Next-generation LG Smart TVs will link with any smartphone

LG is taking a big step towards creating a connected home platform by adopting AllJoyn.

LG is taking a big step towards creating a connected home platform by adopting AllJoyn.

AllJoyn is an open-source protocol, built by Qualcomm which basically allows potentially any mobile device, whether it's Apple, Android, Windows Phone or even BlackBerry, to control a TV. And in this case, control doesn't just mean changing channels, it could allow users to push content from one device to another or on to the big screen.

Of the announcement, Richard Choi, senior vice-president of the smart business center at LG Electronics, said: 'LG will now enable consumers to more effortlessly connect their networked devices in the home and continues to show a strong commitment to the next generation of convergence technology.'

The software will be integrated into LG's 2014 Smart TVs but older TVs from 2012 and 2013 will also be receiving a compatibility update over the air. Adopting AllJoyn will mean that friends gathered around a Smart TV with different phones could all use them simultaneously as joypads in social gaming.

But that's just the start. The open source platform could act as a very sound foundation for building an equally open connected home.

'LG sees great potential and huge possibilities in connecting multiple display products with one TV,' added Choi. 'Facilitating true smart home convergence, LG Smart TVs will now be able to seamlessly connect to devices regardless of brand or OS, a first-of-its-kind milestone in the home entertainment industry.'