How to Add Apps to Your LG Smart TV

The basic steps to install an app on an LG Smart TV

To add an app to your LG Smart TV, open the LG Content Store (also called the LG App Store) from your home screen, search for the app you want, and select Install. The app downloads and appears on your home screen or in your apps folder within a few minutes. Most LG TVs made after 2016 use this same process, though the exact menu names vary slightly by model year.

You do not need a separate account to install apps — your TV connects to the LG Content Store using your internet connection. However, you will need to sign into individual apps (like Netflix or Hulu) once they are installed if you want to use them.

Key Takeaways

Open the LG Content Store from your home screen, search for the app by name, and tap Install to download it to your TV.
Your TV must be connected to the internet via WiFi or ethernet for the app store to load and for downloads to work.
Apps appear on your home screen or in a dedicated apps folder after installation, and you can move or delete them from there.
If an app will not install, restart your TV, check your internet connection, and make sure your TV model supports the app.

Finding and opening the LG Content Store

On most LG Smart TVs, the LG Content Store is a tile or icon on your home screen. Press the Home button on your remote to see your main menu, then look for an icon labeled "LG Content Store," "App Store," or sometimes just a shopping bag symbol. Select it and wait for the store to load — this takes 10 to 30 seconds depending on your internet speed.

If you do not see the app store on your home screen, it may be in a folder or menu. Check for a folder labeled "Apps" or "My Apps," or look in your TV's settings menu under Apps or Applications. On some older LG models, you may need to go to Settings > All Settings > Apps to reach the store.

Searching for and installing an app

Once the LG Content Store is open, use the search function (usually a magnifying glass icon at the top) to find the app you want. Type the app name using your remote — most LG remotes have a keyboard or voice search option. Select the app from the results list.

On the app's page, you will see an Install button (sometimes labeled "Get" or "Download"). Select it. The app begins downloading immediately. You will see a progress bar or loading indicator. Once the download finishes, the button changes to "Open" or "Installed," and the app appears on your home screen or in your apps folder.

Installation usually takes 2 to 5 minutes for smaller apps and up to 15 minutes for larger ones like streaming services. Your TV does not need to be restarted during this time, and you can continue watching TV or using other apps while the download happens in the background.

Moving and organizing apps on your home screen

After an app installs, it typically appears as a new tile on your home screen or in an apps folder. To move an app, highlight it with your remote, press and hold the OK or Select button, then use the arrow buttons to drag it to a new position. Release the button to drop it in place.

If you want to remove an app from your home screen (but keep it installed on your TV), highlight it, press and hold OK, and select "Remove from Home" or "Hide." The app stays in your TV's storage and your apps folder, but the tile disappears from the main screen. To delete an app entirely from your TV, highlight it and select "Uninstall" or "Delete" — this frees up storage space.

Troubleshooting when an app will not install

If an app fails to install or gets stuck, first check that your TV is connected to the internet. Go to Settings > Network or Settings > WiFi and confirm you are connected. If the connection is weak, move your router closer to the TV or restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.

Next, restart your TV by unplugging it from power for one minute, then plugging it back in. This clears temporary files that sometimes block downloads. Once the TV restarts, try installing the app again.

If the app still will not install, the app may not be available for your TV model or region. Check the app's page in the LG Content Store — it will show a message like "Not available in your region" or "Not compatible with your TV" if this is the case. Some apps are only available on newer LG TV models or in certain countries.

Checking your TV's available storage space

LG Smart TVs have limited built-in storage, usually between 4 and 16 gigabytes depending on the model. If you install many large apps, you may run out of space. To check how much storage you have left, go to Settings > Storage or Settings > Device Info > Storage.

If storage is full or nearly full, uninstall apps you no longer use. Highlight the app, select Uninstall, and confirm. You can always reinstall it later from the LG Content Store. Clearing your TV's cache (Settings > Apps > System Apps > LG Content Store > Clear Cache) can also free up a small amount of space without uninstalling apps.

Signing into apps after installation

Once an app is installed, you may need to sign in with your account to use it. Open the app and look for a Sign In, Log In, or Create Account button. Enter your username and password (or email and password) for that service. Some apps let you sign in with your Google account or Apple ID instead of creating a separate login.

If you forget your password, most apps have a "Forgot Password" link on the sign-in screen. You will usually receive a password reset link by email. Set a new password and try signing in again on your TV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install apps that are not in the LG Content Store?

No, LG Smart TVs only install apps from the official LG Content Store. You cannot sideload apps from other sources or install apps designed for phones or computers. The LG Content Store includes most major streaming services, but some smaller or regional apps may not be available.

Do I need to pay to install apps from the LG Content Store?

Most apps in the LG Content Store are free to download and install. Some apps may charge a one-time purchase fee or require a subscription to use (like premium versions of games or specialized services), but the installation itself is free. The app's page will show the price before you install.

What happens to my apps if I factory reset my TV?

A factory reset erases all installed apps and returns your TV to its original state. You will need to reinstall each app from the LG Content Store afterward. Your sign-in information for individual apps is also erased, so you will need to log in again.

Why does my TV say an app is not compatible?

Compatibility issues usually mean your TV model is too old or the app requires a newer version of LG's operating system (webOS). Some apps are only available on LG TVs from 2018 or later, for example. Check your TV's model number and year in Settings > Device Info to see if an update is available.

Can I install the same app on multiple LG TVs?

Yes, you can install the same app on as many LG TVs as you own. Each TV installs the app independently from the LG Content Store. You will need to sign into the app separately on each TV if it requires an account.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.