LG TV Smart Features Ending: What You Need to Know

Your LG TV is about to lose some of its smart features if it’s an older model, as LG has announced it will no longer provide software updates for TVs running webOS 4.5 and earlier. This means apps like Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services may stop working or become unstable, and you won’t receive security patches. The exact cutoff dates vary by region and model, but the phase-out has already begun in 2024.

Why Is LG Ending Support for Older webOS Versions?

LG’s smart TV platform, webOS, has been around since 2014. Like any software, it requires ongoing maintenance, bug fixes, and security updates. Over time, supporting very old versions becomes impractical because the hardware in those TVs can’t handle the demands of newer apps and services. LG’s decision to end support for webOS 4.5 and earlier is part of a broader industry trend—Samsung, Sony, and others have also stopped updating older smart TV platforms.

The affected versions include:

• webOS 4.0 (2018 models)
• webOS 4.5 (2019 models)
• webOS 5.0 (2020 models) – though some 2020 models may get a bit longer support

If your TV is from 2019 or earlier, it’s likely running one of these versions. You can check your TV’s software version by going to Settings > General > About This TV or Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV.

What Exactly Happens When Support Ends?

When LG stops supporting a webOS version, it doesn’t mean your TV immediately becomes a brick. The TV will still turn on and display content from HDMI, antenna, or cable. However, the smart features will gradually degrade:

• Apps may stop working: Streaming services frequently update their apps to add features or fix bugs. When they do, they often require a newer operating system. Over time, apps like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ may fail to launch, crash, or show error messages.
• No security updates: Without security patches, your TV is vulnerable to malware or hacking attempts, especially if you use the built-in browser or apps that handle personal data.
• No new features: You won’t get any new apps or features that LG releases for newer webOS versions.

It’s important to note that LG has not announced a specific date when all apps will stop working. The process is gradual—some apps may work for months or even years after support ends, while others may stop abruptly.

How to Check If Your TV Is Affected

To find out if your LG TV is affected, follow these steps:

1. Press the Settings button on your remote (the gear icon).
2. Scroll to All Settings (or General on older models).
3. Select About This TV or TV Information.
4. Look for the Software Version or webOS Version.

If the version is 4.5 or lower, your TV is on the list. If it’s 5.0 or higher, you’re likely safe for now, but keep in mind that LG will eventually end support for those versions too.

What Are Your Options If Your TV Is Affected?

If your TV is affected, you have several options, depending on your budget and how much you value smart features:

• Use an external streaming device: The most cost-effective solution is to buy a streaming stick or box, such as an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast with Google TV. These devices are affordable (often $30-$100) and receive updates for years. They plug into an HDMI port and give you access to all your apps, often with a better interface than the built-in one.
• Use a game console: If you already own a PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, you can use those for streaming apps. They’re regularly updated and support most major services.
• Connect a PC or laptop: You can connect your computer via HDMI and use it as a smart hub, though this is less convenient for casual use.
• Upgrade your TV: If your TV is very old (2016 or earlier), it might be worth investing in a new model. Newer TVs have faster processors, better picture quality, and longer software support.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that LG will automatically disable all smart features on the affected TVs. That’s not true—the TV will still function, but apps may stop working over time. Another misconception is that you can bypass the issue by resetting the TV to factory settings. That won’t help, as the problem is with the operating system itself, not your settings.

Another issue users report is that after support ends, the TV may become slower or more prone to freezing. This is often because apps are no longer optimized for the old OS, and the hardware struggles to keep up. If you experience this, a factory reset might temporarily improve performance, but it won’t fix the underlying problem.

How to Extend the Life of Your LG TV’s Smart Features

While you can’t make LG support an old version forever, you can take steps to keep your TV running smoothly for as long as possible:

• Keep your TV updated: If you haven’t already, install any pending software updates. LG may have released a final update that improves stability.
• Clear app caches: Go to Settings > Apps and clear the cache for apps that are acting up. This can free up memory and fix minor glitches.
• Use an external device: As mentioned, this is the most reliable way to keep streaming without relying on the TV’s built-in apps.
• Disable unused apps: Some apps run in the background and consume resources. Disabling them can help performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my LG TV stop working entirely?

No, your TV will still function as a regular TV. You can use HDMI inputs, watch over-the-air channels, and play games. Only the smart features (apps and built-in streaming) will be affected.

Can I update my LG TV to a newer webOS version?

No, you cannot. Operating system updates are tied to the hardware, and older TVs lack the processing power and memory to run newer versions of webOS. LG does not offer manual OS upgrades.

How long will my apps keep working after support ends?

There’s no set timeline. Some apps may work for months or even years, while others may stop immediately. It depends on the app developer and whether they decide to drop support for older operating systems. Generally, popular apps like Netflix and YouTube tend to support older versions longer, but that’s not guaranteed.

Is it safe to continue using the TV’s smart features after support ends?

There is a security risk because you won’t receive security patches. If you use the TV’s browser or log into accounts on apps, your data could be vulnerable. It’s safer to use an external streaming device that receives updates.

Will LG offer any trade-in or discount for affected customers?

LG has not announced any trade-in or discount program for customers with affected TVs. Your best bet is to consider an external streaming device, which is a low-cost solution.

What if my TV is running webOS 5.0 or higher?

If your TV is running webOS 5.0 or higher, it’s not affected by this specific announcement. However, LG will eventually end support for those versions too, so it’s wise to keep your TV updated and be prepared for the future.

Related

• Electric Water Heater Calculator: What It Can Estimate
• Capacitor Voltage From Current: Formula and Example
• Mac Start Up Automatically After Power Failure?