If you want to keep accessing the latest features, security patches and performance improvements, you must always keep your LG TV up to date. But the process of updating your LG TV software can vary from model to model. Let’s guide you through the process..

Automatic Updates for LG TVs

Automatic updates are a convenient way to keep your LG TV’s software current without manual intervention. Here’s how they work and their benefits:

How to Enable Automatic Updates

1. Navigate to the settings icon or the top right of your screen.

2. Select “All Settings” from the menu.

2.Find the “Support” submenu.

3. Toggle on the  “Auto Update”. Once that’s done, updates will be downloaded and installed automatically whenever they’re available.

Manual Updates via Internet for LG TVs

Updating your LG TV manually via the internet is a straightforward process that ensures your TV stays equipped with the latest features, bug fixes, and security enhancements. Follow the steps below to complete the update process.

Web OS 23, 24, 25

1. Ensure Your TV is Connected to the Internet

Press the Settings button on your remote or navigate to Settings from the main menu.

2. Access the Software Update Section

  • Press the Settings button again and navigate to All Settings.
  • Go to Support and select Software Update. Alternatively, for older webOS versions, this option may be found under General > About This TV.

3. Check for Updates

  • In the Software Update menu, click on Check for Updates. The TV will contact LG servers to determine if a newer firmware version is available.

4. Download and Install Updates

  • If an update is available, Select Download and Install.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to begin downloading the software.
  • Ensure your TV remains powered on and connected to the internet during the process.

5. Complete Installation

  • Once the download finishes, your TV will automatically install the update.
  • Do not turn off or unplug your TV during installation. The progress will be displayed on-screen.
  • After installation, your TV may reboot automatically.

Manual Updates via Internet for Older LG Smart TVs

1. Check Your Internet Connection

  • Press the Settings button on your remote then scroll down to All Settings
  • Go to Network and verify that your TV is connected to a Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. If not, connect to your preferred network.

2. Access the Update Menu

Press the Settings button again or use the Home button to bring up the main menu, then navigate to All Settings (gear icon) and select it.

3. Find the Software Update Option

Depending on your TV’s webOS version. For webOS 4.0 or 4.5: Go to General > About This TV.

4. Check for Updates

In the About This TV section, select Check for Updates or a similar option like Check Update Version. The TV will search for available updates online.

5. Download and Install Updates

If an update is available, select Download and Install. Wait for the download to complete; this may take several minutes depending on your internet speed. Once downloaded, the installation will begin automatically.

Manual Updates via USB for LG TVs

Updating your LG TV via USB is a reliable method, especially when internet connectivity is unstable or unavailable. This process involves downloading the firmware update onto a USB drive and installing it directly on your TV. Follow the detailed steps below.

1. Identify Your TV Model

Locate your TV model number on the back of your LG TV or in the user manual. Write it down, as you’ll need it to download the correct firmware file.

2. Download the Firmware Update

  • Enter your TV model number into the search bar and select your device from the dropdown list.
  • Download the latest firmware update file, which will be in a compressed ZIP format.

3. Prepare Your USB Drive

  • Insert a USB flash drive (minimum 1GB storage) into your computer.
  • Right-click on the USB drive in your file explorer and select Format.
  • Choose FAT32 as the file system and complete the formatting process.
  • Ensure the USB drive is empty before proceeding.

4. Create the Required Folder

  • On your USB drive, create a folder named LG_DTV (case-sensitive and must be spelled exactly).
  • Right-click on the ZIP file and select Extract All, then extract the contents into the LG_DTV folder on your USB drive.

5. Transfer Files to USB

  • Verify that all extracted files are correctly placed inside the LG_DTV folder on your USB drive.
  • Safely eject the USB drive from your computer.

6. Install Firmware Update on Your TV

  1. Insert the prepared USB drive into an available USB port on your LG TV.
  2. Wait for a pop-up message on your screen indicating that a USB update has been detected
  3. Select Start and follow any on-screen instructions to start the update process.
  4. The installation may take several minutes, during which your TV may restart automatically.

7. Final Steps

  • Once installation is complete, power off your TV for at least 10 seconds and then turn it back on.
  • Verify that the update was successful by checking the software version in Settings > General > About This TV.

Tips for Optimizing the Update Process on LG TVs

1. Schedule Updates During Off-Peak Hours

Perform updates during times when your TV is not in use, such as late at night or early in the morning. This minimizes disruptions to your viewing experience and ensures faster download speeds if your internet connection is shared with other devices.

2. Use a Stable Internet Connection

Ensure your TV is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. A weak or unstable connection can cause delays or failures during the update process.

If possible, connect your TV directly to your router via an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.

3. Check Storage Space

Make sure your TV has enough internal memory to accommodate the update file. If storage is limited, consider deleting unused apps or clearing cache data to free up space.

4. Verify Current Software Version

Before updating, check the current software version of your TV in Settings > General > About This TV. This helps you confirm whether an update is necessary and prevents unnecessary downloads.

5. Back Up Important Settings

Take note of or back up any custom settings (e.g., picture modes, sound profiles) before updating. While updates typically preserve these settings, it’s good practice to have a record in case of reset issues.

6. Use Automatic Updates Wisely

Enable automatic updates if you prefer hands-free maintenance, but only if you have a stable internet connection and no bandwidth concerns. If you opt for manual updates, set a reminder to check for new versions monthly to stay up-to-date.

7. Restart Your TV Post-Update

After completing an update, restart your TV manually to ensure all changes are applied correctly and the system runs smoothly.

Mkpoikana Otu - Tech Gorilla Author

The love of tech is strong with Mkpoikana, he has worked for numerous large publications online, providing tech insights, news and reviews.

He is a great member of our team and has several years experience of writing for tech companies.