How To Install 3rd Party Apps On LG Smart TV

While TVs started out as small boxes capable of only projecting local TV channels, nowadays they have evolved and become big flat smart devices, able to stream DVDs, USB flash disc content, streaming media services, YouTube videos, and even 3rd party apps. In a way, smart TVs are no different than smartphones and tablets. You can use them for watching movies, TV shows, playing games, using a browser, surfing the web, installing and using apps, etc. There are many high-quality smart TV manufacturers and LG is one of the best smart TV companies. However, users tend to be confused about whether or not it is possible to install 3rd party apps on LG Smart TV and how exactly to do it. Let’s break it down.

How to Install Apps on LG Smart TV?

First, let’s take a look at how to install LG’s original apps on LG smart TV. The process is quick, simple, and very user-friendly.

LG Smart TV runs either on LG Web OS or on Netcast (software systems or platforms for installing apps). The app installation process differs slightly depending on the software system your LG smart TV works on. Therefore, make sure to first figure out which software system you have.

1. Installing Apps using web OS

Start by turning on your LG smart TV.
Connect the device to Wi-Fi, a mobile hotspot, or another internet connection.
Go to your home menu by pressing the ‘home/quick’ button on your remote control.
In the right bottom corner, you will find a More Apps Button. Select it.
Go to the LG content store by selecting the ‘Premium’ option. There, you will find a list of TV shows, movies, and apps.
Select ‘Apps’ on the side menu.
Find the app you would like to install by scrolling down the list or by using the search bar.
Click on the app and select ‘Install’ to initiate the downloading process.
As soon as the installing process is complete, the app will appear on your home screen. There, you can launch the app and start using it.

2. Installing Apps using Netcast

Start by turning on your LG smart TV.
Connect the device to Wi-Fi, a mobile hotspot, or another internet connection.
Go to the quick menu by pressing the ‘home/smart’ button on your remote control.
Select the ‘Premium’ option.
Find the app you would like to install by scrolling down the list, by selecting the category, or by using the search bar.
Click on the app and select ‘Install’ to initiate the downloading process.
As soon as the installing process is complete, the app will appear on your home screen. There, you can launch the app and start using it.

Is it Possible to Install Third-party Apps on LG Smart TV?

Regardless of the software system your LG smart TV works on, it is only possible to install LG-approved apps, the ones that are available in the LG content store. Unknown apps that aren’t available in the LG content store (the so-called 3rd party apps) cannot be installed on LG smart TV.

Nonetheless, there are other ways to enjoy and stream your 3rd party apps even without installing them directly to your TV. Find out how to do so in the next chapter.

How to Install 3rd Party Apps on LG Smart TV?

To stream 3rd party apps on your LG smart TV you will have to use peripherals – streaming devices. Some of these streaming devices feature their own hardware.

The streaming devices you can use for streaming 3rd party apps on LG Smart TV are Amazon Firestick, Google Chromecast, and LG Smart Share.

1. Using Amazon Firestick on LG smart TV

Amazon Firestick is a streaming video player from Amazon that looks like an unusually large USB stick.

First, make sure to connect the Firestick device to your LG smart TV via HDMI cable.
Then, plug the streaming device into the outlet for power. Check if the stick has power.
Turn on your LG smart TV.
Press ‘Input’ or ‘Source settings’ on your remote control.
Select the chosen HDMI port. Click on Amazon Firestick to turn it on.
Activate Firestick’s remote control by putting in batteries. The Firestick and its remote will connect automatically.
Press the ‘Play/Pause’ button on your Firestick remote control to access the set-up screen.
Choose your preferred language and press OK.
Firestick will activate and automatically search for Wi-Fi signal.
Next, you will be asked to register your device by following the on-screen instructions.
Once registered, Firestick will be ready for use. If you want, you can take the on-screen tutorial for first-time users.
Finally, open your internet browser and download APK files of the apps that you would like to install.
Install and enjoy the 3rd party apps on your LG smart TV.
In addition, you can open the ‘Developer’ option in your TV settings and turn on the ‘ADB Debugging’ and ‘Unknown Source’.

2. Using Google Chromecast on LG smart TV

Google Chromecast is a device/dongle that you plug into the HDMI port of your Smart TV. Paired with your computer or smartphone, the dongle serves as a conduit to mirroring your android screen onto the screen of your smart TV. Using the Android/iOS device as a remote control, you can access and use content platforms like YouTube, Netflix, Google Play Store, and other apps, which are normally not found in the LG content store.

Start off by connecting an adaptor to Google Chromecast using a USB.
Insert the Chromecast into the HDMI port on your LG smart TV. Make sure that your Android/iOS device and the TV are connected with the same Internet connection.
Plug the device into a power outlet.
Press the ‘Input’ or ‘Source’ button (repeat a couple of times if necessary, until the Chromecast welcome logo appears on your TV screen). Select the ‘Set me up’ option that will appear on your screen.
Go to Google Play Store and download and install the Google Home app.
Access the Google Home app and follow the instructions: select ‘Get started’ and sign in to your Google account.
Select ‘New devices’ and the application it will start looking for nearby Chromecast devices.
A 4-digit code should appear on both your TV and phone screen. If the code matches on both devices, press ‘That’s my code’ in the app.
Select a name for your Chromecast device and press ‘Continue’.
Once the dongle connects to the Wi-Fi you will be able to use any app on your LG smart TV. Just make sure that the apps you are planning to use support Google Chromecast.

3. Using LG Smart Share on LG smart TV

The LG Smart Share is a built-in streaming device without its own hardware. It enables you to screencast from any device to your LG smart TV. Note that LG Smart Share doesn’t support iOS devices, therefore you will only be able to use Android devices or PCs with this streaming option. To screencast from an Apple device, use Google Chromecast instead.

To stream 3rd party apps on your LG smart TV, first, connect the peripheral device to your smart TV.
Make sure that your Android device and your LG TV is on the same Wi-Fi network.
For connection purposes, you can also use DLNA, Miracast, Wi-Fi Direct, or other software features commonly available on mobile devices.
Search for the LG Smart Share app on your LG TV. You will be able to find it in the TV’s menu.
Open the LG Smart Share app and turn on the listening mode (located on the upper right-hand corner of your TV screen).
Take your Android device and go to settings. Find the ‘Screen sharing’ or ‘Mirroring’ option in your Android device and turn it on.
Once the mirroring option is on, it will display nearby wireless connections. Find LG TV on that list and click on it.
You are now ready to enjoy your 3rd party apps on LG smart TV.

The Best Way to Stream 3rd Party Apps on Your LG Smart TV

As you have seen, you cannot install 3rd party apps directly on your LG smart TV, but you can still stream them by using one of the three streaming devices: Amazon Firestick, Google Chromecast, or LG Smart Share. All three options are reliable, easy to use, and will get the job done. However, if you have an Apple device and you wish to screencast from it to your LG TV, keep in mind that you will not be able to do so using LG Smart Share, as this app doesn’t support iOS devices.

How to Uninstall Apps on LG Smart TV

In case you want to uninstall apps, simply follow the uncomplicated process below.

Go to the app and select the ‘Edit’ mode, which allows you to move an app up and down the length of the scrolling ribbon. You will find the ‘Edit’ mode by using the right and left buttons on your remote.
Delete the unwanted app on your LG TV by selecting the ‘X’ over the app tile.
The device may ask you to confirm the deletion. Press ‘Yes’. When you are done, you can simply exit the ‘Edit’ mode.

FAQ

What Apps are Available for LG Smart TV?

There are many great apps and content available for LG smart TV, including Netflix, Amazon Video, YouTube, Hulu, Channel Plus, and many more. The apps offer family-friendly content, blockbuster movies, and top-rated shows. You can find all the available apps LG content store.

Does LG TV Have a Google Play Store?

LG TV currently supports Google Video Play store content. In the future, they plan on getting an app for Google play movies and TV.

Can I Install an App on LG Smart TV?

On LG smart TV you can only install apps that are authorized by the company. To do so, visit the LG content store. When it comes to 3rd party apps, you can only stream their content using extensions or peripherals on the TV. Read more in chapter 3.

Can Web OS Run Android Apps?

Yes, it can. You can download it on your Android device and enjoy your favorite shows.