To add a channel on LG smart TV, you have two main options: install streaming apps from the LG Content Store or tune in broadcast channels via your antenna or cable connection. If you prefer live streaming services, you can also add YouTube TV to LG smart TV to access a full cable-replacement lineup. The fastest way to add a channel on LG smart TV for live TV is using the built-in "My Channel" feature, which lets you build a custom list of your favorite broadcast channels without any complicated setup.
What does 'add a channel on LG smart TV' mean?
The first meaning is installing streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, or Pluto TV from the LG Content Store, these are internet-based services that appear as "channels" in your app list. The second meaning is tuning in over-the-air broadcast channels (from an antenna) or cable channels, which is what the TV's built-in tuner handles. This article focuses on the broadcast channel meaning, because that's what most users are actually trying to do when they ask how to add a channel. However, we'll also clarify the difference so you know exactly which method fits your needs.
Understanding the distinction matters because the steps are completely different. Adding a streaming app involves browsing the LG Content Store, while adding a broadcast channel requires scanning for available signals. If you have a set-top box from your cable or satellite provider, you don't need to tune channels on the TV at all, you just switch inputs. But for free over-the-air TV, you'll use the tuning methods described below, which can help you quickly find the CBS channel on an LG smart TV in your area. The good news is that LG smart TVs support both approaches, so you can mix streaming apps and live broadcast channels to get the full range of the channels available on an LG smart TV.
Add channels quickly with My Channel (LG Channels)
The quickest way to add a broadcast channel on your LG smart TV is using the "My Channel" feature. This lets you create a personalized list of your favorite channels so you don't have to scroll through the entire channel list every time. It's perfect for the channels you watch most often. Here's the verified step-by-step process:
- Press the Home button on your Magic Remote.
- Select My Channel at the bottom left of the screen.
- Select Add Channel at the bottom right of the screen.
- The channel list will appear, choose a channel you wish to add from the list.
- You can select more channels on the "My Channel" list in the same way.
- After selecting your channels, press Exit on the top left of the screen.
The selected channels will appear at the bottom of your "My Channel" list, giving you one-tap access to your favorites. This method works on all webOS-based LG smart TVs, though the exact on-screen layout may vary slightly depending on your model. If you want to reorder or remove channels from this list later, just go back to "My Channel" and use the edit options.
Add broadcast channels using Auto Tuning
If you want to add all available broadcast channels in your area at once, Auto Tuning is the way to go. This scans for every channel your antenna or cable connection can receive and adds them to your TV's channel list. It's the most comprehensive method and ensures you don't miss anything. Follow these verified steps:
- Ensure the antenna cable is securely connected to the antenna port on the back of the TV. If your TV has two ports, connect the cable to the Antenna/Cable input port. If you installed a separate UHD antenna, connect the cable to the UHD TV Antenna input port.
- Press the Settings button (gear wheel icon) on your remote.
- Select All Settings (represented by 3 vertical dots).
- Select Programmes or General then Channels.
- Select Programme Tuning & Settings or Channel Tuning.
- Select Auto Tuning.
The TV will now scan for all available channels. This may take a few minutes, depending on how many channels are in your area. Once complete, you'll see a list of found channels that you can browse through. If you're using a set-top box (like a cable or satellite receiver), you do not need to run Auto Tuning, simply change the TV input to the one connected to your set-top box, and you'll get all your channels through that device.
Use Manual Tuning for specific channels or signal checks
Sometimes Auto Tuning doesn't pick up a specific channel you know exists, or you want to check the signal strength of a particular frequency. That's where Manual Tuning comes in. This method lets you enter a specific channel number or frequency and test whether it's being received properly. It's especially useful for troubleshooting weak signals or adding channels that were missed during the automatic scan. Here's how to do it:
- Follow the initial steps for Auto Tuning: Press the Settings button, select All Settings, then General, then Channels.
- On the Channels option, select Manual Tuning.
- If you are watching cable, select Cable DTV.
- Enter the channel number or frequency you want to check.
For digital broadcasts, Manual Tuning also allows you to check the signal strength of the connected antenna. This is displayed as a signal meter on the screen, helping you adjust your antenna position for the best reception. If the signal is weak, try repositioning your antenna and re-checking the meter until you get a strong, stable signal.
Tips after adding your channels
Once you've added your channels, you might run into a few common issues. If some channels are missing after Auto Tuning, first check that your antenna is properly connected and positioned. You can also run Auto Tuning again, sometimes channels are added or removed from broadcast schedules, so a rescan can pick up new ones. If you're still missing channels, try Manual Tuning to see if the signal is present but weak.
Managing your channel list is also important. You can hide channels you don't watch, reorder them, or set your favorites using the "My Channel" feature. This keeps your channel list clean and makes it easier to find what you want. If you ever need to scan channels on LG smart TV again after moving or changing your antenna, just repeat the Auto Tuning process, it takes just a few minutes and refreshes your entire channel lineup.
Remember that the exact menu names may vary slightly depending on your LG TV model and firmware version, but the overall process is consistent across webOS devices. If you're having trouble connecting your antenna in the first place, check our guide on connecting an antenna to your LG TV for detailed setup instructions. With your channels properly added and organized, you'll have a complete entertainment setup that combines live broadcast TV with all your favorite streaming apps.
