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Contents0/45
Quick Answer: Is LG TV a Smart TV?What Makes an LG TV a Smart TV?Are All LG TVs Smart TVs? A Year-by-Year BreakdownHow to Check If Your LG TV Is a Smart TV (6 Easy Methods)→Method 1: The Remote Control Test→Method 2: Home Screen Check→Method 3: Settings Menu Wi-Fi/Network Check→Method 4: Model Number Lookup→Method 5: LG Content Store Check→Method 6: Check for a Built-in Web BrowserHow to Find and Decode Your LG TV Model Number→Three Ways to Find It→OLED Model Number Decoder→LED/QNED Model Number Decoder→Year Letter Reference→LG Product Line HierarchyWhat Is LG webOS? Smart TV Operating System Versions Explained→The Origin Story→webOS Version History→webOS 26: What's New in 2026→The webOS Re:New ProgramLG Smart TV Features, Apps, and Capabilities in 2026→Streaming and Apps→LG Channels→Voice Control→Screen Mirroring and Casting→Gaming Features→Smart Home Integration→AI Features (2026)LG webOS vs Samsung Tizen vs Google TV: Smart TV Platform Comparison→Where webOS Wins→Where webOS Falls Short→The VerdictWhat to Do If Your LG TV Is Not a Smart TV→Recommended Streaming Devices (March 2026)Frequently Asked Questions About LG Smart TVs→Do all LG Smart TVs have built-in Wi-Fi?→Can I use an LG Smart TV without internet?→Can I use my phone as a remote for LG Smart TV?→How long will my LG Smart TV receive software updates?→Is LG Smart TV worth it in 2026?→Can I add apps that aren't in the LG Content Store?→Do LG Smart TVs have Bluetooth?→How do I factory reset my LG Smart TV?Conclusion: Is Your LG TV a Smart TV?
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Is LG TV a Smart TV? The Complete Guide to LG Smart TV Features, Identification & Models (2026)

Find out if your LG TV is a smart TV. Learn how to identify smart features, understand webOS versions, decode model numbers, and discover what to do if your LG TV isn't smart. Updated for 2026.

Aman Singh
Written by Aman Singh
Aman Singh
Written by

Aman Singh

Passionate about technology and helping readers make informed decisions about their gadget purchases.

Last updated on March 24, 2026

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission (at no extra charge), which we use to fund new product tests. Learn more.

Quick Answer: Is LG TV a Smart TV?

Yes. Virtually every LG TV manufactured since 2014 is a smart TV. They all run LG's proprietary webOS operating system, which gives you built-in Wi-Fi, streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube, voice control, and screen mirroring-no external devices needed.

Older LG TVs from the 2012–2013 era used the earlier NetCast smart platform, which offered basic internet functionality. Models made before 2012 are standard, non-smart televisions.

The quickest way to confirm? Press the Home button on your LG remote. If a row of app icons appears across the bottom of your screen, you've got a smart TV. This guide walks you through every method for verifying, explains what features you can access, breaks down LG's model numbering system, and covers what to do if your LG TV turns out to be a non-smart model. Wondering if it's worth the investment? See our take on whether is lg a good tv.


What Makes an LG TV a Smart TV?

A smart TV connects to the internet on its own-without a Roku, Fire Stick, or any other add-on box. It has built-in software that runs streaming apps, responds to voice commands, and communicates with your other smart devices. A standard TV, by contrast, is just a display. It shows whatever you feed it through an antenna, cable box, or HDMI connection, and that's it.

LG Smart TVs run on webOS, a Linux-based operating system that LG adapted specifically for television. This is not Android TV, and it's not Samsung's Tizen. If you've ever wondered "is lg tv android"-it isn't. webOS is LG's own platform, and it controls everything from the home screen layout to app management to how voice assistants respond.

When you power on an LG Smart TV, the webOS home screen loads with a row of streaming app tiles along the bottom-Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Apple TV+, and others come pre-installed. From that same interface, you can access the LG Content Store for additional apps, adjust picture and audio settings, and connect to smart home devices.

Here are the five core capabilities that make any LG TV "smart":

  • Internet connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet allow direct connection to your home network. If you need help getting online, here's how to how to connect lg tv to wifi.

  • Built-in streaming apps: Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and hundreds more are available through the LG Content Store, with major services pre-installed out of the box.

  • Voice control: Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are built into the Magic Remote's microphone. Search for content, control volume, launch apps, or check the weather by voice.

  • Screen mirroring and casting: Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in (webOS 24 and later), and LG Screen Share (Miracast) allow you to cast from iPhones, Android phones, laptops, and tablets.

  • Smart home integration: The LG ThinQ ecosystem connects your TV to compatible lights, thermostats, cameras, and other IoT devices, with support for Matter, Thread, Apple Home, and Zigbee.

In 2026, smart functionality comes standard on virtually every television sold by major manufacturers. Non-smart TVs from LG-or any brand-are essentially impossible to find at retail. If you're evaluating LG as a brand, check out our analysis of whether is lg a good tv brand.


Are All LG TVs Smart TVs? A Year-by-Year Breakdown

Not every LG TV ever made is a smart TV-but every current model sold today absolutely is. The distinction comes down to when the TV was manufactured.

LG's journey to smart TV status happened in stages. Before 2012, the company produced conventional televisions with zero internet capability. No apps, no streaming, no connected features. These were purely display-and-broadcast devices.

In 2012, LG introduced its first internet-connected TVs running the NetCast platform. These were technically "smart" in the sense that they could access the internet and run a limited selection of apps. But the interface was sluggish, the app library was small, and the experience felt like an afterthought compared to what streaming devices offered at the time.

The real transformation came in 2014. LG had acquired webOS from Hewlett-Packard in February 2013-a platform originally designed by Palm for smartphones. LG rebuilt webOS from the ground up for television, and every LG TV from 2014 onward has shipped with webOS as its operating system. That's over a decade of consistent smart TV production.

If you're trying to figure out which era your TV belongs to, finding your model number helps enormously. Our guide on how to find lg tv model number walks you through that process in detail.

Here's the complete timeline:

Era

Years

Platform

Smart Capabilities

Status in 2026

Pre-Smart

Before 2012

None

No internet, no apps, broadcast only

Not smart-requires streaming device

NetCast Era

2012–2013

NetCast

Basic internet, limited apps, slow interface

Technically smart but extremely limited

Early webOS

2014–2020

webOS 1.0–5.0

Full smart TV: apps, streaming, voice control

Smart-most no longer receive updates

Modern webOS

2021–2023

webOS 6.0–23

Full-screen UI, Chromecast, expanded apps

Smart-receiving Re:New updates

AI-Powered webOS

2024–2026

webOS 24–26

AI Hub, Gemini, Copilot, LG Shield

Smart-current generation

Today's 2026 lineup-including OLED models (G6, C6, B6), QNED Mini LED, and UHD series-all run webOS 26 and come with the full suite of smart capabilities. According to Omdia market research, LG has led global OLED TV shipments for 12 consecutive years, shipping 3.18 million OLED units in 2024 alone with over 52% market share. That dominance is built entirely on smart TV models.

The LG OLED evo G6 starts at $2,499 and the C6 at $1,399, with retail availability beginning March 2026. For a deeper look at webOS and how it compares to competitors, see our article is lg tv a smart tv section on platform comparisons.


How to Check If Your LG TV Is a Smart TV (6 Easy Methods)

Not sure whether your specific LG TV has smart features? These six methods will give you a definitive answer. I've tested each one across multiple LG TV generations, and they work whether you have a 2015 budget model or a brand-new 2026 OLED.

Start with Method 1-it takes about three seconds. If that's inconclusive, work through the remaining methods.

Method 1: The Remote Control Test

Press the Home (house icon) button on your LG remote. On a smart LG TV, the webOS interface slides up from the bottom of the screen with a horizontal row of app tiles-Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, LG Channels, and others.

If you're using a Magic Remote (the one with the pointer that moves like a cursor on screen), your TV is definitely smart. LG has only ever included Magic Remotes with webOS-equipped smart TVs. If your remote isn't working or needs reconnecting, here's how to how to pair lg remote to lg tv.

If pressing Home does nothing, or if you see only a basic menu with input selection and channel settings, your TV likely isn't smart.

Method 2: Home Screen Check

Smart LG TVs display a webOS home screen every time you press Home. On models from 2021 onward (webOS 6.0+), this is a full-screen interface with large content cards and a customizable app launcher. Older webOS versions (1.0–5.0) show a transparent bar of app icons along the bottom of whatever you're currently watching.

Either way, the presence of streaming app tiles is your confirmation. Non-smart TVs have no home screen-just a channel list or input selector.

Method 3: Settings Menu Wi-Fi/Network Check

Navigate to Settings → General → Network (or Settings → Network on older models). If you see options for Wi-Fi Connection or Wired Connection (Ethernet), your TV has smart capabilities.

Non-smart LG TVs have no network settings at all. The menu simply doesn't include connectivity options. If you find the Wi-Fi settings and want to get connected, here's our walkthrough on how to turn on wifi on lg tv.

Method 4: Model Number Lookup

This is the most reliable method. Press the Mute button three times on your remote-on most LG TVs, this displays a model information overlay in the corner of the screen. Alternatively, go to Settings → General → About This TV (or TV Information).

Write down the full model number and cross-reference it with LG's product database at LG's support page, or use the decoder in Section 4 below. You can also find the model number on a label on the back or side of the TV chassis. For a detailed guide, see how to find lg tv model number.

Method 5: LG Content Store Check

Try navigating to the LG Content Store-LG's built-in app marketplace. On webOS TVs, you'll find it in the home screen launcher bar or in the app list. Its presence confirms you're running webOS and have a smart TV.

If you can access it, you can start installing additional apps. Here's how to how to download apps on lg tv beyond what comes pre-loaded.

Method 6: Check for a Built-in Web Browser

Smart LG TVs include a web browser accessible from the home screen or app list. Look for the Web Browser icon (it resembles a globe). You can browse the internet directly on your TV-slowly, but it works.

Non-smart TVs don't include any browser functionality. If you find it, that's another confirmation your LG TV has full smart capabilities.

Which method should you trust most? Method 4 (model number lookup) is the most definitive because it removes all guesswork. Method 1 (remote test) is the fastest. If both confirm the same answer, you can be 100% confident.


How to Find and Decode Your LG TV Model Number

Your model number tells you everything-whether your TV is smart, what year it was made, its product line tier, and even its screen size. Finding it takes about 30 seconds.

Three Ways to Find It

  1. On-screen shortcut: Press the Mute button three times rapidly. Most LG TVs display an information banner showing the model number in the bottom-left corner.

  2. Settings menu: Navigate to Settings → General → About This TV (or TV Information on older models). The model number is listed alongside software version and serial number.

  3. Physical label: Check the back panel or side of the TV. There's a sticker with the full model number, serial number, and manufacturing information.

OLED Model Number Decoder

Take a model like OLED65C6PUA:

Segment

Value

Meaning

OLED

Display type

OLED panel technology

65

Screen size

65-inch diagonal

C

Series

C-series (mid-range OLED)

6

Year

2026 model

P

Region

North America

UA

Market variant

US market, specific tuner

For OLED models, the number directly after the series letter indicates the year: C3 = 2023, C4 = 2024, C5 = 2025, C6 = 2026.

LED/QNED Model Number Decoder

For a model like 65QNED80UBA:

Segment

Value

Meaning

65

Screen size

65-inch diagonal

QNED

Display type

QNED (Quantum NanoCell)

80

Series tier

80-series (mid-range)

UB

Year indicator

2026 (UB designation)

A

Region/variant

Specific market variant

Year Letter Reference

Year Code

Year

Example Models

0 / UN

2020

CX, BX, Nano

1 / UP

2021

C1, G1, QNED

2 / UQ

2022

C2, G2, QNED

3 / UR

2023

C3, G3, QNED

T / UT

2024

C4, G4, QNED

5 / UA

2025

C5, G5, QNED

6 / UB

2026

C6, G6, B6, QNED

LG Product Line Hierarchy

LG organizes its TV lineup into clear tiers. Here's how they stack up in 2026:

  • OLED (Premium): The G6 is the flagship gallery-style model, the C6 is the popular mid-range performer, and the B6 is the value-oriented entry point to OLED. For help choosing, see our guide on what is the best lg oled tv.

  • QNED (Mid-Range): Mini LED-backlit LCD TVs that sit below OLED in picture quality but offer larger screen sizes at lower prices, including the new 115-inch QNED90B.

  • UHD (Entry-Level): Standard 4K LCD TVs at the most accessible price points. Still fully smart with webOS 26.

Every TV across all three tiers is a smart TV running webOS. The differences are in display technology, picture quality, and premium features-not in smart capabilities. For a broader view, check out what is the best lg tv for our full recommendations.


What Is LG webOS? Smart TV Operating System Versions Explained

webOS is the Linux-based operating system that powers every LG Smart TV. It manages everything you interact with-the home screen, app library, settings, voice control, streaming services, and smart home connections. Think of it as the "brain" of your LG TV's smart features.

The Origin Story

webOS wasn't originally built for televisions. Palm, Inc. created it in 2009 as a mobile operating system for smartphones. When HP acquired Palm, it eventually decided to abandon the platform. In February 2013, HP sold webOS to LG Electronics, which saw its potential as a TV operating system to replace the sluggish NetCast platform. LG launched its first webOS-powered TVs in 2014, and the platform has been the backbone of every LG Smart TV since.

webOS Version History

The platform has evolved significantly over the past decade:

Version

Year

Key Changes

webOS 1.0

2014

First TV implementation; bottom launcher bar with Bean Bird setup assistant

webOS 2.0–3.5

2015–2018

Speed improvements, Magic Remote enhancements, expanded app library

webOS 4.0–4.5

2018–2019

ThinQ AI integration, Google Assistant and Alexa added

webOS 5.0

2020

New home screen design, AI recommendations

webOS 6.0

2021

Major redesign-full-screen home screen replaced bottom bar, Magic Remote with NFC

webOS 22–23

2022–2023

Chromecast built-in added, personal profiles, always-ready features

webOS 24

2024

AI Picture Wizard, multi-screen view, enhanced Chromecast

webOS 25

2025

AI Hub, Google Gemini integration, AI Sound Mode, 1440p 120Hz support

webOS 26

2026

Google Gemini + Microsoft Copilot AI, LG Shield security, Gallery+ AI art, improved speed

webOS 26: What's New in 2026

The current version is a substantial leap forward. According to LG's official C6 product page, webOS 26 introduces:

  • AI Hub with Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot: Conversational AI search that recommends content, answers questions, and adjusts TV settings through natural voice commands. Press the AI button on the remote to access it.

  • LG Shield: Built-in malware and virus protection that secures your smart TV from threats-a first for LG TVs.

  • Gallery+ with Generative AI: Display curated artwork, scenic photography, or AI-generated images when the TV isn't actively in use. Over 4,500 pieces of content are available.

  • 400+ free LG Channels with 10,000+ on-demand movies and shows, no subscription required.

  • Improved performance: LG claims webOS 26 is noticeably faster and smoother than previous versions, though FlatpanelsHD notes that it remains to be seen whether ad clutter has been reduced.

The webOS Re:New Program

One of LG's most consumer-friendly moves: the webOS Re:New Program provides up to four webOS upgrades over five years for TVs from 2022 onward. This means a 2024 TV that shipped with webOS 24 will receive upgrades through webOS 28.

There's a catch worth knowing about. According to FlatpanelsHD's reporting, these updates arrive with roughly a one-year delay compared to new TV models. So if webOS 26 ships on 2026 TVs in March, older models won't see that update until late 2026 or early 2027.

To keep your webOS current, check out our guides on how to update lg tv software and how to update firmware on lg tv.


LG Smart TV Features, Apps, and Capabilities in 2026

So your LG TV is confirmed smart-now what can you actually do with it? More than you might expect. Here's a complete breakdown of what's available on current LG Smart TVs.

Streaming and Apps

Every LG Smart TV comes with major streaming services pre-installed: Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Peacock, and Paramount+. Additional apps are available through the LG Content Store. For help adding more, see how to download apps on lg tv, and to keep everything current, check how to update apps on lg tv.

LG Channels

This is an underrated perk of owning an LG Smart TV. LG Channels provides over 400 free ad-supported streaming channels covering news, sports, entertainment, and movies-plus more than 10,000 on-demand titles. No subscription, no sign-up. Just an internet connection. It's essentially free cable.

Voice Control

The Magic Remote includes a built-in microphone with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Press and hold the microphone button to search for content across apps, adjust volume, launch specific apps, check the weather, or control compatible smart home devices. On 2026 models, the new AI button provides direct access to Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot for conversational AI queries. For managing voice settings, see how to turn off voice on lg tv.

Screen Mirroring and Casting

LG Smart TVs are platform-agnostic when it comes to casting-a genuine advantage over some competitors:

  • Apple AirPlay 2: Cast from iPhone, iPad, and Mac. See our full guide on how to airplay to lg tv and how to screen mirror iphone to lg tv.

  • Chromecast built-in (webOS 24+): Cast from Android phones, Chrome browser, and Chromebooks. Here's how to how to cast to lg tv.

  • LG Screen Share (Miracast): For wireless display mirroring from Windows and Android devices. See how to screen mirror on lg tv and how to screen share on lg tv.

  • DLNA: Stream media files from network-attached storage or compatible devices.

You can also connect your smartphone directly-here's how to connect phone to lg tv.

Gaming Features

LG's 2026 OLEDs are among the most gaming-capable TVs available. The C6 and G6 support 4K at 165Hz with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), NVIDIA G-Sync, and AMD FreeSync Premium. The Game Optimizer dashboard provides quick-access controls for gaming-specific settings. Check out how to turn on game mode on lg tv to optimize your setup.

LG's Gaming Portal offers access to NVIDIA GeForce NOW cloud gaming with 4K streaming on 2026 OLEDs, plus hundreds of casual titles playable with the Magic Remote. Bluetooth 5.3 with Ultra Low Latency (1ms) means wireless controllers and audio devices respond instantly. For audio, learn how to connect bluetooth headphones to lg tv.

Smart Home Integration

The LG ThinQ Home Dashboard lets you monitor and control compatible IoT devices directly from your TV screen. LG supports Matter with Thread, Apple Home, Homey (which LG acquired), Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Zigbee-making it one of the most versatile smart home hubs in the TV space. Get started with how to connect lg tv to alexa, how to connect lg tv to google home, and how to add tv to lg thinq.

AI Features (2026)

The headline addition for 2026 is the AI Hub, powered by Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot. It enables conversational AI interactions-ask your TV to recommend movies similar to ones you've enjoyed, get real-time sports stats, or have it generate personalized content suggestions. AI Picture Pro and AI Sound Pro automatically optimize visuals and create virtual 11.1.2 channel surround sound. LG Shield provides security protection against malware. And Gallery+ now includes generative AI that can turn your descriptions into custom artwork displayed on screen.

Note: Feature availability varies by model, region, and software version. Some AI features require an internet connection and may be subject to change.


LG webOS vs Samsung Tizen vs Google TV: Smart TV Platform Comparison

Choosing a smart TV often comes down to which operating system suits your habits. Here's an honest, side-by-side comparison of the major platforms in 2026.

Feature

LG webOS 26

Samsung Tizen

Google TV

Roku TV

Interface Style

Card-based launcher with full-screen home

One UI with customizable sidebar

Content-forward with recommendations

Simple grid layout

Voice Assistants

Google Assistant + Alexa + Gemini + Copilot

Bixby + Alexa

Google Assistant + Gemini

Roku Voice

App Store

LG Content Store

Samsung Apps

Google Play Store

Roku Channel Store

Casting Support

AirPlay 2 + Chromecast built-in

AirPlay 2 (no Chromecast)

Chromecast built-in (no AirPlay)

AirPlay 2 (select models)

Remote Type

Magic Remote (pointer + motion)

Standard directional remote

Voice remote with customizable button

Simple remote

HDR Formats

Dolby Vision + HDR10 + HLG

HDR10+ + HDR10 + HLG (no Dolby Vision)

Depends on TV brand

Depends on TV brand

Free Channels

400+ LG Channels

Samsung TV Plus

800+ free channels

The Roku Channel

AI Features

AI Hub (Gemini + Copilot)

Samsung AI (Vision AI)

Gemini for TV

Basic

Smart Home

Matter, Thread, Apple Home, Zigbee, Homey

SmartThings, Matter

Google Home, Matter, Thread

Limited

Update Program

Re:New (4 years)

Similar update program

Varies by manufacturer

Varies

Unique Strength

Dual casting (AirPlay + Chromecast), OLED excellence

Bright-room LCD performance, SmartThings ecosystem

Largest app library (Google Play)

Simplicity, neutral platform

Where webOS Wins

The Magic Remote's pointer interface feels more intuitive than traditional directional remotes-it works like moving a cursor on a computer screen. LG is also the only major TV brand offering both AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in simultaneously, which means it works equally well with Apple and Android households. The AI Hub with both Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot gives webOS the widest AI assistant support of any platform. For a deeper comparison, check is lg tv better than samsung.

Where webOS Falls Short

webOS doesn't have Google Play Store access, so the total app count is smaller than Google TV. Some niche or regional apps never make it to the LG Content Store. Recent webOS versions have also introduced more advertising on the home screen-a common complaint among users and something FlatpanelsHD has tracked closely.

The Verdict

There's no single "best" platform-it depends on your ecosystem and priorities. webOS excels for users who want top-tier OLED picture quality paired with versatile casting and strong AI features. Samsung's Tizen suits households deeply invested in SmartThings. Google TV is ideal if you want the broadest app selection and tight Google ecosystem integration. Roku keeps things dead simple.

Curious about specific casting capabilities? See whether your LG TV supports does lg tv have chromecast and does lg tv have airplay.


What to Do If Your LG TV Is Not a Smart TV

Discovered that your LG TV is a non-smart model? You're not stuck. Adding smart capabilities costs as little as $30–50, and setup takes under 10 minutes.

The solution: plug a streaming device into one of your TV's HDMI ports. Every option below connects to Wi-Fi and gives you access to the same streaming apps you'd find on a brand-new smart TV. Before you start, make sure you know how to change hdmi on lg tv and how to change input on lg tv.

Recommended Streaming Devices (March 2026)

Device

Price (MSRP)

Best For

Key Feature

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

~$50

Most users-simplicity and value

Neutral platform, clean interface, Dolby Vision

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

~$60

Alexa/Amazon ecosystem users

Wi-Fi 6E, Dolby Atmos + Vision, Alexa built-in

Google TV Streamer 4K

~$100

Google/Android ecosystem users

Matter/Thread hub, 32GB storage, Gemini for TV

Apple TV 4K

~$129

Apple ecosystem users

AirPlay, Apple Arcade, tvOS, Thread support

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the best pick for most people. It's affordable, the interface is clean without heavy ad promotion, and it plays nicely with every major streaming service regardless of your phone or computer ecosystem.

If your TV is older than 10 years, you might consider upgrading to a new LG Smart TV entirely. Current LG UHD (entry-level 4K) models start under $250 and include the full webOS 26 smart platform built in-no accessories needed. For broadcast TV without a streaming device, see how to connect antenna to lg tv and how to get local channels on lg tv without antenna.

One thing to verify before buying a streaming device: make sure your non-smart LG TV has at least one HDMI port. Most LG TVs manufactured after 2008 include HDMI, but very old CRT or early flat-panel models may not.


Frequently Asked Questions About LG Smart TVs

Do all LG Smart TVs have built-in Wi-Fi?

Yes. Every current LG Smart TV includes built-in Wi-Fi and most also offer an Ethernet port for wired connections. Navigate to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Connection to select your home network. If you need assistance, here's how to connect lg tv to wifi.

Can I use an LG Smart TV without internet?

You can watch cable, antenna broadcasts, or HDMI-connected devices without an internet connection. However, streaming apps, voice control, screen mirroring, software updates, and LG Channels all require Wi-Fi or Ethernet. The TV still functions as a display-you just lose the "smart" features.

Can I use my phone as a remote for LG Smart TV?

Yes. Download the free LG ThinQ app (available on iOS and Android) to use your smartphone as a full remote control. Both your phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network. The app also enables content sharing and smart home control. For detailed steps, see can i use my phone as a tv remote lg and how to control lg tv with phone.

How long will my LG Smart TV receive software updates?

Under the webOS Re:New Program, LG Smart TVs from 2022 onward receive up to four webOS upgrades over five years. A 2024 model ships with webOS 24 and will be updated through webOS 28, extending into 2028 or 2029. Updates arrive approximately one year after new TV models launch with the latest webOS version. Keep in mind this covers software features only-not hardware performance improvements.

Is LG Smart TV worth it in 2026?

For most buyers, yes. LG's OLED lineup consistently ranks among the best TVs available, with webOS 26 delivering genuinely useful AI features and the broadest casting support of any major platform. The C6 OLED at $1,399 offers exceptional value for a premium display with full smart capabilities. Budget-conscious buyers can find webOS-equipped LG UHD TVs for under $250. For more, see how long does an lg tv last and how long is lg tv warranty.

Can I add apps that aren't in the LG Content Store?

Not directly. Unlike Android TV/Google TV, webOS doesn't support sideloading apps from external sources for regular users. You're limited to what's available in the LG Content Store. While the store covers all major streaming services, some niche apps may be missing. In those cases, casting from your phone via AirPlay or Chromecast is the simplest workaround. See how to add apps to lg smart tv.

Do LG Smart TVs have Bluetooth?

Yes. All current LG Smart TVs include Bluetooth-typically Bluetooth 5.0 or newer (Bluetooth 5.3 on 2026 models). You can connect wireless headphones, soundbars, game controllers, and keyboards. See does lg tv have bluetooth, how to enable bluetooth on lg tv, and for wired alternatives, how to connect wireless headphones to lg tv without bluetooth.

How do I factory reset my LG Smart TV?

Navigate to Settings → General → System → Reset to Initial Settings. You'll need to enter your TV's PIN (default is 0000 unless you've changed it). This erases all personal data, app logins, and custom settings-returning the TV to its out-of-the-box state. For a full walkthrough, see how to factory reset lg tv, how to reset lg tv, and for a softer restart, how to reboot lg tv. If you've forgotten your PIN, check how to clear cache on lg tv for a less drastic troubleshooting step first.


Conclusion: Is Your LG TV a Smart TV?

Here's what matters: every LG TV sold since 2014 is a smart TV running webOS, and every model available in stores today ships with the latest webOS 26 and its full AI-powered feature set. You can verify this in seconds by pressing the Home button on your remote-if app icons appear, you're all set.

webOS 26 represents a genuine leap forward, with Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot powering conversational AI search, LG Shield protecting against security threats, and the Re:New Program ensuring your TV stays updated for years to come.

Your next steps depend on your situation:

  • Just bought or setting up a new LG Smart TV? Start by connecting to Wi-Fi-here's how to how to connect lg tv to wifi.

  • Having connectivity or performance issues? Check our troubleshooting guide on why won't my lg tv connect to wifi.

  • Comparing LG to other brands before buying? See our detailed breakdown of is lg tv better than samsung.

This guide is updated for March 2026 and will be maintained with each new LG product announcement and webOS update.

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How to Add TV to LG ThinQ: Complete Setup Guide for All Models (2026)

Learn how to add your LG TV to the ThinQ app step by step. Covers all webOS versions (3.5–26), iOS & Android setup, QR code pairing, troubleshooting when TV won't connect, and post-setup features. Updated March 2026.

Does LG TV Have AirPlay? Complete Guide to AirPlay on LG Smart TVs (2026)

Yes, most LG TVs from 2018 onward support AirPlay 2. Learn which LG TV models are compatible, how to set up AirPlay, troubleshoot common issues, and explore alternatives - updated for 2026.

How to Reboot LG TV: 6 Easy Methods With & Without Remote (2026 Guide)

Learn how to reboot your LG TV with or without a remote. Step-by-step instructions for all models including OLED, NanoCell & UHD. Covers restart, soft reset & factory reset for webOS 4.5 through webOS 26.

Does LG TV Have Chromecast? The Complete Guide to Google Cast on LG TVs (2026)

Find out which LG TVs have built-in Chromecast (Google Cast), how to enable it via webOS updates, setup instructions for external devices, and complete troubleshooting. Updated March 2026.