LG launches webOS smart TVs

LG has launched its new smart TV platform webOS at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, claiming that it will be included in “more than 70%” of LG’s smart TVs in 2014.

LG said that webOS, a platform it bought a year ago from HP, offers an intuitive interface, makes it easy for developers to create apps, and enhances the compatibility of LG’s smart TVs with other devices.

Among the features of webOS is a left-to-right scrollable menu that runs along the lower portion of the screen. This lets viewers switch between broadcast TV, smart TV content and media stored on external devices without having to return to the TV’s home screen. Users can also simultaneously watch a show, play a game or browse the internet while searching or downloading other content.

A ‘Today menu’ that runs across the centre of the screen is a recommendation service that suggests popular TV shows, movies and programs a viewer has missed, while the LG Store lets users browse for compatible smart TV apps.

“The beauty of webOS is that it provides so much freedom, and is so simple to use. We feel confident that consumers will find navigating, exploring and switching between different forms of content on webOS a truly enjoyable, not frustrating, experience,” said In-kyu Lee, senior vice-president and head of the TV division at the LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company.