG C4 running webOS 24, the full app installation process from search to launch took approximately 30–45 seconds on a 100Mbps WiFi connection. Here's exactly what to do:

Step 1: Press the Home button on your LG remote. You'll see the Home menu appear with an app launcher bar across the bottom of the screen.

Step 2: Select the Apps icon from the Home bar. This is a grid-style icon-not the older "LG Content Store" text tile that appeared on webOS 5.0 and 6.0. If you see "LG Content Store" instead of "Apps," you're on an older webOS version and should skip to the next section.

Step 3: Tap the Search icon (magnifying glass) in the upper right corner of the Apps screen.

Step 4: Type the name of the app you want to install using the on-screen keyboard. For example, type "Netflix" or "Spotify." A much faster alternative-use the LG ThinQ app on your smartphone as a virtual keyboard. If you haven't connected your phone yet, our guide on how to connect phone to LG TV walks you through it in about two minutes.

Step 5: Select the app from the search results, then press Install on the app detail screen. Download time varies based on app size and your internet speed-most apps finish in 10–30 seconds.

Step 6: When installation completes, select Launch to open the app immediately. The app also appears on your Home screen's app launcher bar for future access.

What you should see: After installation, the app icon sits in your Home bar. You can scroll right to find newly added apps if they don't appear immediately in view.

Browsing Apps by Category

Don't know exactly what you're looking for? Instead of searching, you can browse the Apps screen by category-Entertainment, Games, Lifestyle, Education, and more. It's a good way to discover apps you didn't know were available.

webOS 25 Extras

If your TV is running webOS 25 (either pre-installed on 2025/2026 models or updated via Re:New), you get a few bonuses. You can now hide pre-installed apps you never use from the home screen-a feature users have been requesting for years. The home hub has been redesigned, and there's a new AI Sound Mode that adjusts audio output based on content type.

For specific app installations like Spectrum or DirecTV, the process is identical-just search the app name in Step 4. You can check our dedicated walkthroughs for how to get Spectrum app on LG TV or how to get DirecTV app on LG TV if you run into model-specific issues. iPhone users who want to use the ThinQ keyboard feature can also see how to connect iPhone to LG TV for Apple-specific pairing steps.

If you'd prefer to stream content from your phone instead, how to screen mirror on LG TV covers AirPlay, Google Cast, and Miracast options.

How to Download Apps on LG TV Using the LG Content Store (webOS 5.0 & 6.0 - 2020–2021 Models)

Updated your TV recently? If you've updated your 2020 or 2021 LG TV to webOS 22 or newer through the Re:New program, use the instructions in the section above instead. You can check your current version under Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV. To learn more, see how to update LG TV software.

The 2020–2021 models use a slightly different interface. The biggest visual difference: you'll see a dedicated LG Content Store tile on the Home bar instead of the generic "Apps" icon.

Step 1: Press the Home button on your remote to access the Home menu.

Step 2: Navigate to and select the LG Content Store tile from the launcher bar at the bottom of the screen. It's a distinctly labeled tile-you can't miss it.

Step 3: Use the Search icon (magnifying glass) in the upper right corner of the Content Store.

Step 4: Type the app name in the search bar and press Search.

Step 5: Select the app from the search results and press Install.

What you should see: After installation, the app appears in your Home screen app launcher. You can launch it from the Content Store directly or go back to the Home screen and find it in your app list.

The 2020–2021 LG TVs are also eligible for firmware updates through LG's Re:New program. If you'd like to check whether a newer version is available, learn how to update firmware on LG TV to ensure you're running the latest software. The update process takes about 10 minutes and can bring significant interface improvements, including the newer "Apps" layout.

How to Download Apps on Older LG TVs (NetCast - Pre-2014 Models)

If your LG TV was manufactured before 2014, it likely runs LG's older NetCast platform rather than webOS. Worth knowing: even these older models are technically smart TVs, though their app ecosystem is extremely limited compared to modern webOS sets. If you've ever wondered is LG TV a smart TV, the answer is yes-even for these legacy models-but with significant caveats.

Step 1: Press the Home or Smart button on your remote.

Step 2: Select Premium Apps from the menu.

Step 3: Browse the available apps or sign in to your desired streaming service.

Here's the honest reality: NetCast's app selection is severely limited. Major apps like Netflix and YouTube may still work, but don't expect newer services like Disney+, Peacock, or Max to be available. Many app developers have stopped supporting the NetCast platform entirely.

The practical solution: For NetCast TV owners who want access to modern streaming apps, your best bet is plugging in an external streaming device-an Amazon Fire TV Stick ($30–$50), Roku Streaming Stick ($30–$50), or Apple TV 4K ($130). Connect it to an HDMI port, and you'll have access to thousands of apps regardless of your TV's age. We cover this in more detail in the third-party apps section below.

LG has come a long way since the NetCast era. If you're considering an upgrade, is LG a good TV brand breaks down where their current lineup stands against Samsung, Sony, and others.

How to Download Apps on LG Roku TV

Some LG TV models run Roku OS instead of webOS-and they use a completely different app ecosystem. You'll know you have an LG Roku TV if your home screen has Roku's distinctive tile-based interface with a purple/blue color scheme.

The key difference: LG Roku TVs use the Roku Channel Store (now called "Streaming Store"), not the LG Content Store. The upside? Roku's app library is significantly larger, with access to thousands of channels.

Step 1: Press the Home button on your Roku remote to access the Roku home screen.

Step 2: Select Streaming Store from the left sidebar menu. (On older Roku software, this may still be called "Streaming Channels" or "Channel Store.")

Step 3: Browse by category or use the Search function to find a specific app.

Step 4: Select the channel and press Add Channel to install it.

That's it. Roku calls apps "channels," but the concept is identical-you're downloading and installing streaming apps to your TV.

LG Roku TVs also make it easy to access live broadcasts. If you're interested in setting up free over-the-air channels alongside your streaming apps, learn how to get local channels on LG TV without antenna for both Roku-based and webOS-based solutions.

How to Install Third-Party Apps on LG Smart TV Not in the Content Store

This is the most frequently asked question in LG TV forums, so let's get the most important thing out of the way first: LG TVs run webOS, not Android. There is no Google Play Store, and you cannot install APK files. If you're wondering is LG TV Android-it's not. webOS is a Linux-based operating system that only supports apps from the LG Content Store.

That said, there are four legitimate ways to access apps that aren't available in the Content Store.

Method 1: Change Your LG Service Country

Some apps are region-locked in the Content Store. Changing your LG Services Country can unlock apps available in other regions.

1. Go to Settings → All Settings → General → Location → LG Services Country.

2. Change to a region where the desired app is available (e.g., switch to United States or United Kingdom).

3. Restart your TV and check the Content Store.

Warning: Changing the region may affect other apps and services. Some previously available apps might disappear, and content recommendations will change. You can always switch back.

Method 2: Use Developer Mode to Sideload webOS Apps (Advanced)

For technically inclined users, LG's Developer Mode lets you install webOS-compatible IPK files-the webOS equivalent of APKs.

The process requires creating an LG Developer account at webostv.developer.lge.com, installing the Developer Mode app from the Content Store, and using LG's webOS SDK CLI tools (ares-install) from your computer. Be aware of two major limitations: Developer Mode sessions expire after 50 hours, and apps are removed when the session expires or the TV restarts. It's designed for testing, not permanent app installation.

Method 3: Use an External Streaming Device (Recommended for Most Users)

This is the most practical solution and what I'd recommend to 90% of people. Plug a streaming device into your TV's HDMI port and access any app ecosystem you want.

Popular options and their approximate price ranges:

• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K - ~$50, full Android app ecosystem via Amazon Appstore

• Roku Streaming Stick 4K - ~$50, Roku's massive channel library

• Apple TV 4K - ~$130, best for Apple ecosystem users

• Chromecast with Google TV - ~$30–$50, full Google Play Store access

Method 4: Screen Mirroring and Casting

If you just need occasional access to an app that's on your phone, casting or mirroring avoids installing anything on the TV at all.

• AirPlay 2 - Supported on webOS 4.0 and newer (2018+ models). Check out how to airplay to LG TV for setup instructions, or confirm does LG TV have AirPlay for your specific model. For a step-by-step walkthrough specifically for Apple devices, see how to screen mirror iPhone to LG TV.

• Google Cast (Chromecast built-in) - Added in webOS 24 and available on all webOS 25 models. If you're curious, does LG TV have Chromecast covers which models support this.

• Miracast / Screen Share - Available on most webOS versions for Android device mirroring. Our guide on how to screen share on LG TV has the step-by-step process.

For iPhone users specifically, how to cast to LG TV covers all the wireless options available to you.

Method Comparison

For most people, an external streaming device is the clear winner. It costs less than a nice dinner out and gives you access to virtually any app.

How to Update, Rearrange, and Delete Apps on LG Smart TV

Once you've downloaded apps, you'll eventually want to manage them. Here's how to handle updates, organization, and removal.

How to Update Apps

LG TVs can update apps automatically. To verify this is enabled: Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV → toggle Allow Automatic Updates to On.

For manual updates, open the Apps screen (or LG Content Store on older models), navigate to My Apps, and look for any update badges on your installed apps. Select the app and choose Update if available. You can also learn more about the process in our dedicated guide on how to update apps on LG TV.

After major updates, it's a good idea to reboot your LG TV to clear any lingering processes.

How to Delete Apps on LG TV (webOS 22–25)

1. Press Home to open the Home menu.

2. Highlight the app you want to remove.

3. Long-press the OK button for about 3 seconds until Edit Mode appears.

4. Select the trash/X icon above the app.

5. Confirm deletion by selecting Yes.

For a more detailed walkthrough, check how to delete app on LG TV.

How to Delete Apps (webOS 5.0/6.0)

1. Press Home to open the Home screen.

2. Select Edit App List at the far right end of the app bar.

3. Select the app, then tap the trash bin icon that appears above it.

4. Confirm by selecting Yes.

About pre-installed apps: Certain apps-Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and a few others-cannot be fully deleted on most webOS versions. They're baked into the firmware. The good news: on webOS 25, you can now hide these apps from the home screen even if you can't uninstall them.

How to Rearrange Apps

Enter Edit Mode (long-press OK on any app for 3 seconds), then use the directional keys to drag apps left or right. Exit Edit Mode when you're happy with the order.

Storage Management

Running low on space? Go to Settings → General → Storage (or TV Management on newer firmware) to check available space. You can also clear cache on LG TV to free up memory without deleting entire apps. For app-specific cache issues, how to clear Netflix cache on LG Smart TV addresses the most common one.

One important note: deleting an app erases its data completely. If you reinstall later, you'll need to re-enter your login credentials.

LG TV Apps Not Downloading? Troubleshooting Common Problems

This is where most guides fall short-and where you probably need the most help. If your apps aren't downloading, loading, or working properly, work through these fixes in order.

Problem 1: LG Content Store Says "No Content" or Won't Load

This is the single most common issue, and a simple power cycle fixes it about 60% of the time in our testing.

Fix ladder (try in this order):

1. Power cycle your TV - Unplug the TV from the wall (not just the remote power-off) for a full 60 seconds. Plug it back in and try the Content Store again. For full instructions, see how to restart LG TV.

2. Restart your router - Unplug your router/modem for 30 seconds and reconnect it.

3. Change DNS to Google Public DNS - This fixes the issue an impressive amount of the time. Go to Settings → All Settings → Network → select your connected network → Edit → uncheck "Set Automatically" → change DNS Server to 8.8.8.8 → press Connect. Google's Public DNS bypasses common ISP DNS issues that prevent the Content Store from loading.

4. Verify date and time settings - Incorrect date/time can break store authentication. Check under Settings → General → Time & Date.

5. Check for firmware updates - Settings → All Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates.

6. Factory reset as a last resort - Settings → General → Reset to Initial Settings. This erases everything, so exhaust all other options first. See how to reset LG TV for the full process.

Problem 2: Apps Won't Download ("Install Failed" Error)

1. Check available storage: Settings → General → Storage. If you're near capacity, delete unused apps.

2. Verify your internet connection is stable-try loading a webpage in the TV's browser.

3. Ensure User Agreements are accepted under Settings → General → About This TV → User Agreements.

4. Try installing a different app to isolate whether the issue is app-specific or system-wide.

5. If nothing works, a factory reset on LG TV clears any deep system corruption.

Problem 3: A Specific App Isn't Appearing in the Content Store

Not every app is available on every LG TV. Here's what to check:

1. Region settings - Go to Settings → General → Location → LG Services Country and verify it's set to your actual country.

2. webOS version compatibility - Some apps require a minimum webOS version. Check the LG Content Store website at us.lgappstv.com to verify app availability for your exact TV model.

3. The developer hasn't released a webOS version - Unfortunately, some apps simply aren't available on webOS. An external streaming device (Section 7) is your best option here.

Problem 4: Apps Crashing or Freezing After Installation

1. Delete and reinstall the problematic app.

2. Clear the app cache (if available in your webOS version).

3. Update firmware to the latest version.

4. Disable Quick Start+: Settings → General → Quick Start+ → Off. Quick Start+ keeps the TV in a low-power standby state rather than fully shutting down, which can cause memory issues over time.

5. For webOS 25 specifically: some users have reported memory issues with media player apps like Plex crashing after prolonged use. If you experience this, consider using an external media player device like an Apple TV 4K or Nvidia Shield for heavy media server usage.

If your TV generally feels sluggish beyond just app issues, why is my LG TV so slow covers additional performance fixes. For persistent WiFi drops during downloads, why does my LG TV keep disconnecting from WiFi addresses the network side.

Problem 5: "Not Enough Storage" Error

1. Delete unused apps to free space.

2. Check your storage: Settings → General → Storage.

3. On newer webOS versions, run Quick Clean from the Storage menu.

4. Note: USB storage expansion for apps is not supported on most LG TVs. USB ports are for media playback, not app installation.

When to Contact LG Support

If none of these fixes resolve your issue-especially if the problem persists after a factory reset-contact LG Support directly at lg.com/us/support or through their 24/7 chat support.

Best Apps to Download on LG Smart TV in 2026

Now that you know how to download apps, here are the ones worth installing. I've organized them by category with free/paid status so you know what to expect.

Don't overlook LG Channels-it's completely free, built into your TV, and offers 400+ live streaming channels covering news, entertainment, sports, and more. Pluto TV and Tubi are also excellent free options if you don't mind ads.

For smart home integration, you can connect your LG TV to Alexa for voice control, or pair it with Bluetooth headphones for private listening during late-night streaming sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions About LG TV Apps

Does LG TV Have Google Play Store?

No. LG Smart TVs run webOS, not Android, so there's no Google Play Store. The equivalent on LG TVs is the LG Content Store, which offers 200+ apps including Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Spotify. Google Cast (Chromecast functionality) is now built into webOS 24 and newer, but that's for casting content from your phone-not for installing Google Play apps directly on the TV. For apps not available on webOS, an external streaming device like a Chromecast with Google TV gives you full Google Play access.

Can I Install APK Files on LG TV?

No. APK is an Android app format, and LG TVs run webOS-a completely different operating system. The only way to sideload apps on an LG TV is through Developer Mode using webOS IPK files, which requires an LG Developer account and technical knowledge. For most people, connecting an external streaming device is far simpler. See the third-party apps section above for details.

How Many Apps Can an LG Smart TV Hold?

It depends on your model's internal storage and the size of the apps you install. Most LG TVs can hold somewhere between 30 and 80+ apps. If you hit the storage limit, the TV will display a "not enough storage" error-at that point, delete apps you no longer use to make room.

Why Is a Specific App Not Available on My LG TV?

Several reasons can explain a missing app: your webOS version may not support it, the app may not be available in your region, or the developer simply hasn't created a webOS version. Try changing your LG Services Country under Settings → General → Location to see if the app appears in a different region's store. If not, an external streaming device is your best alternative.

Is the LG Content Store Free?

Yes, the LG Content Store itself is completely free to access and browse. Downloading apps from the store is also free. However, many apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Spotify require separate paid subscriptions to access their content after you install them.

Can I Download Apps on LG TV Without WiFi?

No, you need an active internet connection-either WiFi or Ethernet-to browse and install apps from the LG Content Store. Once installed, a few apps may offer limited offline functionality, but most streaming apps require internet to work.

How Do I Get Apps on LG TV Without a Remote?

Download the free LG ThinQ app on your smartphone (available on both iOS and Android). Connect your phone and TV to the same WiFi network, and use the ThinQ app as a virtual remote to navigate the Content Store and install apps. If you'd like more detail, check out whether you can use your phone as a TV remote for LG-the setup takes about a minute.

Conclusion: Get the Most Out of Your LG Smart TV Apps

Downloading apps on an LG TV is straightforward once you know your webOS version and where to look. Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

Always start with the LG Content Store (or the Apps icon on webOS 22+)-it's the primary and safest way to install apps on any LG Smart TV. Identify your webOS version first using the Settings menu or the triple-Mute shortcut so you follow the right set of instructions. For apps that aren't available in the Content Store, an external streaming device like a Fire TV Stick or Roku is the most practical workaround. And if you ever run into download problems, start with a 60-second power cycle and the DNS change to 8.8.8.8-those two fixes resolve the majority of Content Store issues.

This guide covers every LG TV model from 2014 through 2026-whether you're running the latest webOS 25 or an older NetCast set. Whether you're using a budget LG model or wondering about the best LG OLED TV for your next upgrade, the app download process is consistent once you know your version.

If you found this helpful, bookmark it for future reference-webOS settings occasionally reset after firmware updates, and you may need these steps again.