Modern Web Browser

[Brennan Phoenix]

According to the developer site, the Web Engine powering the Apps and I assume the Web Browser on WebOS is built on version 53 of Chromium (for 2018-2019 models) or Chromium 68 (for 2020 models). Version 53 is from 2016, and 68 is from 2018. The current version is 85.

The latest version of JavaScript used  by modern websites (ES7) is only supported in version 68 and above, and there has been some evidence that although WebOS is using version 53 of Chromium the browser is not fully compatible with the previous JavaScript version (ES6).

The result is that by keeping the WebOS browsers locked in older Chromium bases users will find more websites become unusable on our Smart TVs as old sites are upgraded to new versions and new sites come out. This is not an issue for Android based Smart TVs where users can install current web browsers of their choice.

LG is supposed to be a leader in technology- I have been incredibly pleased with my LG phones and other appliances but am extremely disappointed with the proprietary WebOS browser on LG Smart TVs. IN 2020 it is unacceptable thar such a fundamental function of a smart device (web browsing) is so out of date.

[dazagrt]

Excellent post, something LG might finally listen to due to its technical basis.

If you agree please reply to the OP’s post because change in this topic is way overdue.

LG WE WANT CHANGE!

[david casselman]

COME ON LG do something about this ice age browser, enough is enough of this dinosaur!!!!!!!!!!!

[Vitalijs Voronovs]

Currently I am unable to use my LG for the only reason I have bought exactly due to this topic. Now I have to consider buying another tv. And chances are very little it will be LG since their product is becoming unsupported a little after it’s purchase. 
 

sad. 

[Brendan Cameron]

LG ! Time is up for the webOS browser. Roll up your sleeves and get cracking on a new fully functional browser ASAP.

PS: Love my OLED Tv. Love the service you have provided me.

[Nickey McCasland]

Amen to the above. 

It is bizarre for LG  to lag so far behind in this essential component of today's on-line entertainment.

[td47]

@Brennan Phoenix I wholeheartedly agree with your excellent post. It is great that you have"pointed the finger" so well, with facts and figures that they cannot refute and excuse. 

As you and others are saying, this current state of affairs with such an important Smart TV function (a workable and updateable browser), compared with the equivalent Android situation, positions LG in a very bad light compared with other manufacturers.  This has certainly opened my eyes VERY WIDE, so when I am ready to change my TV, LG may well be very low down the shopping list!!

[Frank H]

Does anyone know how to upload a new browser? I have a 55UK6090PUA model. I can't use my bluetooth keyboard. After using the the point and click method to enter a web site, it says it is not compatible with the current browser. 

[Brennan Phoenix]

You cannot upload a new browser. You can only install apps from the LG content store on the TV, and none of these are browsers. You are stuck with the LG browser which they are only slowly bringing up to date.

[sbzz]

It's quite a big surprise to me that people by TV because of the browser. That's not the primary purpose of a TV even for a 'smart' one.