LG Electronics is rolling out a major refresh of LG Channels, its free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service, with a new global identity, refined user interface and expanded personalisation features, alongside further international market launches.
Available since 2015 and now present in 33 countries with local language support, LG Channels aggregates more than 4,000 free channels accessible directly from LG Smart TVs via the webOS home screen or the LG Magic Remote. The updated branding introduces a simplified logo intended to underline the service’s customer-friendly positioning and global reach.
On-screen, LG has reworked the UX to make content discovery and navigation faster. Viewers now receive personalised recommendations based on their viewing history, while a new “quick access” layer lets users press the OK button on the Magic Remote to bring up channel details, the EPG, favourites and popular content without exiting the current programme. The aim is to keep viewers within the live experience while still surfacing alternative options.
LG Channels is also adding deeper personalisation driven by AI-based recommendation algorithms and a set of region-specific features tuned to local usage. In the US, users will be able to set reminders for upcoming shows; in Europe, a multi-audio option will allow rapid switching between dubbing languages; and in Middle Eastern markets the UI will support right-to-left text layouts.
“LG Channels is designed to give users seamless access to high-quality, engaging content,” said Chris Jo, head of the webOS Platform Business Center at the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company, adding that the upgrade is intended to make the experience “more intuitive and enjoyable for millions around the world”.
Building on existing deployments across North and South America, Europe and Asia, LG Channels is now set to expand into additional territories including the United Arab Emirates, Poland and Taiwan, as the company continues to push its owned FAST environment as a core component of the LG TV proposition.
