Is LG TV Android? No - Here's What OS LG TVs Actually Use (2026 Guide)

TL;DR - Is LG TV Android?

No. LG TVs do not run Android. Every LG smart TV sold since 2014 runs webOS, a Linux-based operating system that LG owns and develops in-house. The latest version, webOS 26, ships on all 2026 LG TVs and includes AI features powered by Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot.

If you've been searching the Google Play Store on your LG TV and coming up empty - that's why. LG uses its own LG Content Store for apps instead. The good news? Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Prime Video, Apple TV+, and virtually every major streaming app you'd want is already there.

Here's a quick look at what each major TV brand runs:

Wondering if is LG a good TV brand despite not using Android? This guide covers everything: what webOS actually is, how it compares to Android TV, which apps you get, and exactly how to add Android functionality if you need it.

What Operating System Does LG TV Use? webOS Explained

So what os does LG TV use, if not Android? The answer is webOS - and it's been LG's platform of choice for over a decade.

webOS is a Linux-based smart TV operating system built specifically for televisions. It's not a modified version of Android, not a fork of Android, and shares no code with Google's mobile or TV platform. If you're asking whether is LG TV a smart TV, the answer is absolutely yes - webOS makes it one, just without Android under the hood.

A Brief History of webOS

The story of webOS is genuinely unusual in tech. Palm, Inc. originally created webOS in 2009 as a smartphone operating system to compete with the iPhone. When HP acquired Palm in 2010, they tried to build tablets and phones around webOS - then abandoned the effort in 2011.

LG Electronics purchased webOS from HP in February 2013 and re-imagined it entirely for smart TVs. The first LG TV running webOS launched in 2014, replacing LG's older NetCast platform. In January 2014, Qualcomm separately acquired the webOS-related patents from HP, and LG licenses those patents for its devices.

Since then, LG has poured resources into making webOS the centerpiece of its TV experience. The platform now powers over 120 million devices in more than 150 countries - and that number keeps growing.

What Does webOS Look and Feel Like?

Navigating webOS feels distinctly different from Android TV. The Magic Remote - LG's motion-sensing pointer remote - lets you point at the screen and click, more like using a mouse than mashing directional buttons. After testing both platforms side by side, this pointer navigation is genuinely faster for browsing menus and typing search queries.

The home screen on recent webOS versions (2021 and newer) shows a full-screen layout with content recommendations, app rows, and Quick Cards for settings, gaming, and smart home controls. Older LG TVs display a sleek ribbon-style launcher bar at the bottom of the screen.

The LG Content Store

Instead of Google Play Store, webOS uses the LG Content Store for app downloads. The store carries all the streaming heavyweights - Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Spotify, Hulu, Max (HBO), Peacock, Paramount+, and more. If you want to learn the full process, check out how to download apps on LG TV for a step-by-step walkthrough.

Is the Content Store's library smaller than Google Play? Yes - and we'll get into exactly what's missing later. But for the vast majority of streaming needs, you won't notice a gap.

webOS Licensing to Third-Party Brands

Here's something that signals LG's long-term commitment to webOS: since 2021, LG has been licensing webOS to other TV manufacturers. Brands like RCA, Konka, Blaupunkt, Aiwa, Seiki, Hyundai, and Polaroid now sell TVs powered by webOS. According to LG, more than 20 manufacturers have signed on.

This matters because it means LG is investing in webOS as a platform with a future beyond its own TVs - not something a company would do if it were planning to switch to Android. If is LG a good TV as a brand, its willingness to stand behind its own software platform says something about its confidence.

You can also keep your LG TV's software current by following our guide on how to update LG TV software - especially important with LG's Re:New update program rolling out new webOS versions to older TVs.

Why LG Doesn't Use Android TV

This is a question nobody else seems to answer: if Android TV is so popular, why doesn't LG just use it like Sony and TCL do?

Three strategic reasons drive this decision.

Hardware-Software Optimization

By controlling both the hardware and software, LG can optimize webOS specifically for its own TV processors. The flagship Alpha 11 Gen3 chip in 2026 LG TVs was designed to work hand-in-hand with webOS 26, resulting in faster boot times and smoother UI animations than you'd get from a generic Android TV implementation. When someone asks what is the best LG TV, part of that answer comes down to how tightly the software and hardware work together.

This is the same philosophy Apple uses with iOS and its own chips. It's also the approach Samsung takes with Tizen on its TVs. When you compare is LG TV better than Samsung, you're actually comparing two companies that both chose to build their own TV operating systems for similar reasons.

Data and Revenue Control

This is the part manufacturers don't love discussing. When a TV runs Android TV, Google collects significant amounts of user data and controls the advertising ecosystem. With webOS, LG retains ownership of user data and advertising revenue - a business model that's become increasingly important as LG has pivoted toward being what it calls a "smart life solution company."

The advertising revenue from smart TV platforms is substantial. LG keeping that revenue in-house, rather than sharing it with Google, is a major financial incentive.

Unique Feature Differentiation

Running its own OS lets LG offer features that Google's Android TV framework wouldn't easily accommodate. The Magic Remote pointer navigation, simultaneous support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa and LG ThinQ AI, and the new AI Hub with both Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot - these exist because LG controls the platform.

On Android TV, Google's ecosystem takes priority. You get Google Assistant, but adding Amazon Alexa or Microsoft Copilot as equal-status AI partners isn't something Google encourages on its own platform.

Premium LG OLED models like the best LG OLED TV offerings showcase this webOS-hardware synergy at its best, with features purpose-built for the display technology.

The Evolution of LG webOS: Version History (2014–2026)

Understanding webOS versions helps you know what your TV can do - and what updates you might receive. LG switched from numbered versions (1.0 through 6.0) to year-based naming (webOS 22 and beyond) starting in 2022.

The Re:New Update Program

LG's Re:New program, introduced with webOS 24, guarantees that eligible LG TVs receive up to four major webOS version upgrades over five years. So a TV purchased in 2024 with webOS 24 will receive updates to webOS 25, 26, 27, and 28 over its lifecycle.

This was a major shift. Previously, LG TVs were stuck on whatever webOS version they shipped with. The Re:New program earned a CES Innovation Award and represents LG's answer to criticisms about smart TV software aging.

To check whether your TV has received the latest update or to find out how to update firmware on LG TV, head to Settings → General → About This TV. You can also identify your TV's year of manufacture - and therefore its webOS version - by checking how to find LG TV model number and looking at the year digit (6 = 2026, 5 = 2025, 4 = 2024, etc.).

webOS 26: What's New for 2026 LG TVs

This is where LG's 2026 TVs separate themselves from everything competitors are writing about. webOS 26 is the most feature-rich version yet, and no other guide covering the "is LG TV Android" question includes this information.

AI Hub: The Command Center

The headlining feature is AI Hub, a new command center accessible via a dedicated AI button on the remote. AI Hub integrates Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot directly into the TV interface, allowing conversational search across multiple AI engines simultaneously.

Ask a question, and AI Hub can pull answers from both Gemini and Copilot, letting you compare responses. It's genuinely useful for quick lookups - recipe searches while cooking, sports trivia during a game, general knowledge questions - without reaching for your phone.

AI Concierge

AI Concierge learns your viewing habits and recommends content based on what you actually watch. Each household member gets a personalized "My Page" with widgets like a clock, calendar, and tailored content suggestions. It also provides natural-language access to settings and menus - say what you want to adjust, and AI Concierge navigates there for you.

Processing Power

The Alpha 11 Gen3 processor powering premium 2026 LG TVs features a Dual AI Engine with a 50% faster CPU, 70% faster GPU, and 5.6x faster NPU compared to the previous generation. LG claims webOS 26 is noticeably faster and smoother as a result, though independent testing is still pending as of March 2026.

Smart Home Hub Capabilities

2026 LG TVs can function as smart home control centers. webOS 26 supports Matter with Thread, Apple Home and AirPlay, Google Cast (Chromecast built-in), and Zigbee protocol. LG has also acquired Homey, a smart home platform, integrating it into the TV experience. You can control lights, thermostats, cameras, and other connected devices directly from your TV.

For connecting your LG TV to specific ecosystems, check out how to connect LG TV to Google Home or how to connect LG TV to Alexa for step-by-step setup guides. Managing your TV through LG's own ecosystem? Here's how to add TV to LG ThinQ.

A note on Thread and Zigbee: FlatpanelsHD reports that Thread and Zigbee connectivity on 2026 LG TVs will require a separate USB dongle, launching later in 2026. Matter over Wi-Fi works natively without additional hardware.

Additional webOS 26 Features

• Dynamic Sports for customized live sports tracking with scores and game data

• LG Gallery+ for curated visual art displayed on your TV when idle

• LG Shield enhanced security platform protecting against malware and data breaches

• Ambient Filmmaker Mode as a standalone, easily selectable picture mode

• TruMotion AI - AI-based motion smoothing that dynamically adjusts based on content type

• Five-year update guarantee for all 2026 LG TV models

Voice assistant features are highly customizable on webOS 26 - if you prefer to disable them, here's how to turn off voice command on LG TV.

webOS vs Android TV: Complete Comparison

This is the comparison most people searching "is LG TV Android" actually want. After using both platforms extensively, here's how they stack up across every category that matters.

Where webOS Wins

The Magic Remote is the single biggest differentiator. Point, click, scroll - it transforms TV navigation from the frustrating button-mash experience on most Android TV remotes into something that actually feels modern. If you haven't used one, it's hard to overstate the difference.

Multi-assistant support is the other major win. Having Google Assistant, Alexa, and LG's ThinQ AI available simultaneously - plus Gemini and Copilot on webOS 26 - gives you flexibility no Android TV can match. When you're ready to optimize your gaming setup, here's how to turn on game mode on LG TV and how to reduce input lag on LG TV.

Where Android TV Wins

App selection. Full stop. Google Play Store's library dwarfs the LG Content Store. If you need niche apps, specific games, or region-specific streaming services, Android TV almost certainly has them. The ability to sideload APK files adds another layer of flexibility that webOS simply doesn't offer.

Google ecosystem integration is the other advantage. If your life runs on Google services - Gmail, Calendar, Photos, Home - Android TV weaves them together more tightly than webOS can.

The Casting Gap Has Closed

This deserves special mention because many comparison articles get it wrong. Older guides claim webOS lacks Chromecast - that was true before 2024. Since webOS 24, LG TVs include Google Cast (Chromecast) built-in. Combined with AirPlay 2 and Miracast support, 2024 and newer LG TVs can receive casts from virtually any phone or laptop. Check does LG TV have Bluetooth for details on wireless connectivity options, and here's how to manage how to turn off motion smoothing on LG TV for the best movie and gaming experience.

App Availability: webOS Content Store vs Google Play Store

Does LG TV have Google Play Store? No. But does that actually matter for most people? Let's look at the real data.

The practical reality: for 95% of users, the app gap between webOS and Android TV is negligible. Every major streaming service maintains a native webOS app in the LG Content Store. webOS even has an exclusive advantage - LG Channels provides over 400 free ad-supported streaming channels that aren't available on Android TV.

Where you'll notice gaps is with niche apps, smaller regional streaming services, and Android-specific games. If a specific app you rely on isn't in the LG Content Store, Section 10 covers your options.

To get started with the LG Content Store, here's how to add apps to LG smart TV and how to download apps on LG TV. Need to manage storage? Learn how to delete app on LG TV and how to update apps on LG TV to keep everything running smoothly.

For specific app installation guides, we've covered popular services like how to get Spectrum app on LG TV, how to add Paramount Plus to LG TV, and how to get DirecTV app on LG TV.

What You CAN and CAN'T Do on LG webOS

Rather than abstract comparisons, here's a concrete capability checklist to set realistic expectations.

✅ YES, You Can:

• Stream everything mainstream - Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Hulu, Max, Peacock, Paramount+, Spotify, and dozens more

• Use voice control - Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and LG ThinQ AI all work simultaneously

• Cast from your phone - AirPlay 2 (iOS), Miracast, and Google Cast (webOS 24+) are all supported. Here's how to screen mirror on LG TV, how to AirPlay to LG TV, and how to cast to LG TV for each method

• Watch 400+ free channels via LG Channels at no cost

• Navigate with the Magic Remote pointer - genuinely the best TV remote experience available

• Create user profiles with personalized recommendations for each household member

• Use AI content recommendations that improve over time

• Control your smart home - Matter, Zigbee, Thread (with dongle), and Apple Home support

• Game at up to 4K 165Hz with VRR, G-SYNC, FreeSync, and GeForce NOW cloud gaming

• Access AI assistants - Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot on webOS 26

For Apple users wondering about compatibility, check does LG TV have AirPlay - the answer is yes for 2018 and newer models. And for Google Cast, see does LG TV have Chromecast - built-in from webOS 24 onward.

❌ NO, You Can't:

• Install Google Play Store - webOS uses LG Content Store exclusively

• Sideload Android APK files - webOS is Linux-based and can't run Android apps

• Access some niche Android-only apps - certain regional or specialty apps don't have webOS versions

• Get full Google ecosystem integration - no Google Photos screensaver, no Google Calendar widget

• Run Android games - Google Play Games aren't available

• Customize the OS extensively - no custom launchers, limited interface tweaks

The Reality Check

The practical gap between webOS and Android TV is genuinely smaller than most people expect. If you primarily use your TV for streaming, voice commands, and casting from your phone, webOS covers all of that. The "missing" features mostly matter to power users who want deep Android customization or rely on specific niche apps.

If you need an app that isn't available on webOS, the solution path is straightforward: check the LG Content Store first → try screen mirroring from your phone → consider an external streaming device. Section 10 covers the details.

How to Check What OS Your LG TV Runs

Three quick methods to identify your TV's operating system and webOS version.

Method 1: Settings Menu

1. Press the Home/Settings button on your LG remote

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

3. Look for "webOS TV Version" or "Software Version" - this shows your exact webOS version number

Method 2: Quick Diagnostic Overlay

Press the Mute button on your remote 3 times rapidly. A diagnostic information overlay will appear showing your platform, webOS version, and other system details. Press Mute 3 times again to dismiss it.

Method 3: Model Number

Your LG TV model number reveals its year of manufacture, which corresponds to the webOS version it originally shipped with:

For example, a model with "C6" is a 2026 TV, while "C5" is 2025. Need help locating yours? Here's how to find LG TV model number.

Remember that the Re:New program may have updated your TV beyond its original version. The Settings menu method gives you the most accurate current version.

How to Get Android TV Features on Your LG TV

Can you install Android apps on LG TV directly? No. Can you replace webOS with Android? Also no - the hardware is designed for webOS with specific firmware and drivers.

But here's the good news: you can easily add Android TV functionality alongside webOS. Here are your options, ranked by recommendation.

Option 1: Google TV Streamer ($99)

The Google TV Streamer replaced the discontinued Chromecast with Google TV in late 2024. It's a set-top box (not a dongle) that plugs into any HDMI port and gives you the full Google TV experience with access to the entire Google Play Store.

Best for: Users who want complete Google ecosystem integration with a modern, powerful streaming device.

Setup: Plug into HDMI → select the input → follow on-screen setup → sign into Google. Takes under 10 minutes.

What you get: Full Google Play Store access, Google Assistant, Google Photos integration, Chromecast built-in, Android app sideloading capability.

Option 2: NVIDIA Shield TV ($150–$200)

The premium choice. The NVIDIA Shield TV runs Android TV with the Tegra X1+ processor, offering AI-powered 4K upscaling, GeForce NOW game streaming, and Plex media server capabilities.

Best for: Gamers, home theater enthusiasts, and Plex users who want the most powerful streaming hardware available.

Option 3: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K ($35–$50)

Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K runs a modified Android-based OS with Amazon's ecosystem. It's not technically Google TV, so you won't get Google Play Store - but the Amazon App Store carries most major streaming apps plus Alexa integration.

Best for: Amazon Prime members and Alexa-heavy households looking for an affordable option.

Option 4: Screen Mirroring from Your Phone (Free)

You can mirror your phone's screen to your LG TV without any additional hardware. Learn how to connect phone to LG TV for the full walkthrough, or specifically how to screen mirror iPhone to LG TV for Apple users and how to screen share on LG TV for Android.

Best for: Occasional use when you need a specific app that isn't on webOS.

What You CANNOT Do

You cannot install Android TV as a replacement for webOS on LG TV hardware. The bootloader, drivers, and firmware are built specifically for webOS. Any external device you add runs Android alongside webOS - you'll switch between them using your TV's input selector. Here's how to change HDMI on LG TV and where are HDMI ports on LG TV if you need help with physical connections. Console gamers can also check out how to connect PS5 to LG TV wirelessly and how to connect Xbox to LG TV for gaming device setup.

LG webOS Smart Home & Gaming Features in 2026

Two areas where webOS often gets overlooked are smart home control and gaming - and in 2026, LG TVs are genuinely competitive in both.

Your TV as a Smart Home Hub

2026 LG TVs support a broad range of smart home protocols:

• Matter with Thread - the emerging universal smart home standard (Thread requires a USB dongle, launching later in 2026)

• Apple Home and AirPlay - full compatibility with Apple's smart home ecosystem

• Google Cast (Chromecast built-in) - stream from any compatible app

• Zigbee - connect legacy smart home devices (requires USB dongle)

• Homey - LG acquired this smart home platform to deepen integration

From the TV's Home Dashboard, you can control lights, thermostats, cameras, locks, and other connected devices. It's not as deep as a dedicated smart home hub, but for quick adjustments without reaching for your phone, it's surprisingly useful.

Gaming Features That Rival Dedicated Consoles

LG has quietly built webOS into one of the best gaming platforms on any TV:

• 4K 165Hz VRR support for ultra-smooth PC and console gaming

• NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium certification

• GeForce NOW 4K/120 cloud game streaming - debuting on 2026 LG OLEDs, this lets you play AAA PC games without a gaming PC or console

• Bluetooth ULL (Ultra Low Latency) - reduces wireless controller latency to just 1ms, a significant advantage for competitive gaming

• Game Dashboard and Optimizer - auto-detects gaming and optimizes display settings in real time

• 0.1ms response time on OLED panels

If you're curious whether your LG TV supports high refresh rates, check out can a LG TV run 120 FPS. For display customization during gaming, here's how to turn off HDR on LG TV and how to enable Bluetooth on LG TV for connecting wireless controllers.

Audio for gaming has improved too. 2026 LG OLEDs introduce Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, allowing compatible wireless speakers to connect directly to the TV for surround sound without cable clutter. For wired audio setups, learn how to connect Bluetooth headphones to LG TV and how to connect LG soundbar to TV.

Note: GeForce NOW 4K/120 and Bluetooth ULL are new for 2026 models and independent testing is pending as of March 2026.

2026 LG TV Models Running webOS 26

Every 2026 LG TV - from flagship OLED to budget-friendly QNED - ships with webOS 26. Here's the current lineup:

• LG OLED evo G6 (Flagship) - 2nd-gen Tandem WOLED, Alpha 11 Gen3 processor, sizes 55"/65"/77"/83"/97". Starting at $2,499 (55").

• LG OLED evo C6 / C6H (Mid-range) - Alpha 11 Gen3 processor, Dolby Vision and Atmos, sizes 42"/55"/65"/77"/83". The 77" and 83" C6H models get the same Tandem WOLED panel as the G6. Starting at $1,399 (42").

• LG OLED evo W6 (Wallpaper TV) - Wireless Zero Connect Box for minimal cabling, ultra-slim design at 9.9mm, sizes 77"/83". Pricing TBD.

• LG OLED B6 (Entry-level OLED) - New OLED SE panel hitting 1,000 nits peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color. Budget-friendly pricing expected to match the B5 (which frequently hit $599 on sale).

• LG Micro RGB evo MRGB95 - LG's new RGB LED technology with over 1,000 dimming zones and claimed 100% Rec.2020 color. Pricing TBD.

• LG Gallery TV LX7 - Art display competitor to Samsung's The Frame. Pricing TBD.

• LG QNED evo range - Mini LED models in sizes up to 115", offering the most affordable entry into LG's 2026 lineup. If you're considering budget options, here's which LG QNED TV is best.

All 2026 models come with a 5-year webOS update guarantee, meaning your TV will continue receiving major software upgrades through at least 2031. That's a meaningful commitment when considering how long does an LG TV last - the software will keep pace with the hardware for years. Curious about where LG TV made? LG manufactures its premium OLED panels in South Korea, adding another layer of quality control to the equation.

For deeper comparisons and buying advice, check out our comprehensive guide on what is the best LG TV and specifically what is the best LG OLED TV for premium buyers.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is LG TV Android?

No, LG TVs are not Android. All LG smart TVs run webOS, a proprietary operating system that LG Electronics acquired from HP in 2013 and has developed for TVs since 2014. webOS uses the LG Content Store for apps instead of Google Play Store. The latest version, webOS 26, includes AI features powered by Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot.

webOS has been LG's exclusive TV platform for over a decade. Sony uses Android TV/Google TV, Samsung uses Tizen, and LG uses webOS - each major TV manufacturer made different OS choices based on their business strategies.

Can I Install Google Play Store on LG TV?

No, you cannot install Google Play Store on an LG TV because LG TVs run webOS, not Android. To access Google Play apps, connect an external device like the Google TV Streamer ($99) or NVIDIA Shield TV ($150–$200) to your LG TV's HDMI port.

The LG Content Store carries all major streaming apps - Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Hulu, Max, Peacock, Paramount+, and Spotify. Most users find the Content Store sufficient for their streaming needs.

Does LG TV Support Google Assistant?

Yes. LG smart TVs have included built-in Google Assistant since 2018 (webOS 4.0). It works alongside Amazon Alexa and LG's ThinQ AI - press and hold the microphone button on the Magic Remote to activate it.

The 2026 webOS 26 update goes further, adding Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot through the new AI Hub feature. This gives LG TVs more AI assistant options than any Android TV.

Is webOS Better Than Android TV?

It depends on what you prioritize. webOS excels in simplicity, Magic Remote navigation, fast performance on LG hardware, and multi-assistant support (Google, Alexa, ThinQ AI, Gemini, Copilot). Android TV wins on app selection through Google Play Store, Google ecosystem integration, and customization options.

For casual streaming and ease of use, webOS is excellent. For power users who need specific apps or deep Google integration, Android TV has the edge. For most people, the practical difference is smaller than you'd expect.

Can I Sideload Android Apps (APK) on LG TV?

No. webOS is a Linux-based operating system that cannot run Android APK files. The two platforms are fundamentally incompatible - it's not a matter of unlocking a hidden setting.

To access Android apps on your LG TV, connect an external Android TV device like the Google TV Streamer or Amazon Fire TV Stick to an HDMI port.

Does LG TV Have Chromecast Built-in?

Yes - on 2024 and newer models. LG TVs running webOS 24 (2024 models) and later have Google Cast (Chromecast) built-in. You can cast content directly from compatible apps on your phone to your LG TV without additional hardware.

Older LG TVs (pre-2024) support AirPlay 2 and Miracast for screen mirroring but require an external Chromecast or Google TV Streamer device for Google Cast functionality.

Will My LG TV Get webOS Updates?

Yes, through LG's Re:New program. Eligible LG TVs (2022 and newer) receive up to four major webOS version upgrades over five years. A 2024 TV with webOS 24 will be updated to webOS 25, 26, 27, and 28 over its lifecycle. All 2026 LG TVs ship with webOS 26 and are guaranteed at least five years of software support.

Updates roll out gradually - check Settings → General → About This TV to see if an update is available for your model.

Should I Buy a Separate Android TV Box for My LG TV?

Most LG TV owners don't need one. webOS provides all major streaming apps, voice control, casting capabilities, and smart home integration. Consider an external Android TV device only if you:

• Need specific apps not available in the LG Content Store

• Want Google Play Games or Android gaming

• Prefer the Google TV interface over webOS

• Rely heavily on Google ecosystem features (Photos, Calendar integration)

If your webOS TV handles everything you need, adding a streaming box is an unnecessary expense.

Does LG TV Work with Android Phones?

Yes, LG TVs work well with Android phones. You can screen mirror using Miracast or Google Cast (webOS 24+), control your TV using the LG ThinQ app, and cast content from supported apps directly. Google Assistant voice commands from your phone also work with LG TVs.

The ThinQ app turns your phone into a remote, lets you browse content, and can share photos and videos to your TV screen.

What Apps Are Available on LG webOS?

The LG Content Store offers hundreds of apps including all major streaming services: Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Hulu, Max (HBO), Peacock, Paramount+, Spotify, Tubi, Pluto TV, Crunchyroll, ESPN+, and more. LG TVs also include LG Channels with 400+ free ad-supported streaming channels.

Available apps vary somewhat by region and TV model, but the core streaming lineup is consistent globally.

Conclusion: Is webOS Good Enough, or Do You Need Android TV?

LG TVs run webOS, not Android - and after twelve years of development, that's a deliberate design choice with genuine advantages. The Magic Remote, simultaneous multi-assistant support, tight hardware optimization, and growing smart home capabilities make webOS a mature, polished platform.

The practical gap between webOS and Android TV is genuinely smaller than most comparison articles suggest. Every major streaming app is available on both platforms. Casting from your phone works on both. Voice assistants work on both. The differences that remain - app store size, Google ecosystem depth, customization - matter to some users and not at all to others.

Here's the honest recommendation: if you're buying a new TV, don't let the operating system be the deciding factor. Focus on picture quality, size, and features first. webOS handles streaming beautifully, and if you ever need Android TV features, a $99 Google TV Streamer solves that instantly. The TV's display panel will matter far more to your daily experience than whether it runs webOS or Android.

Once you've got your LG TV set up, here's how to connect LG TV to WiFi to get started, and how to control LG TV with phone for convenient remote-free navigation. If you ever run into issues, our guides on how to factory reset LG TV and how to reset LG TV password cover common troubleshooting scenarios.