LG software update brings Apple services to hundreds of smart TV brands

By

Apple TV+ is just one of the features coming to more smart TVs.
Apple TV+ is just one of the features coming to more smart TVs.
Photo: Apple

Consumer electronics maker LG added Apple TV, Apple Music, AirPlay and HomeKit to its webOS Hub Tuesday, making Apple’s core services available to smart TVs from 200 brands that use the custom software.

The update starts rolling out Friday in more than 100 countries and regions. It could provide quite a boost to Apple globally as new users try the features.

LG webOS update adds Apple TV, Apple Music, AirPlay and HomeKit to 200 brands’ smart TVs

LG is well-known for its smart TVs, in addition to computer monitors and other products. Less well-known is that LG offers its webOS platform to other brands to use in their smart TVs.

The 200 brands include a wide variety of names, such as Aiwa, Hyundai, Konka and Seiki. Some of them are popular in developing countries for affordable smart TVs that cost much less than sets from the biggest brands.

And now all those smart TVs in homes all over the world will have the option to pick Apple features, LG said.

The new update adds access to Apple TV (and therefore the Apple TV+ streaming service), Apple Music, AirPlay wireless connectivity and the HomeKit smart-home automation platform with the Home app.

However, AirPlay and HomeKit will only be available via webOS Hub 2.0, which is used in OLED and 4K (UHD) TVs. Any of the brands’ other smart TVs using webOS will be able to provide access to Apple’s media apps, however.

Depending on much new business this development brings to Apple, it might even be a highlight in the company’s next quarterly earnings report and call with analysts.

Source: LG

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.