Is LG OLED TV about to get a great free upgrade?

The LG C3 and LG G3 TVs are getting an earlier-than-expected upgrade to their smart TV operating system, with the ‘webOS 24’ update rolling out now. Originally scheduled for 2025, this update is already available on some TVs, with more set to receive it in the coming days. However, if you own an LG B3 or another 2023 model, you’ll still get this upgrade soon, as LG tends to roll it out to their premium OLEDs first.

LG had initially committed to offering 5 years of upgrades for its webOS TVs, with each year’s models getting the software from the following year’s TVs a year later. For example, 2022 models like the LG C2 will receive the 2023 software update in 2025. However, with this new update arriving early, it seems LG is stepping up its game.

Here are the key new features in this webOS 24 update:

  1. Chromecast built-in: You can now stream mobile content to your TV without needing any extra devices.
  2. Voice ID: The TV can recognize your voice for personalized services and automatic sign-ins.
  3. Sports Portal: Easily keep track of your favorite sports teams’ schedules, scores, and even odds, all in one place.
  4. Chatbot: This feature helps troubleshoot issues by letting you ask the TV questions, like why your picture isn’t looking right, and it directs you to the right settings.

While the chatbot is still a bit of a work-in-progress, the convenience of asking your TV for help rather than navigating through menus yourself is a promising addition.

This update is part of LG’s broader strategy to make their TVs more valuable over time by offering consistent software improvements. LG’s five-year update promise is beneficial for buyers, but with Samsung recently announcing seven years of updates for its TVs, the competition is heating up in terms of long-term support for smart TVs.