LG has recently added the Microsoft Copilot application to some of its smart TV models, but users are disappointed to find that the app cannot be uninstalled. This move raises concerns about forced AI integration on consumer devices without providing user control.
AI Integration Without User Consent
At CES 2025, LG announced plans to bring Microsoft’s AI assistant to its smart TVs. Contrary to popular expectations that the Copilot app would be available as an optional third-party app—similar to Netflix or YouTube—LG made it a system-level application that cannot be removed. Several LG TV users confirmed on Reddit that the Copilot app appeared automatically on their TV interfaces following a recent update to webOS. While the app can be hidden, no uninstall option exists. Interestingly, other AI-related features like voice recognition and personalization can be disabled or uninstalled.
The app remains unobtrusive if unused and unlogged by the user, but the main concern remains that LG is adding bloatware to an already crowded smart TV interface. Users argue that an uninstall option would respect user choice and preferences, especially for those uninterested in AI functionality on their TVs.
Instead of a deep integration, launching the Copilot app directs users to its web-based AI service, where general queries can be asked. The lack of strong integration and unique value-added features—such as tailored viewing experiences based on watching habits—makes this forced installation more frustrating. LG has yet to respond to user backlash or indicate if future updates will allow uninstalling Copilot.
Other Brands Follow Suit
LG is not alone in enforcing AI features on smart TVs without uninstall options. The latest TCL models come preloaded with Google’s Gemini chatbot, while Samsung’s 2025 models, including the Flame series and Micro RGB lineup, also feature Microsoft Copilot with no uninstall option available.
New Content Tracking Feature Enabled by Default
Live Plus option in LG smart TV settings. | Image by Redditor defjam16
Along with the Copilot app, LG has introduced a new feature called Live Plus, which is enabled by default. According to the description in the TV’s settings, this feature tracks users’ viewing habits and uses the collected data to deliver personalized content recommendations and advertisements. Essentially, enabling Live Plus allows LG to share viewing data with advertisers for targeted advertising.
Fortunately, LG allows users to disable this feature manually by going to Settings > General > Additional Settings and turning off the Live Plus toggle. This addition highlights how smart TVs are evolving into platforms heavily focused on data collection and ad targeting, comparable to smartphones.
No Demand for AI on TVs
While AI on smartphones provides clear enhancements, and PC integration is logical for many users, the sudden push to embed AI assistants into smart TVs feels unnecessary and user-unfriendly. Many consumers prefer to use AI on devices already optimized for it, such as their smartphones or computers, rather than turning on their TVs just to access the same functionalities.
LG has yet to release an official statement addressing these concerns. It remains to be seen whether they will respond to customer feedback by allowing users to remove Copilot or if this non-removable AI integration will become a fixed element of future webOS updates.
