LG to Launch webOS 3.0 for Smart TVs at CES 2016

LG has confirmed plans to launch the next-generation of its webOS smart TV platform at the upcoming International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The company's new webOS 3.0-based smart TVs will be showcased at the company's booth at the CES from January 6-9.

The South Korean company has announced that it will reveal its new range of Smart TVs featuring the latest webOS 3.0 smart TV platform. LG has also detailed new features from its latest smart TV platform including Magic Zoom, which will allow users to magnify objects and letters without any loss in picture quality; Magic Mobile Connection, which will allow users to connect their smartphones to the smart TV via the LG TV Plus app and access mobile apps on the TV screen, and an upgraded Magic Remote, which is said to be designed to make controlling set-top boxes easier with the addition of new buttons.

The company adds that the Screen Remote feature has been also tweaked to simplify the user interface for less clutter and more convenience. webOS 3.0 will also bring the Channel Plus feature that will provide a range of over-the-top (OTT) content. LG revealed that for the new Channel Plus feature it tied up with Xumo. Channel Plus will offer free digital content from broadcasters and publications including Bloomberg, Time, Conde Nast Entertainment, and The Wall Street Journal.

Some of the other new webOS 3.0 features include Channel Advisor, which analyses viewing patterns of users and displays upcoming time slots; Multi-view which will allow users to watch two different channels at the same time or even a channel and a Blu-ray movie; Music Player app will play music through the webOS 3.0 TV speakers while the TV is switched off; My Channels and Live Menu have been upgraded, and IoTV app allows on-screen control of smart home appliances from LG and other manufacturers.

Commenting on the announcement, Brian Kwon, President and CEO at LG's Home Entertainment Company said, "We are excited about webOS 3.0, a major update since this advanced TV platform technology was first introduced in 2014. The webOS story of simple connection, simple switching and simple discovery has really connected with customers and illustrates very clearly our commitment to securing a leadership role in the smart TV market with innovation and creativity."