LG updates TVs with AirPlay 2 as Apple TV+ launch approaches

LG launches AirPlay 2 support on current TVs

Expect a rash of software updates for existing TVs from Sony, LG, Samsung and Vizio over the next couple of weeks as manufacturers push AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support into their televisions.

Getting ready for Apple’s TV channel

LG Electronics gets the prize for being the first to update existing sets with support for AirPlay 2 and HomeKit. Samsung began updating its sets with support for Apple TV app in May — this is a deeper integration which Samsung seems to have an exclusive on use of at the moment.

Apple wowed CES this year when it revealed plans to make its products more compatible with other people’s television sets (here’s a partial list of supported TVs).

The move was seen as highly significant as it showed just how far the company is willing to go to attract viewers to its own content provision services, particularly around Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade.

LG Electronics (LG) today announced that Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit are available starting July 25 on its 2019 AI TV line up, making LG the first global TV manufacturer to support HomeKit.

These Apple features will be available through a firmware update for 2019 LG OLED TVs, NanoCell TVs and UHD TVs with ThinQ AI capability.

How does this work?

With AirPlay 2, LG 2019 AI TV owners can effortlessly stream content — including Dolby Vision titles – from iPhone, iPad and Mac straight to their TV sets.

Users can stream their favorite movies and television shows from the Apple TV app and other video apps as well as view photos directly on their LG AI TVs.

Users can also play Apple Podcasts, Apple Music and music from their library or other streaming services through their LG AI TV and other AirPlay 2-compatible speakers in their home at the same time – all in sync. (PR)

LG AI TVs can be easily added to the Home app, from which users can access basic TV functions such as power, volume and source. LG AI TVs can also be added to scenes or automations along with other HomeKit accessories.

What LG is saying:

“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.”

Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit will begin rolling out to owners of LG OLED and NanoCell TVs in more than 140 countries starting this week, with the update continuing over the weeks to follow.

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