LG TVs to have Apple HomeKit and AirPlay 2

A TV from LG Electronics operating with Apple’s HomeKit. [LG ELECTRONICS]

LG Electronics will offer Apple upgrades on some of its TVs starting Thursday.

It will be the first TV manufacturer to integrate Apple’s HomeKit into its products. The HomeKit is a system that allows for control of connected appliances at home using voice commands via the Home app or Siri.

The AirPlay 2 enables customers to stream content from other Apple devices - including iPhones, iPads and Mac computers - to their TV sets. This means they can stream movies and shows from the Apple TV app, play songs from Apple Music and listen to Apple’s Podcasts app.

The software update will be available on LG OLED TVs, NanoCell TVs and ultra-high definition (UHD) TVs equipped with the company’s ThinQ Internet of Things (IoT) software.

However, it won’t immediately be available on every model. OLED TVs will be capable starting Thursday, while other products will be updated gradually throughout the year.

Those purchasing the upgraded models can enjoy the Apple functions by downloading the latest firmware.

The updates for AirPlay 2 and HomeKit will be offered to owners of LG OLED and NanoCell TVs in more than 140 countries over the next few weeks. Upgrades will be available in Korea first.

“LG remains at the forefront of TV technological innovation because of our never-ending quest to deliver the best home viewing experience,” said Brian Kwon, president LG Mobile Communications and Home Entertainment companies.

“With Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support, we are demonstrating our commitment to offering consumer benefits that go beyond just best-in-class picture quality.”

The partnership with Apple is an element of LG’s ongoing strategy to partner with external IT companies in a move to expand the range of functions and content available through its TVs.

Last year, LG began incorporating Google Assistant functions into its high-end TVs, and it hopes to add Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant this year. LG’s smart TVs will be the first in the sector to offer both options.

BY SONG KYOUNG-SON [song.kyoungson@joongang.co.kr]