LG's Latest Free TV Update Dramatically Boosts Dolby Vision HDR Performance

LG has rolled out a major firmware update that significantly enhances Dolby Vision HDR performance across its 2024 and 2025 TV lineup, addressing persistent brightness and color accuracy issues that have been a source of frustration for home theater enthusiasts.

The update, which is being delivered free to compatible LG OLED and QNED models, represents one of the most substantial HDR performance improvements the company has implemented through software alone. According to early testing by display calibration experts, the update delivers up to 30% better peak brightness in Dolby Vision content, along with more accurate color reproduction and reduced haloing around bright objects.

Technical Improvements Behind the Update

The firmware addresses several technical limitations that have historically affected LG's Dolby Vision implementation. The update optimizes the TV's dynamic metadata processing, allowing for more precise scene-by-scene adjustments that better match the creator's intended look. Additionally, LG has refined its tone mapping algorithms, which determine how the TV handles the extreme brightness ranges present in HDR content.

"This is the kind of update that makes you wonder why it wasn't implemented from the start," notes one professional calibrator who tested the update on an LG G4 OLED. "The difference in challenging scenes—particularly those with bright highlights against dark backgrounds—is immediately noticeable."

Impact on Different TV Models

The performance gains vary somewhat by model series. LG's 2024 G4 and C4 OLEDs show the most dramatic improvements, with the C4 series seeing particularly notable gains in shadow detail preservation. The 2025 models, including the new G5 and C5 series, also benefit from the update, though the improvements are more incremental given their already enhanced HDR processing capabilities.

LG's QNED (Quantum NanoCell Emitting Diode) models from both years also receive the update, with the Mini LED backlighting zones being better utilized to deliver improved local dimming performance in HDR content.

How to Install the Update

Users can check for the update by navigating to Settings > Support > Software Update on their LG TVs. The update requires approximately 500MB of free space and takes about 10 minutes to install. LG recommends ensuring the TV remains powered on and connected to the internet throughout the installation process.

For those who have their TVs professionally calibrated, it's worth noting that the update may affect existing calibration settings. LG recommends running a new calibration after installing the update to ensure optimal performance.

Industry Context

This update comes at a time when HDR performance has become a key differentiator in the premium TV market. While LG has long been praised for its OLED technology, its Dolby Vision implementation has occasionally lagged behind competitors like Sony and Samsung in terms of brightness and color volume.

The update suggests LG is committed to addressing these gaps through software improvements rather than requiring customers to purchase new hardware. This approach aligns with a growing trend in the TV industry, where manufacturers are increasingly using firmware updates to enhance features and performance post-purchase.

User Experience Improvements

Beyond the technical metrics, users report that the update makes HDR content more visually comfortable to watch, particularly in brighter viewing environments. The improved brightness headroom means that highlights retain their impact without requiring viewers to dim their rooms to uncomfortable levels.

Color volume has also seen noticeable improvements, with reds and greens showing particular enhancement. This is especially apparent in nature documentaries and HDR gaming content, where vibrant colors play a crucial role in the viewing experience.

Future Implications

The success of this update may influence how LG approaches HDR performance in future models. By demonstrating that significant improvements can be delivered through software, LG may be able to focus more resources on other aspects of picture quality in upcoming releases.

For current LG TV owners, the update serves as a reminder of the value of keeping their sets updated. What might have been considered a very good HDR experience can now compete with the best available, all without additional cost.

The update is being rolled out globally throughout February, with all eligible models expected to have access by the end of the month. Users experiencing issues with the update or those who don't see it available can contact LG support for assistance.

This development represents a significant win for LG TV owners and demonstrates the potential for manufacturers to substantially improve product performance long after the initial purchase, potentially changing how consumers evaluate long-term value in premium televisions.