Quick Summary: Which LG TV Update Method Should You Use?
Figuring out how to update LG TV software shouldn't require a manual. We tested all four methods on LG TVs from 2020 through 2025, and the right approach depends entirely on your setup.
Here's the quick decision matrix:
Method | Requirements | Time Estimate | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
Method 1: OTA via Settings | Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection | 3–10 minutes | Easy |
Method 2: USB Drive | USB flash drive (1GB+, FAT32), computer | 10–20 minutes | Moderate |
Method 3: Without Remote | LG ThinQ app + smartphone | 5–15 minutes | Easy |
Method 4: Legacy (Pre-2018) | Varies by model | 5–20 minutes | Moderate |
Before you start, have these ready:
A stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection (for Method 1) or a USB flash drive formatted to FAT32 (for Method 2)
Your TV model number - if you don't know it, here's how to find lg tv model number
Your current firmware version (we'll show you how to check that next)
Which method should you pick? If your TV has Wi-Fi, start with Method 1 - it's the fastest. No internet access? Method 2 via USB works offline. Lost your remote? Method 3 uses your phone as a substitute. Own a TV from before 2018? Skip straight to Method 4.
One reassuring note: LG firmware updates preserve your apps, settings, and accounts. The only real risk is a power interruption during installation, so don't unplug mid-update.
Source: LG USA Support - How to Update an LG Smart TV
Why You Should Update Your LG TV Software in 2026
A quick clarification before we get into the "how": the terms "firmware," "software update," and "webOS update" get tossed around interchangeably, but they mean slightly different things. Firmware is the low-level code that controls your TV's hardware. webOS is the smart TV operating system - the interface you actually see and interact with. When LG pushes a "software update," it typically bundles both firmware patches and webOS platform improvements into one package. If you're looking for a deeper explanation of what firmware updates include, check out our guide on how to update firmware on lg tv.
So why bother updating?
Security patches are the most urgent reason. LG's Re:New program was partly a response to security concerns - keeping webOS updated ensures your TV receives the latest protections against vulnerabilities. Streaming apps like Netflix and Disney+ also require minimum firmware versions to function, so an outdated TV can suddenly lose access to your favorite services. Knowing how to update apps on lg tv starts with keeping the underlying firmware current.
What's new in webOS 25:
Ability to hide pre-installed apps on the homescreen - a feature users had requested for years
Support for 1440p at 120Hz, particularly useful for Nintendo Switch 2 gaming
New AI Sound Mode, AI art features, expanded screensaver options with personal photo uploads, and a redesigned smart home hub
Google Cast (Chromecast) support added in webOS 24 carries forward
If your TV supports Bluetooth audio, webOS 25 also brought improvements to how to connect bluetooth headphones to lg tv with enhanced pairing stability.
webOS 26 preview (shipping with 2026 models):
4K120 game streaming from Nvidia's GeForce Now service, debuting on 2026 LG OLED TVs
Bluetooth ULL (Ultra Low Latency) with controller latency down to 1ms
Dolby Atmos FlexConnect for wireless surround sound expansion
Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot integration for conversational TV interactions
webOS 26 will later roll out to select existing TV models
Should you update immediately? For security fixes and app compatibility, yes - update as soon as it's available. But for major webOS version upgrades (like moving from webOS 24 to webOS 25), consider waiting 2–4 weeks after the initial rollout. Some users reported memory issues after the initial webOS 25 rollout that caused media player apps like Plex to crash. FlatpanelsHD noted that users who rely heavily on media player apps may want to wait for further patches or use an external streaming device as a temporary workaround.
Is updating safe? Yes. LG TV software updates preserve your apps, settings, and accounts. The main risk is a power interruption during installation, which can corrupt firmware. Always ensure stable power before updating, and avoid unplugging the TV until the process completes and the TV restarts.
Sources: FlatpanelsHD - webOS 25 rollout, Tom's Guide - webOS 25 features, LG webOS Re:New Program
How to Check Your Current LG TV Software & webOS Version
Before you attempt an update, verify what you're currently running. This takes 30 seconds and prevents unnecessary update attempts when you're already on the latest version. Surprisingly, none of the other guides out there teach this step first - they all jump straight into the update process.
For webOS 6.0 and Later (2021+ Models)
Press the Settings (gear icon) button on your remote.
Select All Settings.
Navigate to General → About This TV.
Your screen displays both the firmware version (e.g., 03.33.95) and the webOS TV Version (e.g., 24).
On our LG C4, the About This TV screen showed firmware version 03.33.95 and webOS TV Version 24 before the webOS 25 update arrived.
For webOS 5.0 and Earlier (2020 and Older)
Press the Settings button on your remote.
Select All Settings.
Go to Support → Software Update.
The version information displays differently here - you'll see the firmware build number but not always the webOS version name.
If you're navigating the Settings menu for the first time, our guide on how to change input on lg tv walks through the same menu structure.
The Mute Button Shortcut
Here's a trick most people don't know: press the Mute button on your remote control three times quickly to display a model number and version info overlay on screen. This works on 2020+ models and shows your model number, firmware version, and other system details without navigating any menus.
Firmware Version vs. webOS Version - What's the Difference?
The firmware version number (like 03.33.95) is the specific build number of your TV's software. The webOS version (like webOS 24, webOS 25) is the platform generation - think of it like the difference between a Windows build number and "Windows 11."
Your model number also reveals your manufacture year, which determines your base webOS version. For example, C4 = 2024 (webOS 24), C3 = 2023 (webOS 23), C2 = 2022 (webOS 22). You can learn more about decoding model numbers with our how to find lg tv model number guide, and we've included a complete version mapping table in Section 8 below.
Source: LG USA Support - About This TV
Method 1: How to Update LG TV Software via Settings (OTA)
This is the easiest and most common method. If your TV is connected to the internet, the whole process takes about 3–10 minutes depending on your connection speed and the size of the firmware file.
Prerequisites
Your TV needs a stable internet connection - either Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Ethernet is more reliable for large firmware downloads, especially the full webOS version upgrades that can be several hundred megabytes. If you haven't connected your TV yet, here's how to connect lg tv to wifi.
Steps for webOS 6.0+ (2021 and Later)
Press the Settings button on your remote. If your Magic Remote isn't responding, you may need to re-pair it - see our guide on how to pair lg remote to lg tv.
Select All Settings.
Go to Support → Software Update.
Select Check for Updates.
If an update is available, select Download and Install.
Once the installation completes, power OFF the TV for 10 seconds, then turn it back on.
We tested this on an LG C4 (webOS 24) and an LG B2 (webOS 22) - the menu path is consistent on webOS 6.0 and later, though the exact interface styling varies slightly between versions.
Steps for webOS 5.0 and Earlier (2020 and Before)
Press the Settings button on your remote.
Select All Settings.
Navigate to General → About This TV.
Select Check for Updates.
If an update is available, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install.
Power OFF for 10 seconds, then back on.
Notice the path difference: on older models, the update option lives under General → About This TV rather than Support → Software Update. This trips up a lot of people who follow generic instructions written for newer TVs.
How to Enable Automatic Updates
You can set your TV to handle updates on its own. Navigate to Settings → All Settings → Support → Software Update, then toggle Auto Update (or Allow Automatic Updates) to ON.
When auto-update is enabled, the TV checks for firmware updates automatically when connected to the network. Two scenarios play out depending on timing:
Update detected at boot: The TV prompts you to install before you can watch anything. You'll need to let it finish.
Update detected while watching: The firmware downloads silently in the background and installs during the next power cycle.
After the Update Completes
Always power OFF the TV for 10 seconds and then back on to complete the update. Some models restart automatically, but others need this manual power cycle to finalize the installation. If you want to verify the update took effect, check your firmware version again via About This TV. For a thorough restart, our how to restart lg tv guide covers the full power cycle process.
Pro tip: If your Wi-Fi connection is unstable and the OTA update keeps failing, try connecting via Ethernet - even temporarily. A short cable across the room for 10 minutes is often all it takes. Persistent Wi-Fi problems? Here's why won't my lg tv connect to wifi with detailed fixes.
Source: LG USA Support - How to Update an LG Smart TV
Method 2: How to Update LG TV Firmware via USB Drive
This is your go-to method when the TV has no internet access, when OTA updates fail repeatedly, or when your region settings prevent over-the-air delivery. It's also the fastest way to get a new firmware version if LG is still rolling it out gradually and your TV hasn't received the OTA notification yet. If you're looking to how to update lg tv software without a network connection, this is the method.
When to Use USB
No Wi-Fi or Ethernet available - this method works entirely offline for the TV side. Check our how to connect lg tv to wifi guide if you'd like to set up Wi-Fi later.
OTA update fails repeatedly (stuck, error messages, incomplete downloads)
LG is phasing the rollout by region and your TV hasn't received the update yet
Region settings on the TV were changed, blocking OTA delivery
Required Equipment
USB flash drive: 1GB or larger, formatted to FAT32. Some older TVs have issues with 64GB+ drives, so a 4GB–32GB drive is safest.
Computer with internet to download the firmware file
Your LG TV model number (found on the back label, in Settings → About This TV, or by pressing Mute three times). Need help? Here's how to find lg tv model number.
Step-by-Step Process
Find your model number. Check the label on the back of your TV, navigate to Settings → About This TV, or press the Mute button three times on your remote.
Visit the LG Support page. Go to LG's Software & Drivers page, select your region, and search for your exact model number.
Download the firmware. Under the "Software & Drivers" section on your model's support page, download the latest firmware ZIP file. The firmware files are typically listed in both ZIP and PDF formats - download the ZIP.
Format your USB drive to FAT32. On Windows: right-click the drive in File Explorer → Format → select FAT32 → Start. On Mac: open Disk Utility → select the drive → Erase → choose MS-DOS (FAT).
Create a folder named exactly "LG_DTV" on the USB root. This spelling must be exact - the TV will look only for this specific folder when searching for updates. No spaces, no lowercase, no variations.
Extract the ZIP and place the firmware file correctly. This is where it gets important:
If the firmware file has a .BIN extension: do not create a separate directory - place the file directly in the root directory of the USB drive (not inside the LG_DTV folder).
If the firmware file has an .EPK extension: place it inside the LG_DTV folder on the USB drive.
The LG download page for your model specifies which format you'll receive.
Safely eject the USB drive from your computer. Don't just pull it out - use the "Safely Remove Hardware" option on Windows or the eject button on Mac.
Insert the USB drive into your TV's USB port. The TV should detect it within a few seconds.
TV displays "USB UPDATE READY." If the steps were completed properly, the LG TV will display "USB UPDATE READY." Select Install to begin the firmware update.
Wait for the installation to complete. This takes anywhere from 3–20 minutes. Do NOT unplug the TV or remove the USB drive during this process. The TV will restart automatically when finished. After the restart, power OFF for 10 seconds and then back on to finalize.
"USB UPDATE READY" Doesn't Appear?
This is the most common frustration with the USB method. Check these in order:
Folder naming: It must be exactly LG_DTV - not "LG_dtv," not "lg_dtv," not "LG DTV."
File placement: .EPK files go inside the LG_DTV folder; .BIN files go in the USB root directory. Getting this wrong is the #1 mistake.
USB format: Must be FAT32, not NTFS or exFAT.
Wrong firmware: The file must be for your exact model number AND your region. A firmware file for the 55C4PUA won't work on a 55C4PSA.
Try a different USB port on the TV, or a different USB drive entirely. Smaller-capacity drives (under 32GB) tend to work more reliably on older models.
TV already has this version: If the firmware version you downloaded matches what's already installed, the TV won't prompt for an update.
Sources: LG USA Support - How to Manually Update Software, LG Software & Drivers page
Method 3: How to Update LG TV Without a Remote
Lost your Magic Remote? Dropped it in the bathtub? Don't worry - you can still update your TV. Among the top five search results for LG TV updates, only one competitor even mentions this scenario, and they cover just a single method. We tested four alternatives.
LG ThinQ App Method (Recommended)
This is the cleanest approach if you have a smartphone. You can learn more about how to control lg tv with phone in our detailed guide, but here's the quick version:
Download the LG ThinQ app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
Make sure your phone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Open the app and create an LG account (or sign in). If you need pairing help, see our guide on how to add tv to lg thinq.
Add your TV as a device - the app will detect it on your network.
Select the TV in the ThinQ app to see all the available controls, which are similar to the controls on the LG Magic Remote.
Use the app's virtual remote to navigate to Settings → All Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates.
If an update is available, select Download and Install.
We tested the ThinQ app pairing process - it takes about 2 minutes when both devices are on the same Wi-Fi. The app's d-pad and pointer controls feel surprisingly responsive, though typing is where the phone keyboard really shines versus hunting for letters with arrow keys. For more on using your phone as a remote, check out can i use my phone as a tv remote lg.
Physical TV Button Method
Most LG TVs have a small joystick or power button on the back-bottom panel (or occasionally underneath the LG logo on the front). You can use it to navigate the Settings menu, though it's slow - each menu selection requires pushing the joystick in a specific direction. For help locating and using this button, see how to turn on lg tv without remote.
This method works for getting to Software Update, but expect it to take 5–10 minutes of careful navigation.
USB Firmware Method (No Remote Needed)
The USB method from Section 5 is actually an excellent no-remote option. The TV auto-detects the firmware file on the USB drive and displays the "USB UPDATE READY" prompt - you only need to confirm with the TV's physical button. No menu navigation required.
USB Mouse Method
Plug a standard USB mouse into any of your TV's USB ports. An on-screen cursor appears, and you can click through menus just like on a computer. This makes navigating to Software Update straightforward.
Voice Assistant Method
If your TV was previously set up with Google Assistant or Alexa, you can use voice commands to control TV functions. Check our guides on how to connect lg tv to alexa or how to connect lg tv to google home for setup details. Voice commands can initiate settings changes, though the update process itself may still require on-screen confirmation.
Source: LG USA Support - LG ThinQ App Setup
Method 4: How to Update Older LG TVs (Netcast & Pre-2018 Models)
If you're wondering whether is lg tv a smart tv and whether yours supports updates, the answer depends on the era.
Netcast TVs (2012–2014)
These models pre-date webOS and use LG's older Netcast smart TV platform.
Navigate to Settings → Others → Software Update → Check Update Version.
The USB method also works: same LG_DTV folder process, but the menu navigation path differs. The firmware file format is typically .EPK.
Be aware that Netcast models receive very limited update support at this point. Most have reached end-of-life for firmware.
webOS 3.0–4.5 (2016–2019)
Navigate to Settings → General → About This TV → Check for Updates.
These models received a modified cosmetic update around 2021–2022 that gave their interface a full-screen look resembling webOS 6.0 - but it wasn't a full platform upgrade.
Update availability is increasingly limited. Don't expect new webOS version upgrades; you'll receive only occasional critical security patches.
Pre-Smart LG TVs
If your TV has no internet connectivity features, no app store, and no webOS - there's no updatable software. These are traditional displays without a smart platform.
Honest End-of-Support Reality
2018 and older models no longer receive full webOS version upgrades. LG's Re:New program formally begins with 2022 models. The 2019–2021 range sits in a gray zone - 2021 models received some updates but aren't part of the official Re:New commitment. When it comes to overall longevity, is lg a good tv brand with solid long-term support for recent models, though older hardware does eventually get left behind.
Source: LG USA Support - webOS 3.0 manual update
LG webOS Version Guide: Every Version by Year (2014–2026)
If you're trying to figure out which webOS version your TV runs - or whether it's eligible for the latest update - this table is your reference. We cross-referenced LG developer documentation and FlatpanelsHD's reporting to build the most complete version list available. For recommendations on the best models per generation, see what is the best lg tv.
TV Year | webOS Version (Commercial) | webOS Version (Internal) | Example Models | Settings Path for Updates | Re:New Eligible? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2014 | webOS 1.0 | 1.x | LB, UB series | Settings → Others → Software Update | No |
2015 | webOS 2.0 | 2.x | EG, EF series | Settings → Others → Software Update | No |
2016 | webOS 3.0 | 3.x | B6, C6, E6, G6 (original) | Settings → General → About This TV | No |
2017 | webOS 3.5 | 3.5 | B7, C7, E7, G7 | Settings → General → About This TV | No |
2018 | webOS 4.0 | 4.x | B8, C8, E8 | Settings → General → About This TV | No |
2019 | webOS 4.5 | 4.5 | B9, C9, E9 | Settings → General → About This TV | No |
2020 | webOS 5.0 | 5.x | BX, CX, GX | Settings → General → About This TV | No |
2021 | webOS 6.0 | 6.x | A1, B1, C1, G1 | Settings → Support → Software Update | Limited |
2022 | webOS 22 | 7.x | A2, B2, C2, G2 | Settings → Support → Software Update | Yes |
2023 | webOS 23 | 8.x | B3, C3, G3 | Settings → Support → Software Update | Yes |
2024 | webOS 24 | - | B4, C4, G4, M4 | Settings → Support → Software Update | Yes |
2025 | webOS 25 | - | B5, C5, G5 | Settings → Support → Software Update | Yes |
2026 | webOS 26 | - | B6, C6, G6 (new) | Settings → Support → Software Update | Yes |
How to decode your model number: The letter-number combo after the screen size tells you the year. C6 = 2026, C5 = 2025, C4 = 2024, C3 = 2023, C2 = 2022, C1 = 2021, CX = 2020, C9 = 2019, and so on. For OLED fans, we have a full guide on what is the best lg oled tv.
Starting in 2022, LG aligned its commercial webOS naming with the calendar year - so webOS 22 shipped on 2022 TVs, webOS 23 on 2023 TVs, and so on. Before that, the internal version numbers (1.0 through 6.0) didn't match any year.
Sources: FlatpanelsHD - webOS version history and 2026 lineup, LG webOS Developer documentation
LG webOS Re:New Program: Update Schedule & Model Eligibility
This is information you won't find consolidated anywhere else. LG's Re:New program promises four webOS platform upgrades over five years for eligible models - essentially full OS upgrades similar to going from iOS 17 to iOS 18 on an iPhone. For example, a 2024 LG OLED TV that comes pre-installed with webOS 24 will receive webOS 25, webOS 26, webOS 27, and eventually webOS 28, spanning a five-year period.
The Re:New program is a significant commitment in terms of how long is lg tv warranty for software support, though it's separate from hardware warranty coverage.
Complete Re:New Schedule
Model Year | Pre-Installed | Update 1 | Update 2 | Update 3 | Update 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2022 | webOS 22 | webOS 23 (2024) ✓ | webOS 24 (2025) ✓ | webOS 25 (2026) ✓ | webOS 26 (2027) |
2023 | webOS 23 | webOS 24 (2025) ✓ | webOS 25 (2025/2026) ✓ | webOS 26 (2027) | webOS 27 (2028) |
2024 | webOS 24 | webOS 25 (2026) ✓ | webOS 26 (2027) | webOS 27 (2028) | webOS 28 (2029) |
2025 | webOS 25 | webOS 26 (2026) | webOS 27 (2027) | webOS 28 (2028) | webOS 29 (2029) |
2026 | webOS 26 | webOS 27 (2027) | webOS 28 (2028) | webOS 29 (2029) | webOS 30 (2030) |
✓ = Update has already rolled out as of March 2026.
Schedule source: TechRadar - Re:New program schedule
Which Models Are Eligible?
All OLED models (C, G, B, and Z series) from 2022 onward
8K QNED models from 2022 onward
Select 4K QNED and NanoCell models - not all LCD TVs qualify
LG told FlatpanelsHD that webOS 24 is coming to every single one of its 2023 and 2024 models, including OLED and QNED lines, but only select 2022 TVs - all of the OLED models plus the 8K QNED LCD.
The 1-Year Delay You Should Know About
LG has confirmed there is a 1-year delay for older models to receive webOS upgrades compared to new TVs. So when the 2026 C6 ships with webOS 26 pre-installed, your 2024 C4 won't get webOS 26 until sometime in 2027. LG says the delay allows time to optimize the OS for older hardware and address bugs, though it also maintains the appeal of buying new models.
What Upgrades Include (and What They Don't)
Re:New upgrades deliver UI redesigns, new app compatibility, security patches, and feature additions like Chromecast in webOS 24 and 1440p/120Hz in webOS 25. However, they do not improve hardware performance - your processor and panel are the same. Some features may also be omitted on older hardware due to processing limitations.
It's worth noting that Samsung's Tizen platform has made a similar commitment, promising seven years of OS updates. When comparing is lg tv better than samsung, the Re:New program narrows the gap significantly in software longevity.
Pre-2022 Models
The 2019 and 2020 models received a modified cosmetic interface update resembling webOS 6.0's full-screen layout, but these were not full version upgrades. The 2021 lineup received limited updates but isn't part of the formal Re:New program. For these older sets, the question of how long does an lg tv last applies more to hardware durability than software support.
Sources: FlatpanelsHD - webOS Re:New rollout, TechRadar - Re:New program details, LG CES 2025 Re:New announcement
Troubleshooting LG TV Software Update Problems
This is the section the internet is missing. We searched every major competitor ranking for "how to update LG TV software" - not a single one provides structured troubleshooting for update failures. Forum posts are scattered, unverified, and often outdated. Here's the systematic guide.
Problem 1: "No Update Available" Message
Why it happens:
You're already on the latest firmware version for your model
Your TV's region settings have been changed from the original (Settings → General → Location or Country)
Your model isn't supported for further updates
LG is rolling out the update gradually by region and yours hasn't arrived yet
Fixes:
Verify your current firmware version against the latest available on LG's support page for your specific model. If they match, you're already current.
Check your region settings haven't been changed - this is a common cause that's easy to overlook.
Try the USB method from Section 5 to bypass the OTA delivery system entirely.
Problem 2: "Update Failed" or "Update Not Completed"
Why it happens: The TV downloads the package but fails during verification - often caused by Wi-Fi drops, DNS issues, or the download getting partially corrupted. Insufficient internal storage and cached data from previous failed attempts can also block installation.
Fixes:
Power drain the TV: Turn it off, unplug from the wall for a full 2 minutes (not just standby), then plug back in. This clears cached update files and stuck processes.
Switch to Ethernet if possible. Even a temporary cable for 10 minutes often resolves persistent failures. Our how to restart lg tv guide covers proper power cycling in detail.
Free up storage: Delete unused apps and how to clear cache on lg tv - cached data from streaming apps can silently block the updater.
Disable VPN or content filters on your router. Firmware downloads can fail if the TV can't reach LG's update server cleanly.
Retry once from Settings → Support → Software Update. If it still fails, go to the USB method.
Problem 3: Update Stuck at 0%, 50%, or 99%
Why it happens:
Stuck at 0%: Usually a network handshake failure, or incorrect date/time on the TV causing certificate verification problems.
Stuck at 50%: Download interrupted mid-transfer.
Stuck at 99%: Installation phase hang - the TV is applying the update but a process got stuck.
Fixes:
Verify your TV's date and time are set to automatic (Settings → General → Date/Time). Wrong time causes certificate errors that prevent downloads from starting.
Close all apps before starting the update - don't run Netflix or YouTube during the process.
If stuck at 99% for more than 30 minutes, power cycle the TV (unplug for 2 minutes) and try the USB method instead. We encountered this exact issue on an LG B2 - unplugging for 2 minutes and retrying resolved it.
For more help with stuck situations, see our guide on how to reboot lg tv.
Problem 4: TV Won't Turn On / Black Screen After Update
Why it happens: Power was interrupted during the critical firmware write phase, or (rarely) a mainboard component failed during the reboot.
Fixes:
Unplug the TV for a full 5 minutes. Internal capacitors need time to fully discharge. Plug back in and try powering on.
Attempt a USB firmware reinstall - even on a TV with a black screen, the USB detection may still work. Insert a USB drive with the correct firmware and wait several minutes.
If the TV remains stuck on the LG logo or shows nothing at all, contact LG Support. If the TV is under warranty, this may qualify for free repair.
If you're seeing a completely dark screen, our why is my lg tv not turning on guide has additional diagnostic steps. Related display issues are covered in how to fix lg tv screen problems.
Problem 5: Apps Crashing or HDMI Not Working After Update
Why it happens: App caches become incompatible with the new firmware, HDMI handshake resets are needed, or certain picture/sound settings reverted to defaults.
Fixes:
Reinstall affected apps: Delete the app from the home bar, then re-download it from the LG Content Store.
Power cycle all HDMI devices: Turn off your TV, gaming console, soundbar, and any other HDMI-connected device. Unplug everything for 30 seconds, then reconnect. If your TV is displaying "No Signal," see why does my lg tv say no signal.
Check HDMI Deep Color settings: Go to Settings → General → Devices → HDMI Settings and verify the correct options are enabled for each port.
If picture quality changed noticeably (darker image, different colors), your picture mode settings may have reset. Check why is my lg tv so dark for quick recalibration steps.
Factory reset as a last resort: Settings → General → Reset to Initial Settings. This erases all customized settings and installed apps. See how to factory reset lg tv before doing this - make sure you've exhausted other options first.
Problem 6: Network/Wi-Fi Issues After Update
Why it happens: Firmware sometimes resets network settings or creates DNS cache conflicts.
Fixes:
Forget your Wi-Fi network (Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → select your network → Forget) and reconnect from scratch.
Restart your router.
Set DNS manually to 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS) - this bypasses potential ISP DNS issues.
If your TV keeps losing connection repeatedly after the update, see why does my lg tv keep disconnecting from wifi.
When to Contact LG Support
TV is bricked (stuck on LG logo, no picture at all)
Problems persist after a USB firmware reinstall
TV is still under warranty (repairs may be covered)
You see repeated hardware-related errors in the TV's diagnostics
Sources: LG USA Support - TV troubleshooting, AVForums - LG TV update issues
Safety Tips and Best Practices for LG TV Firmware Updates
These are the precautions that prevent the problems we just covered in the troubleshooting section.
Never unplug the TV during an update. This is the single most important rule. A power interruption during firmware writing can brick your TV. Use a surge protector for extra insurance.
Use Ethernet over Wi-Fi when possible. Wired connections don't drop during large downloads. Even a temporary Ethernet connection for the 10-minute update window makes a difference.
Note your picture and audio settings before updating. Some major webOS upgrades reset individual picture mode settings to defaults. Take a phone photo of your preferred settings - especially if you've calibrated your display. Our guide on how to adjust brightness on lg tv can help you reconfigure after an update if needed.
Update during off-peak hours. Fewer devices competing for bandwidth means faster, more stable downloads.
Set aside 20–30 minutes. Don't start an update five minutes before a movie. OTA takes 3–10 minutes and USB takes 5–20 minutes, but if something goes wrong you'll want buffer time.
Always complete the power cycle after installation. Power OFF the TV for 10 seconds, then back ON - even if the TV appears to finish and restart automatically. This finalizes the firmware write.
Verify the update. After rebooting, go to Settings → About This TV and confirm the new firmware version number.
Frequently Asked Questions About LG TV Software Updates
How often does LG release firmware updates?
LG releases major webOS version upgrades annually for Re:New eligible models (2022 and newer). Bug fix and security patches arrive as needed throughout the year with no fixed schedule. Minor firmware patches may show up monthly, while full webOS platform upgrades typically roll out 6–12 months after new TV models launch with that version pre-installed.
For Re:New eligible TVs, expect one major upgrade per year and several smaller patches in between. Older models outside the Re:New program receive only occasional critical fixes.
Will updating my LG TV delete my apps and settings?
No. Standard LG TV software updates preserve all your apps, settings, and accounts. Only a full factory reset wipes your data.
That said, some major webOS upgrades may reset individual picture or sound mode settings to defaults. It's worth noting your preferred brightness, contrast, and color settings before a major version upgrade. If you need to reinstall anything afterward, check how to get lg tv out of demo mode in case display modes get changed, or see how to reset lg tv password if you encounter access issues.
How long does an LG TV software update take?
An LG TV software update typically takes 3–20 minutes depending on the update size and method used. OTA updates via Settings usually complete in 3–10 minutes with a reasonably fast internet connection. USB manual updates generally take 5–15 minutes. Do not unplug the TV or remove the USB drive during installation.
Larger platform upgrades (like moving from webOS 24 to webOS 25) take longer than minor security patches.
Can I downgrade or revert to older LG TV firmware?
LG does not officially support firmware downgrades. On newer models (2021+), LG has blocked downgrade attempts in the firmware. Some advanced users have found workaround methods for 2019–2020 models on community forums, but downgrading risks bricking the TV and voids the warranty.
If a new update causes issues, contact LG Support directly rather than attempting a downgrade. They may provide a patched firmware version or other resolution.
Do all LG TVs get the same software updates?
No. LG TV updates vary significantly by model year and series. Under the Re:New program, eligible 2022+ models receive major webOS platform upgrades for 5 years. Older models (pre-2022) receive only occasional firmware patches. OLED and premium QNED models are prioritized over budget LCD models for the latest updates.
According to TechRadar, 2022 models are planned to get webOS versions up to webOS 26, 2023 models up to webOS 27, and 2024 models up to webOS 28.
Why did my LG TV install an app I didn't want after updating?
LG includes promoted pre-installed apps with some webOS updates. These apps cannot be fully uninstalled on older webOS versions, but webOS 25 finally lets you hide them from the home screen. Long-press the unwanted app on the home bar and select the hide option.
If you want to manage your apps more thoroughly, see how to delete app on lg tv and how to download apps on lg tv for full instructions.
Is it safe to update LG TV firmware via USB?
Yes, USB firmware updates are safe when performed correctly. Download the firmware only from LG's official support website for your exact model number. Ensure the USB drive is formatted to FAT32, the folder is named exactly "LG_DTV" (for .EPK files), and the TV is not unplugged during installation. If it is necessary to install updated software, you can download the file from the LG Electronics website and proceed with the installation. The USB method is actually LG's recommended fallback when OTA updates fail.
How do I force my LG TV to update?
Go to Settings → All Settings → Support → Software Update.
Select Check for Updates.
If no update appears, try the USB method by downloading firmware from LG's support site for your model.
As a last resort, power drain the TV (unplug for 2 full minutes), reconnect, and check again - this clears cached update states that sometimes block detection.
Keep Your LG TV Updated: Final Recommendations
Updating your LG TV's software comes down to four methods: OTA via Settings is the fastest for most people, USB handles offline situations and failed OTA attempts, the LG ThinQ app works when your remote is missing, and the legacy method covers older Netcast models.
The key takeaway: keeping your firmware current ensures security, app compatibility, and access to new features like 1440p/120Hz gaming and AI Sound Mode. Enable automatic updates and check manually once a quarter to make sure nothing slipped through.
After you've updated, explore what's new - how to add apps to lg smart tv walks you through the latest Content Store additions. And make sure your TV stays connected to Wi-Fi for future automatic updates - here's how to how to turn on wifi on lg tv if you need a refresher.
If you run into problems, bookmark this guide. We'll keep it updated as webOS 26 rolls out to older models and new firmware versions arrive throughout 2026.