TL;DR: How to Update Firmware on LG TV (Quick Summary)
Wondering how to update firmware on LG TV? You have three options, and the right one depends on your setup:
OTA (Over-the-Air) Update - 5–15 minutes | Easy: Best if your TV is connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Go to Settings > All Settings > Support > Software Update > Check for Updates. This is the recommended method for most users.
USB Manual Update - 15–30 minutes | Moderate: Best if your TV has no internet access. Download your firmware from lg.com/us/support, place it in a folder named LG_DTV on a FAT32-formatted USB drive, and insert it into your TV.
Automatic Background Update - Set-and-forget | Easy: Enable auto-updates under Software Update settings. Your TV downloads updates overnight, but you still need to restart to install them.
These steps work for all LG webOS TVs from webOS 3.0 (2016 models) through webOS 25 (2025–2026 models). If you need to how to connect lg tv to wifi first, handle that before starting.
Connected to internet? Jump to Method 1: OTA Update. No internet? Head to Method 2: USB Update. Update failing? Go straight to Troubleshooting.
Why You Should Update Your LG TV Firmware in 2026
Your LG TV's firmware controls everything from how apps launch to how your picture looks during a movie. Keeping it current isn't optional maintenance-it's how you get the most out of hardware you've already paid for.
Here's what trips people up, though: "firmware" and "webOS version" aren't the same thing, and the confusion causes real headaches. Firmware is a specific software build number (something like 04.41.05) that LG releases to fix bugs, patch security holes, and tweak performance. A webOS version upgrade-say, moving from webOS 24 to webOS 25-is a full platform overhaul that adds major new features. Both arrive through the same update process, but they're fundamentally different in scope.
So what's actually in the latest lg tv firmware update? webOS 25 brings support for 1440p at 120Hz (a big deal for Nintendo Switch 2 owners and PC gamers), a new AI Sound Mode that adjusts audio intelligently, AI art features for custom screensavers, and the ability to hide pre-installed apps from your home screen. If you've wanted to how to update lg tv software for a while, these features alone make it worth the effort.
Beyond features, firmware updates patch security vulnerabilities that could expose your TV to exploits-and yes, a connected smart TV sitting on your home network is a real attack surface. Updated firmware also ensures compatibility with newer streaming apps. Some apps silently drop support for older firmware versions, leading to mysterious crashes or login failures.
Should you worry about things going wrong? Rarely. In a small number of cases, users have reported minor issues after the webOS 25 update-particularly memory-related crashes in media player apps like Plex. But staying on outdated firmware carries far more risk: degraded app performance, unpatched security flaws, and missing features you're entitled to.
LG's Re:New program, which earned a CES Innovation Award, now delivers up to four webOS upgrades over five years for eligible models. That means a TV you bought in 2022 is still getting meaningful software improvements in 2026-a genuine shift from how TV manufacturers handled updates just a few years ago. If you want to how to update apps on lg tv after your firmware is current, that process becomes smoother too, since newer firmware improves the LG Content Store's reliability.
How to Find Your LG TV Model Number and Check Current Firmware Version
Before you touch any update settings, you need two pieces of information: your exact model number and your current firmware version. The model number is essential for downloading the correct USB firmware file (a mismatched file won't install, or worse, could cause problems). The firmware version tells you whether an update is actually available.
Three Ways to Find Your LG TV Model Number
Method 1 - The Rear Label (Fastest) Look at the back of your TV, typically near the bottom-left corner. You'll find a sticker or printed label with the full model number (something like OLED65C3PUA or 55NANO75UQA). Write this down exactly, including any regional suffixes-they matter when downloading firmware.
If you need help locating this, our guide on how to find lg tv model number covers every placement variation across model years.
Method 2 - The Settings Menu Navigate to Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV (on webOS 5.0 and newer) or Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV (on webOS 3.0–4.5). The model number appears alongside your software version information.
Method 3 - The Mute Button Trick While watching a live channel or input source, press the Mute button on your remote three times quickly. An information overlay appears showing your model number, firmware version, and other diagnostic details. This works across virtually all webOS versions and is the fastest method if you have your remote handy. You'll need a functioning remote for this-if yours isn't working, check out how to pair lg remote to lg tv to get it reconnected.
How to Check Your Current Firmware Version
Here's where it gets slightly confusing. LG displays two different version numbers, and they mean different things:
"Software Version" (e.g., 04.41.05) - This is your firmware build number. It's what changes with each update.
"webOS TV Version" (e.g., 7.4.0 or 25.10) - This is your platform version. It only changes with major webOS upgrades.
To check: go to Settings > All Settings > Support > Software Update on webOS 5.0+ models, or Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV on webOS 3.0–4.5 models. For users who need to navigate menus without a remote, see our guide on how to change input on lg tv without remote for physical button navigation tips.
webOS Version-to-Year Mapping
webOS Version | Year Shipped | Example TV Models |
|---|---|---|
webOS 3.0 | 2016 | UH series (UH6150, UH7700) |
webOS 3.5 | 2017 | UJ/SJ series (UJ7700, SJ8500) |
webOS 4.0 | 2018 | UK/SK series (UK6200, SK8000) |
webOS 4.5 | 2019 | UM/SM series (UM7300, SM8600) |
webOS 5.0 | 2020 | CX, GX, BX, NanoCell 90/99 |
webOS 6.0 | 2021 | C1, G1, A1, QNED series |
webOS 22 | 2022 | C2, G2, B2, QNED 8K |
webOS 23 | 2023 | C3, G3, B3, M3 |
webOS 24 | 2024 | C4, G4, B4, M4, QNED |
webOS 25 | 2025 | C5, G5, B5 + older eligible models |
webOS 26 | 2026 | G6, C6, B6, W6 |
Knowing your webOS version matters because the menu paths for updating firmware differ between older and newer versions. The steps in the following sections are organized by webOS version so you always see the right instructions for your TV.
Before You Begin: LG TV Firmware Update Checklist
Jumping straight into an update without preparation is the #1 cause of failed firmware installs. Spend two minutes on this checklist and you'll avoid the most common problems.
Pre-Update Checklist:
Note your current firmware version. Write it down or take a photo of the About This TV screen. You'll compare this after the update to verify it installed correctly.
Confirm your internet connection (for OTA). Go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi Connection and verify you're connected. If your TV won't connect, our guide on why won't my lg tv connect to wifi walks through the most common fixes.
Prepare a FAT32-formatted USB drive (for USB method). Your USB drive must be formatted as FAT32. This is critical-LG TVs running webOS (which is Linux-based) cannot read NTFS or exFAT drives. A drive with at least 1GB of free space is required, since firmware files typically range from 400MB to 1GB.
Know your exact TV model number. Required for downloading the correct firmware file from LG's website.
Use a surge protector or ensure stable power. The TV must maintain power throughout the update process.
Close all streaming apps. Open apps consume memory and background bandwidth that can interfere with downloads and installations.
Budget your time. OTA takes roughly 5–15 minutes. USB typically takes 15–30 minutes. Don't start right before you want to watch something.
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: Do not unplug the TV, remove the USB drive, or cut power during the firmware installation process. Interrupting a firmware install can corrupt the software and potentially brick your TV, requiring a mainboard replacement. This isn't a scare tactic-it's a real risk documented across repair forums and LG's own support documentation.
Which method should you use? Connected to internet and want the easiest path? → Use the OTA method (Section 4). No internet connection available? → Use the USB method (Section 5). Want it handled automatically going forward? → Enable auto-updates (covered in Section 4). If you need to get your TV powered on first without a remote, see how to turn on lg tv without remote.
How to Update LG TV Firmware Over the Internet (OTA Method)
The OTA method is the easiest way to update lg tv software, and it's what LG recommends for most users. Your TV connects directly to LG's servers, downloads the latest firmware, and installs it-no computer or USB drive needed.
Before you start, make sure your TV is online. Navigate to Settings > Network and confirm your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is active. If you need help getting connected, our guide on how to turn on wifi on lg tv has you covered.
For webOS 5.0 and Newer (2020–2026 Models)
This covers most LG TVs sold in the last six years. The menu path is consistent across the C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, G-series, B-series, and QNED models from these years.
Press the Settings (gear icon) button on your remote.
Select All Settings at the bottom of the quick settings panel.
Navigate to Support (it's the last option in the left menu).
Select Software Update.
Click Check for Updates. Your TV will contact LG's servers and scan for available firmware.
If an update is found, select Download and Install. A progress bar appears during the download.
After the download completes, power off your TV for 10 seconds, then power it back on. This step is critical-the firmware actually applies during the reboot sequence. Many people skip this and wonder why nothing changed.
That post-download power cycle catches more people than any other step. If your TV seems unchanged after downloading an update, a proper restart is usually the fix. Our guide on how to restart lg tv covers the best way to do a clean power cycle.
Quick tip: If "Check for Updates" is grayed out or the TV says it can't connect to the server, your internet connection might be unstable. Try switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet temporarily, or troubleshoot with our guide on why does my lg tv keep disconnecting from wifi.
For webOS 3.0–4.5 (2016–2019 Models)
The menu structure is slightly different on these older models.
Press the Settings button on your remote.
Select All Settings.
Navigate to General (not Support-this is the key difference).
Select About This TV.
Click Check for Updates (or Download and Install if an update prompt appears).
Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install.
Power off the TV for 10 seconds, then power it back on.
For webOS 2.0 (2015 Models)
Press the Home button on your remote.
Select Settings from the launcher bar.
Navigate to Advanced > General > About This TV.
Select Check for Updates and follow the prompts.
How to Enable (or Disable) Automatic Updates
LG TVs can download firmware in the background while you sleep-but the update still requires a power cycle to actually install.
To toggle automatic updates: go to Settings > All Settings > Support > Software Update and flip the Allow Automatic Updates switch on or off.
A word on auto-updates and control: the webOS 25 update famously added a Microsoft Copilot shortcut to home screens automatically, with no option to remove it initially. LG later clarified that Copilot is implemented as a browser shortcut rather than a native app, and stated it would allow users to delete the shortcut icon. If you want full control over what gets installed on your TV, disabling auto-updates and checking manually gives you the chance to research what each update includes before committing.
After any update, some Bluetooth accessories may need to be re-paired. If you use wireless headphones, check how to connect bluetooth headphones to lg tv if they stop connecting after a firmware change.
How to Update LG TV Firmware via USB Drive (Manual Method)
The USB method is your go-to when OTA isn't an option-no internet, unreliable Wi-Fi, or the online update keeps failing. It's also the fastest way to get a specific firmware version onto your TV without waiting for the rollout to reach your region.
What You'll Need
A USB flash drive with at least 1GB of free space (4–16GB drives work best)
The drive must be formatted as FAT32 - NTFS and exFAT will not work
A computer with internet access
Your exact LG TV model number (including region suffix)
Step-by-Step USB Firmware Update Instructions
Step 1 - Download the firmware from LG's website.
On your computer, visit LG's Software & Drivers support page. Type your exact model number into the search bar and select your TV from the dropdown results. Under the Software & Drivers section, download the latest firmware file (usually a ZIP archive, typically 400MB–1GB in size).
You need to how to find lg tv model number before this step. The model number must match precisely-downloading firmware meant for an OLED65C3PUA onto an OLED65C3PSA (different region) can cause the TV to reject the file or, worse, create compatibility issues.
Step 2 - Format your USB drive as FAT32.
On Windows: right-click the drive in File Explorer > Format > select FAT32 > click Start. On Mac: open Disk Utility > select the drive > click Erase > choose MS-DOS (FAT) format.
This step alone prevents most USB update failures. LG's webOS runs on a Linux-based kernel that natively reads FAT32 but does not support NTFS. If your USB drive is larger than 32GB on Windows, you may need a third-party formatting tool since Windows limits the built-in FAT32 formatter to 32GB partitions.
Step 3 - Create the LG_DTV folder.
On the USB drive's root directory, create a new folder named exactly LG_DTV. This naming is case-sensitive and mandatory-the TV's updater scans specifically for this folder name and ignores everything else.
Step 4 - Extract the firmware file into the LG_DTV folder.
Unzip the downloaded file. You'll typically find an .EPK file inside. Place this file directly into the LG_DTV folder. For some older models where the firmware extension is ".bin" rather than ".epk," the file should go in the USB root directory without the LG_DTV folder.
The folder structure should look like this:
USB Drive (Root)
└── LG_DTV
└── firmware_file.epk
Make sure the firmware file sits directly inside LG_DTV-not nested in a subfolder. Double-nesting is a common mistake when extracting ZIP files on Windows.
Step 5 - Safely eject the USB drive from your computer.
Always use "Safely Remove Hardware" on Windows or "Eject" on Mac before physically unplugging the drive. This prevents file corruption.
Step 6 - Insert the USB drive into your TV.
With your TV powered on, plug the USB drive into any available USB port. If you're not sure where the ports are, our guide on where are hdmi ports on lg tv covers port locations across model years (USB ports are typically adjacent to the HDMI ports).
Step 7 - Handle the SmartShare prompt.
When the TV detects the USB drive, it may ask if you want to view media files by switching to the SmartShare app. Click Stay so the TV can detect the firmware file instead. Switching to SmartShare causes the TV to treat the drive as a media device, bypassing the update scan entirely.
Step 8 - Install the firmware.
If the steps were followed correctly, the TV will display "USB Update Ready" - select Install and follow the on-screen instructions. A progress bar tracks the installation.
⚠️ WARNING: Do not unplug the TV or remove the USB drive during installation. This process can take anywhere from 3 to 20 minutes depending on the firmware size and your TV model. Interrupting it risks corrupting the firmware, which can leave your TV in an unbootable state requiring professional repair.
Step 9 - Verify the update.
The TV restarts automatically when installation completes. Navigate to About This TV and confirm the software version has changed. If it hasn't, see the Troubleshooting section.
Important: If the firmware on your USB drive is the same version as (or older than) what's already installed, the TV will not proceed with the update. It's not broken-it's working as designed.
If your USB update doesn't trigger the detection prompt at all, try clearing the TV's cache first. Our guide on how to clear cache on lg tv can help. As a last resort, a how to factory reset lg tv may resolve persistent detection issues, but this erases all your settings and app data.
How to Update LG TV Without Wi-Fi, Internet, or a Remote
Not everyone has a straightforward setup. Maybe your TV isn't near a router, maybe your remote is MIA, or maybe both. Here's how to handle each scenario.
Scenario 1: No Internet Connection
The USB method from Section 5 is your only option here, and it works perfectly. Download the firmware on any device with internet access (computer, phone, or even a library computer), transfer it to a FAT32 USB drive with the LG_DTV folder, and plug it into your TV.
The entire lg tv update without wifi process bypasses LG's servers completely-your TV reads the firmware directly from the USB drive.
Scenario 2: No Remote
You have two alternatives for navigating your TV's menus:
Option A - Use the LG ThinQ app as a virtual remote. Available for both iOS and Android, the ThinQ app turns your smartphone into a full-featured remote control that can navigate every menu including Software Update. One important caveat: ThinQ requires your phone and TV to be on the same Wi-Fi network to pair. If you need setup instructions, check out how to add tv to lg thinq. You can also learn more about using how to control lg tv with phone as a general remote replacement.
The idea of using can i use my phone as a tv remote lg sounds simple enough, but it does require a working Wi-Fi connection on both devices. It won't help in a no-internet-and-no-remote situation.
Option B - Use the physical buttons on the TV body. Most LG TVs have physical buttons located on the bottom center edge, bottom-right rear, or the rear panel near the LG logo. These buttons allow basic navigation-power, volume, channel, and input switching. On many models, you can reach the Settings menu by pressing and holding the power/menu button. However, physical button navigation is limited and may not allow you to reach the Software Update menu on all models.
For more on navigating without a remote, see how to connect lg tv to wifi without remote and how to change input on lg tv without remote.
Scenario 3: No Internet AND No Remote
This is the trickiest combination. Your best path: use the TV's physical buttons for basic navigation and the USB update method for the firmware itself. If the physical buttons on your model can reach the Settings menu, you can initiate the USB update from there.
If physical buttons don't provide enough navigation to reach the update screen, you'll need to obtain either a replacement LG Magic Remote or use the ThinQ app over a mobile hotspot. Some users have successfully connected their phone's hotspot to the TV through physical button menu navigation, then used ThinQ for the rest. It's not elegant, but it works.
How to Verify Your LG TV Firmware Update Was Successful
Don't just assume the update worked-verify it. This takes under a minute.
Check your firmware version. Navigate to Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV (or Settings > Support > Software Update on newer models). Compare the "Software Version" displayed with what you recorded before the update. If the number has changed, you're good.
Cross-reference with LG's website. Visit lg.com/us/support, search for your model, and compare the latest firmware version listed under Software & Drivers with what your TV shows. They should match.
Check for new features. If you updated to webOS 25, try long-pressing an app icon on the home screen-you should now see the option to hide pre-installed apps. If this option is missing, the update may not have applied correctly.
Verify your apps. Some apps may need to be updated or reinstalled after a major firmware upgrade. If apps crash or won't open, visit the LG Content Store and check for app updates. Our guides on how to download apps on lg tv and how to update apps on lg tv walk through the process.
If the firmware version hasn't changed after your update attempt, don't panic. Head to the Troubleshooting section below-there are several common causes and all of them are fixable.
What's New in webOS 25: Features, Eligible Models, and the LG Re:New Program
If you own an LG TV from 2022, 2023, or 2024, you're eligible for one of the biggest firmware upgrades in LG's history. webOS 25 isn't just a bug-fix release-it's a full platform upgrade packed with features that were previously exclusive to new TVs.
webOS 25 Feature Highlights
Key additions include support for 1440p at 120Hz, a new AI Sound Mode, AI art features, the ability to hide pre-installed apps on the home screen, a redesigned Home Hub for smart home control, custom screensavers from personal photos, and a fix for the input icon switching behavior.
The 1440p 120Hz support is especially relevant for gamers using a PC or the Nintendo Switch 2, which outputs at 1440p natively. Previously, LG TVs forced these signals into either 1080p or 4K, adding latency and processing overhead. That limitation is now gone.
The ability to hide pre-installed apps was one of the most requested features in LG's community forums. After updating, long-press any app on the home screen and select "Hide" to remove it from view without actually uninstalling it.
webOS 25 Firmware Version Numbers
Look for firmware versions 33.21.85 (initial release) or 33.22.15 (newer build with additional bug fixes). If your TV shows either of these after updating, webOS 25 is installed.
Eligible Models
Model Year | Eligible TV Series | Expected Rollout |
|---|---|---|
2024 | C4, G4, M4, B4, all QNED models | Q4 2025 – Q1 2026 |
2023 | C3, G3, M3, B3, QNED models | Q4 2025 – Q1 2026 |
2022 (Select) | C2, G2, select OLED + 8K QNED | Q1 2026 (staggered) |
LG has outlined its long-term rollout plan: 2022 models are scheduled to receive webOS versions up to webOS 26, 2023 models up to webOS 27, and 2024 models up to webOS 28.
Whether you own one of the what is the best lg oled tv models or a more budget-friendly option, if it's from 2022–2024, check for the update. Google Cast (Chromecast built-in) was added in webOS 24, so if you're wondering does lg tv have chromecast, the answer is yes-for models that received webOS 24 or later.
The LG Re:New Program Explained
The Re:New program delivers four webOS upgrades over five years. For example, a 2024 TV with webOS 24 pre-installed will receive webOS 25 in 2025, webOS 26 in 2026, webOS 27 in 2027, and webOS 28 in 2028.
The roughly one-year delay between a new webOS version launching on current-year TVs and arriving on older models isn't arbitrary. LG has explained that the delay gives their engineering team time to address bugs and optimize the OS for older hardware configurations.
This program is a genuine differentiator that speaks to whether is lg a good tv brand-few competitors offer full platform upgrades for TVs that are three or four years old.
Re:New Upgrade Schedule
Model Year | webOS 24 | webOS 25 | webOS 26 | webOS 27 | webOS 28 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2022 | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | - | - |
2023 | 2025 | 2025/2026 | 2027 | 2028 | - |
2024 | Pre-installed | 2025/2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 |
2025 | - | Pre-installed | 2026/2027 | 2028 | 2029 |
Known Issues with webOS 25
In the interest of being upfront: webOS 25 isn't perfect. Some users have reported memory-related crashes in media player apps, particularly Plex and the internal media player, on older models with limited RAM. If you rely heavily on local media playback through Plex, you may want to wait for a subsequent patch or use an external streaming device (Apple TV 4K, Nvidia Shield) as a workaround.
Additionally, the webOS 25 update generated controversy when it automatically added a Microsoft Copilot shortcut to TV home screens. According to affected users, Copilot appeared after the update and could not be uninstalled-only hidden. LG later responded that the Copilot presence is a browser shortcut rather than an embedded app, and committed to allowing users to delete it.
webOS 26 - What's Coming for 2026 TVs
LG's 2026 TV lineup-the G6, C6, B6, and W6-ships with webOS 26, which features Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot integration, Bluetooth Ultra Low Latency for 1ms controller response, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect for wireless surround sound, and 4K 120Hz game streaming via Nvidia GeForce Now. LG promises at least five years of webOS updates for all 2026 models, ensuring they won't become outdated quickly.
Understanding webOS as LG's smart TV platform is essential context. If you're wondering whether your set qualifies as a smart TV, our explainer on is lg tv a smart tv covers what "smart" actually means in the LG ecosystem.
Troubleshooting - LG TV Firmware Update Failed or Not Working
This is the section no competitor covers properly-and it's the one you need most when things go sideways. If your lg tv firmware update failed, work through these scenarios in order.
Quick-Reference Troubleshooting Table
Symptom | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
"Update Failed" or "Update Not Completed" | Unstable Wi-Fi, insufficient storage | Switch to Ethernet, clear cache, try USB method |
USB drive not detected | Wrong format or folder name | Format as FAT32, verify "LG_DTV" folder naming |
"No Update Available" | Regional rollout delay, incorrect date/time | Check version vs. LG website, try USB method |
Update stuck at 0% or 99% | Network interruption, large file | Wait 30 min, then hard power cycle + retry |
TV won't turn on after update | Corrupted firmware | Unplug 60 sec, try USB reinstall |
Apps crashing after update | webOS 25 memory bugs | Restart TV, clear app cache, reinstall apps |
Problem 1: "Update Failed" or "Update Not Completed" Error
This is the most common issue, and it's almost always network-related. The TV downloads the firmware, attempts to verify the file integrity, and fails because the Wi-Fi connection dropped briefly during the transfer-even a one-second interruption can corrupt the download.
Fixes (try in order):
Switch from Wi-Fi to Ethernet. Even a temporary wired connection eliminates the #1 cause of download failures. Plug an Ethernet cable directly from your router to your TV.
Clear the TV's cache. Navigate to Settings > All Settings > General > Storage and clear cached data. Residual files from failed previous attempts can block new installations. For a detailed walkthrough, see how to clear cache on lg tv.
Free up storage. Uninstall apps you don't use. Firmware needs temporary storage space to unpack and install. If your TV is loaded with apps, there may not be enough room. Our guide on how to delete app on lg tv shows how to remove them.
Try the USB method. It bypasses all network issues entirely and is the most reliable fallback.
Problem 2: USB Drive Not Detected by TV
The TV doesn't respond when you plug in the USB drive-no prompt, no update screen, nothing.
Fixes:
Verify the folder is named exactly "LG_DTV." This is case-sensitive. "lg_dtv," "Lg_DTV," or "LG_dtv" will all fail silently. The TV's updater scans for this exact string and nothing else.
Format the USB as FAT32. If the drive is NTFS or exFAT, the TV literally cannot read it. Re-format and try again.
Check for nested folders. The firmware .EPK file must be directly inside LG_DTV, not inside a subfolder within LG_DTV. Windows sometimes creates nested directories when extracting ZIP files.
Try a different USB port. Some TV USB ports deliver different power levels or have intermittent hardware issues.
Try a different USB drive. Some USB 3.0 drives have compatibility issues with older LG TVs. A basic USB 2.0 drive under 16GB tends to be most reliable.
Problem 3: "No Update Available" When One Exists
You know a new firmware is available (you checked LG's website), but your TV insists it's up to date.
Fixes:
Verify your TV's date and time settings. Incorrect date and time on the TV can cause certificate and verification failures when downloading firmware. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time and enable automatic date/time.
Check regional rollout status. LG staggers firmware releases globally. Your region may not have the update yet.
Use the USB method. Download the firmware directly from LG's website for your exact model and install via USB to bypass server-side rollout restrictions.
Problem 4: Update Stuck at a Percentage (0%, 50%, 99%)
The progress bar launches but freezes at a specific point.
Fixes:
Wait at least 30 minutes. Large firmware updates (especially webOS version upgrades like webOS 24 to webOS 25) are substantial files. What looks "stuck" may just be slow.
If truly stuck after 30 minutes: unplug the TV from the wall outlet, wait 60 seconds, and plug it back in. This hard power cycle forces the updater process to restart.
Retry with the USB method. If the online update keeps stalling, USB eliminates network bottlenecks entirely.
If your TV seems unresponsive, you can try how to reboot lg tv using the power cycle method.
Problem 5: TV Won't Turn On After Update (Bricked)
This is the scary one. The TV shows nothing, loops on the LG logo, or flashes the screen endlessly.
Fixes:
Hard power cycle. Unplug the TV completely from the wall (not just the power strip), wait a full 60 seconds, and plug it back in. This clears the power supply capacitors and forces a cold boot.
Try USB firmware reinstall. While the TV is in this state, plug in a prepared USB drive with the correct firmware. Some LG TVs can detect and install firmware from USB even when the main OS is corrupted.
Contact LG Support. If the TV loops on the logo indefinitely or shows a flashing screen, the firmware may have corrupted during installation. Under warranty, LG will typically replace the mainboard at no cost. Out of warranty, mainboard replacement runs $150–$400 depending on the model.
If your TV shows symptoms like screen flashing, check why is my lg tv flashing. If it flat-out won't power on, why is my lg tv not turning on covers additional diagnostics beyond firmware issues.
Don't attempt to force a factory reset on a bricked TV unless you've exhausted other options. A how to reset lg tv or how to hard reset lg tv can help in some cases, but if the firmware itself is corrupted, a reset won't fix the underlying issue-and could make recovery harder.
Problem 6: Apps Crashing or Slow Performance After webOS 25 Update
This is a known issue, particularly with Plex and the built-in media player on older models with limited RAM.
Fixes:
Restart the TV. A fresh boot clears temporary memory allocations.
Clear individual app caches. Navigate to the app in Settings and clear its cache data. For Netflix specifically, how to clear netflix cache on lg smart tv provides step-by-step instructions.
Reinstall affected apps. Delete and reinstall the problematic app from the LG Content Store.
Check for firmware 33.22.15. This newer build includes memory management fixes that address some of the Plex crash issues. Run the update check again.
Use an external streaming device as a temporary workaround if crashes persist. An Apple TV 4K or Nvidia Shield handles local media playback without depending on the TV's internal memory.
If your TV feels sluggish overall after the update, why is my lg tv so slow addresses general performance optimization. And if the TV keeps cycling power on its own after the update, check why does my lg tv keep turning off for possible causes.
Frequently Asked Questions About LG TV Firmware Updates
How often does LG release firmware updates?
LG releases firmware updates on an as-needed basis, typically 2–4 times per year for current-generation models. These range from minor bug-fix patches to major webOS version upgrades delivered annually through the Re:New program. Critical security patches may arrive more frequently. You can manually check anytime under Settings > Support > Software Update.
Will updating firmware delete my apps and settings?
Standard firmware updates preserve your settings, installed apps, and login credentials. Major webOS version upgrades (like moving from webOS 24 to webOS 25) may occasionally require reinstalling specific apps, but your core settings remain intact. A factory reset after a problematic update will erase everything-avoid it unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to reset your login information afterward, how to reset lg tv password walks you through the process.
Can I downgrade to a previous firmware version on my LG TV?
Generally, no. LG TVs reject firmware files with a version number equal to or older than what's currently installed. In rare cases, specific older firmware can be force-installed via USB through service menu tricks, but this risks bricking the TV and is not recommended or supported by LG.
Is it safe to turn off auto-updates on LG TV?
Yes. Disable auto-updates under Settings > Support > Software Update > Allow Automatic Updates (toggle off). This gives you control over when and what gets installed. The tradeoff is that you'll need to manually check for updates periodically. Given that the webOS 25 update automatically installed a Microsoft Copilot shortcut that drew widespread criticism, disabling auto-updates gives you the option to research what's included before you commit. If you'd also like to disable other features you didn't ask for, how to turn off voice on lg tv covers voice assistant controls.
How long does a firmware update take on LG TV?
OTA updates typically take 5–15 minutes for the download, plus 3–5 minutes for installation during the reboot. USB updates usually take 3–20 minutes for installation. The TV restarts automatically when complete. Larger updates (like webOS version upgrades) can take longer-budget 30 minutes total to be safe.
My LG TV is from 2018 - will it still get updates?
Models from 2019 and earlier are outside the Re:New program's 5-year window and won't receive major webOS version upgrades. However, they may still receive occasional critical security patches. The USB manual update method works for any model that has firmware available on LG's support site-so you can still install whatever LG makes available, even if proactive updates stop arriving. If you're curious about how long you can expect your TV to remain useful overall, our article on how long is lg tv warranty covers coverage windows and what they include.
What should I do before updating my LG TV?
Note your current firmware version, ensure a stable power connection, close streaming apps to free memory, and for the USB method, have a FAT32-formatted USB drive ready with the correct firmware in the LG_DTV folder. Spending two minutes on preparation prevents most update failures.
What happens if the power goes out during an LG TV update?
A power interruption during firmware installation can corrupt the firmware and potentially brick the TV. Always use a surge protector, and never manually power off during an update. If power loss occurs, try a hard reset by unplugging for 60 seconds, then plug back in. If the TV doesn't recover, a USB firmware reinstall or professional service may be needed.
Why does my TV keep showing "firmware update available" but won't install?
This notification may actually be from a connected device-an AV receiver, Roku, or gaming console connected via HDMI-rather than from the TV itself. Check all HDMI-connected devices for pending updates before troubleshooting the TV. If it's definitely from the TV, try the USB method to bypass any server-side issues preventing the OTA update.
Is it safe to update LG TV firmware via USB?
Yes-USB updates are safe and reliable when done correctly. The three things that matter: FAT32 formatting, correct LG_DTV folder naming, and downloading the firmware file that matches your exact TV model. Don't remove the USB drive or cut power during installation, and you'll be fine. After a successful update, smart home integrations like Alexa may need to be reconnected-see how to connect lg tv to alexa if needed.
Conclusion - Keep Your LG TV Updated for the Best Experience
Updating your LG TV's firmware isn't complicated once you know which path to take. Connected to the internet? Use the OTA method-it takes under 15 minutes. No internet access? The USB method works on every LG webOS TV ever made. Having trouble? The troubleshooting section covers every common failure scenario with specific fixes.
The single most important takeaway: don't skip the power cycle after downloading an OTA update. More people report "failed" updates than actually experience them-they just forgot to restart the TV after the download finished.
Going forward, check for updates at least once a month if you've disabled auto-updates. If you leave auto-updates on, do a manual check after LG announces major webOS version releases (usually around CES in January each year, with rollouts following later). LG's Re:New program means even a TV purchased in 2022 continues receiving meaningful upgrades through 2027-a commitment that sets LG apart in the smart TV market.
Bookmark this page. Firmware update procedures don't change often, but new webOS versions bring new features worth knowing about. When webOS 26 starts rolling out to older models later this year, the same OTA and USB methods covered here will apply. Updated features that come with newer firmware-like AirPlay support for Apple users wanting to how to airplay to lg tv or improved screen sharing through how to screen share on lg tv and how to screen mirror on lg tv-make keeping your firmware current well worth the effort.