LG has provided some details on its planned 2015 updates to the webOS smart TV platform it introduced earlier this year. WebOS 2.0 smart TVs will have faster start-up times, the new My Channels app allows for better customization of the toolbar, and Input Picker helps the TV instantly recognize connected devices, such as cable/satellite set-top boxes, for integration into the smart TV system.

From LG
LG Electronics will unveil an expansive TV lineup featuring the company's new "webOS 2.0" Smart TV platform at the 2015 International CES, Jan. 6-9 in Las Vegas.

LG's webOS 2.0 is specifically designed to deliver a superior user experience by improving upon the key features found in the current generation of Smart TVs using the award-winning webOS system introduced earlier this year. LG is working with leading content providers such as Amazon and Netflix to ensure that LG 4K ULTRA HD TV owners have access to a wide range of 4K viewing options.

Designed to "Make TV Simple Again," webOS TV was developed to address the growing frustration with overly complex smart TVs. With a focus on three overarching features--Simple Connection, Simple Switching and Simple Discovery--webOS makes navigating today's state-of-the-art TV systems easier than ever. Consumers embraced LG's webOS platform and global unit sales of webOS-equipped LG Smart TVs topped the one million mark in the first two months after its introduction earlier this year and recorded more than five million unit sales within eight months.

LG's webOS 2.0 takes simplicity and convenience to a new level even while managing an expanding array of content options, so consumers can chose easily from a long list of new features. For example, the initial boot time when the TV is turned on has been reduced by up to 60 percent. Users will also enjoy a 70 percent improvement in loading when switching from the Smart TV Home Screen to YouTube, making accessing content significantly smoother and faster.

Also new in 2015 with webOS 2.0 is "My Channels," an app that allows users to customize their favorite live TV or set-top box channels on the Launcher Bar for greater convenience. Quick Settings lets viewers adjust their TV without interrupting the program they're watching, and Input Picker allows connected devices to be recognized instantly for immediate use.

Through partnerships with major content providers, webOS TV owners can access an extensive selection of Ultra HD content from streaming services such as Amazon Instant Video and Netflix.

"By updating webOS with new and smarter features, users will experience a next-generation Smart TV platform that's simpler, easier and more intuitive than ever before," said In-kyu Lee, senior vice president and head of the TV and monitor division at the LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company. "The webOS 2.0 platform is another example of LG's commitment to taking a leadership role in the next generation TV market with an innovative Smart TV solution."

Additional Resources
• LG Will Show Off Quantum Dot 4K TVs at CES at HomeTheaterReview.com.
• LG Officially Ends Plasma Production at HomeTheaterReview.com.