LG is a well-known brand in the world of electronics, and its smart TVs are popular among consumers. However, there’s often confusion about the operating system used by LG’s smart TVs. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of LG’s smart TV operating system and answer the question: is LG an Android TV?
What is an Android TV?
Before we dive into LG’s smart TV operating system, let’s first understand what an Android TV is. Android TV is a version of the Android operating system designed for digital media players, set-top boxes, and smart TVs. It’s developed by Google and provides a platform for streaming content, playing games, and accessing various apps.
Android TV offers a range of features, including:
- A user-friendly interface for navigating and discovering content
- Support for popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video
- A wide range of apps available for download from the Google Play Store
- Integration with other Google services, such as Google Assistant and Google Chromecast
LG’s Smart TV Operating System: webOS
Now that we’ve covered what an Android TV is, let’s explore LG’s smart TV operating system. LG’s smart TVs run on a proprietary operating system called webOS. webOS is a Linux-based operating system that’s designed specifically for smart TVs.
webOS was first introduced in 2014 and has since become a popular choice among smart TV manufacturers. It’s known for its user-friendly interface, fast performance, and wide range of features.
Some of the key features of webOS include:
- A simple and intuitive interface for navigating and discovering content
- Support for popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video
- A wide range of apps available for download from the LG Content Store
- Integration with other LG devices, such as smartphones and home appliances
Key Differences Between webOS and Android TV
While both webOS and Android TV offer a range of features and apps, there are some key differences between the two operating systems. Here are a few:
- App selection: Android TV has a wider range of apps available for download from the Google Play Store. webOS, on the other hand, has a more limited selection of apps available from the LG Content Store.
- Integration: Android TV is tightly integrated with other Google services, such as Google Assistant and Google Chromecast. webOS, on the other hand, is integrated with other LG devices and services.
- User interface: The user interface of webOS is generally considered to be more user-friendly and intuitive than Android TV.
Is LG an Android TV?
So, is LG an Android TV? The answer is no. LG’s smart TVs run on a proprietary operating system called webOS, which is different from Android TV.
While LG’s smart TVs may offer some similar features and apps to Android TV, they are not Android TVs. If you’re looking for a smart TV that runs on Android TV, you may want to consider a different brand, such as Sony or Hisense.
Why Doesn’t LG Use Android TV?
So, why doesn’t LG use Android TV on its smart TVs? There are a few reasons:
- Control: By using a proprietary operating system, LG has more control over the user experience and can customize the interface to its liking.
- Differentiation: Using a proprietary operating system helps LG to differentiate its smart TVs from those of its competitors.
- Cost: Using a proprietary operating system may also be more cost-effective for LG than licensing Android TV from Google.
Conclusion
In conclusion, LG’s smart TVs do not run on Android TV. Instead, they use a proprietary operating system called webOS. While webOS offers many similar features and apps to Android TV, it’s a distinct operating system that’s designed specifically for LG’s smart TVs.
If you’re in the market for a new smart TV, it’s worth considering LG’s webOS-based TVs. They offer a user-friendly interface, fast performance, and a wide range of features and apps. However, if you’re looking for a smart TV that runs on Android TV, you may want to consider a different brand.
Final Thoughts
In the world of smart TVs, there are many different operating systems to choose from. While Android TV is a popular choice, it’s not the only option. LG’s webOS is a viable alternative that offers many similar features and apps.
Ultimately, the choice of smart TV operating system will depend on your individual needs and preferences. We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of LG’s webOS and helped you to make an informed decision when choosing a new smart TV.
Is LG an Android TV?
LG is not an Android TV in the classical sense. While Android TV is an operating system developed by Google for smart TVs, LG uses its own proprietary operating system called webOS. webOS is a Linux-based operating system that provides a unique user interface and experience for LG smart TVs. Although webOS is not Android TV, it does offer many similar features and functionalities, including access to various streaming apps and services.
However, it’s worth noting that LG does offer some Android TV models, particularly in certain regions or for specific product lines. These models run on the Android TV operating system and provide a different user experience compared to webOS. But for the most part, LG’s smart TVs run on webOS, which is a distinct operating system from Android TV.
What is webOS, and how does it differ from Android TV?
webOS is a Linux-based operating system developed by LG for its smart TVs. It provides a unique user interface and experience, with features such as a launcher bar, app store, and multitasking capabilities. webOS is designed to be fast, intuitive, and easy to use, with a focus on providing a seamless viewing experience. One of the key differences between webOS and Android TV is the user interface, with webOS offering a more streamlined and minimalist design.
Another significant difference is the app ecosystem. While both webOS and Android TV offer access to popular streaming apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, the selection of apps may vary between the two platforms. webOS also has a more limited selection of games compared to Android TV. However, webOS has its own strengths, such as its integration with LG’s ThinQ AI technology, which provides advanced voice control and smart home features.
Can I install Android apps on my LG webOS TV?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to install Android apps directly on an LG webOS TV. webOS has its own app store, which offers a selection of apps that are specifically designed for the platform. While some popular apps like Netflix and Hulu are available on both webOS and Android TV, the selection of apps may vary between the two platforms.
However, LG does offer a feature called “LG Channels,” which provides access to a range of streaming services and apps, including some that may not be available through the webOS app store. Additionally, some LG TVs may support casting from Android devices, which allows you to stream content from your Android phone or tablet to your TV.
Is webOS better than Android TV?
The choice between webOS and Android TV ultimately depends on personal preference and individual needs. Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses, and which one is “better” will depend on what you value most in a smart TV operating system. webOS is known for its fast and intuitive interface, as well as its seamless integration with LG’s ThinQ AI technology.
On the other hand, Android TV offers a more comprehensive app ecosystem and a wider selection of games. Android TV also provides more customization options and a more traditional Android experience, which may appeal to fans of the Android platform. Ultimately, the decision between webOS and Android TV will depend on your individual preferences and viewing habits.
Can I update my LG webOS TV to Android TV?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to update an LG webOS TV to Android TV. webOS and Android TV are two distinct operating systems, and they are not compatible with each other. LG’s webOS TVs are designed to run on webOS, and they are not capable of running Android TV.
However, LG does regularly update its webOS platform with new features and improvements. These updates are typically rolled out automatically, and they can be installed directly on your TV. Additionally, some LG TVs may offer a “software update” option in the settings menu, which allows you to manually check for and install updates.
Are LG webOS TVs compatible with Google Assistant?
Yes, LG webOS TVs are compatible with Google Assistant. In fact, many LG webOS TVs come with Google Assistant built-in, which allows you to control your TV and access various smart home features using voice commands. You can also use Google Assistant to search for content, launch apps, and adjust TV settings.
Additionally, LG webOS TVs also support Amazon Alexa, which provides another option for voice control and smart home integration. However, it’s worth noting that the availability of Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa may vary depending on the specific LG TV model and region.
Can I use my LG webOS TV with other smart devices?
Yes, LG webOS TVs can be used with other smart devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart home devices. LG’s webOS platform supports a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HDMI-CEC. This allows you to connect your TV to other devices and access various features and services.
For example, you can use your smartphone or tablet to cast content to your LG webOS TV, or use LG’s ThinQ app to control your TV and access smart home features remotely. Additionally, LG webOS TVs also support integration with other smart devices, such as Amazon Echo and Google Home, which allows you to control your TV and access various smart home features using voice commands.