LG Electronics USA announced that 2018 LG OLED TVs and LG SUPER UHD TVs with AI ThinQ are now compatible with Alexa-enabled devices through the LG SmartThinQ Skill for Amazon Alexa. The company claims that the collaboration between LG and Amazon will enable consumers to control their 2018 LG AI-enabled TVs via voice commands to their existing Alexa-enabled devices, including Amazon Echo, Echo Show, Echo Dot, Echo Spot and Echo Plus, plus gain access to numerous TV functions including volume, play, pause, start, stop, fast forward controls, channel selection and content search.
Users will be able to experience voice capabilities on their 2018 LG AI TVs, including OLED and LG Super UHD TVs with AI ThinQ, by asking Amazon Alexa. Commands can now be issued, such as, “Alexa, turn up the volume on my living room TV” or “Alexa, change the channel to CNN on my kitchen TV.” Users can also open specific LG webOS Smart TV apps by saying “Alexa, ask LG to launch YouTube on my bedroom TV.”
LG’s 2018 AI-enabled TVs should expand the capabilities of the company’s premium line-up with features such as LG AI ThinQ artificial intelligence and the LG OLED Alpha 9 intelligent processor (C8, E8, W8 models). The intelligent voice control on LG AI TVs will enhance connectivity and control for the smart home and beyond, according to the Korean company.
“The addition of Amazon Alexa compatibility to our 2018 LG AI-enabled TVs spotlights LG’s commitment to developing category-leading TVs that combine innovative technologies with the widest range of convenient, user-friendly interfaces,” said Tim Alessi, head of home entertainment product marketing at LG Electronics USA. “LG’s open platform-open partnership- open connectivity ecosystem enables LG AI products to work with the most popular smart platforms to deliver the most convenient and customized smart home experience tailored to a consumer’s specific lifestyle.”
Support for the LG SmartThinQ Skill for Amazon Alexa on 2018 LG TVs adds to LG’s ‘rapidly growing AI ecosystem’ that includes a range of Wi-Fi-enabled smart appliances. When consumers ask Amazon Alexa to talk to LG, they will be able to control their TVs, as well as turn on air purifiers, turn off ice makers, start robotic vacuums etc.
It has been pointed out that LG OLED and Super UHD TVs already have Google Assistant built in, but LG is getting wise to fact that a voice assistant already embedded in a device that is actually delivering audio can necessitate the shouting of commands. Consequently, an increasing number of Alexa users are buying cheaper Echo Dot devices simply to issue voice commands, rather than opt for more pricey and music-proficient Echo products.
Let us know your thoughts below on Alexa voice control for your TVs or wider home automation functions…
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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