Starting today, LG is rolling out a firmware update to 2020 TV models to give owners an option to use the redesigned full-screen webOS of 2022 models.

LG's webOS was for years built around a bottom bar menu, a sort of app drawer that was later expanded to also include content previews and shortcuts, but in 2021 the company introduced a completely redesigned webOS user interface in full-screen.

This full-screen webOS is now also coming to 2020 models including the CX and GX OLED models. Specifically, LG is updating 2020 TV models with webOS 5 to a full-screen homescreen resembling webOS 6 on the 2022 models.




- "To answer your question, LG has always strived to support our TVs long after the consumer has purchased it. The current updates that you are asking about to webOS 5.0 are meant to improve usability/navigation for those opting for the new version," David Seperson, Director HE Marketing and Communications at LG in Korea, told FlatpanelsHD.

The firmware (ver. 4.41.35) will gradually start to roll out today, May 17, to compatible models (see table).

LG Korea added that owners will have the option to choose between full-screen webOS or keep the existing bottom bar. Go to Settings -> General -> Home settings -> Home screen style.


webOS 23 exclusive to 2023 models
In 2023, LG is once again tweaking the webOS user interface with a more streamlined look, still in full-screen. webOS 23 will remain exclusive to the 2023 models.

LG did not announce plans to upgrade webOS in other models or in any way continue this practice going forward. So it is most likely a one-time thing.

Why? While the full-screen webOS experience provides various advantages and features to users, it also shows ads and recommendations that make LG money after the sale of the TV. 

LG 2020 TVs with webOS 5 getting the update
 FlatpanelsHD