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How to Change Default Region on LG Smart TVs

Having an LG smart TV gives you access to a wide variety of apps and streaming services. However, the availability of apps and services depends on your TV’s set region. If your region doesn’t have the app or service you want, you may need to change your LG TV’s default region.

Changing the default region on LG smart TVs is possible but can be tricky. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process.

Why Change the Default Region on an LG Smart TV

Here are some of the main reasons you may want to change your LG TV’s default region:

  • Access more apps and services: Certain apps and streaming services like Hulu, HBO Max, etc. are only available in certain regions. Changing your region gives you access to more content.
  • Use TV features not available in your region: Some LG TV models have features that are limited to specific regions. Changing your region lets you access those missing features.
  • Get better app support: App support and updates depend on your set region. Switching to a more supported region gives you a better app experience.

Before You Change the Region

Before changing your LG TV’s region, keep a few things in mind:

  • Your LG TV model needs to support region changes. Most recent LG TVs allow region switches.
  • Region change erases all saved data and settings. So back up anything important first.
  • You can only switch to countries within your TV’s broad region. For example, a TV purchased in Europe can only switch to European countries.
  • After region change, you may need to re-enter service agreements and permissions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Change Region

Follow these steps to change the default region on your LG smart TV:

1. Access the Settings Menu

  • Press the Settings button on your LG TV remote.
  • Alternatively, you can select the cog icon from the ribbon menu at the bottom to access Settings.

2. Open General Settings

  • From the Settings menu, select All Settings.
  • Next, choose General.

3. Select Location

  • From General settings, select Location.

4. Change Service Country

  • Choose LG Services Country.
  • Disable Set Automatically.
  • Manually select a new country from the list.

5. Confirm Region Change

  • Your TV will warn you that changing regions will reset all settings. Select Yes.
  • The TV will reboot with the new region set.

Once your TV starts up again, the default region will be changed to your newly selected country. You’ll have to go through the initial setup process again. But now you’ll have access to apps and features based on the new region.

Tips for Changing LG TV Region

Here are some useful tips to smoothly change regions on your LG smart TV:

  • Note down default region code before making the change. This lets you switch back if needed.
  • Select a compatible country from your broad region for best app support.
  • Use a VPN router to virtually switch regions for streaming apps. No need to factory reset.
  • Some apps like Netflix may still detect your actual location. A VPN helps avoid this.
  • If display language changes, you can switch it back from General settings.

Downsides of Region Change

While changing regions on LG TVs opens up more features, here are some downsides to consider:

  • Factory reset erases all saved settings and data. You have to set up the TV again.
  • New region may not have the same level of software updates and support.
  • Language settings may default back and need to be switched again.
  • Some services still use device location, so VPN may be needed.
  • Excess region switches can get your TV blocked from accessing services.

So weigh the pros and cons before changing regions on your LG smart TV. For most features like apps and software updates, simply changing the service country is enough. But for streaming restrictions, using a VPN router is the best option.

Conclusion

Changing the default region on LG TVs takes only a few steps but needs proper precautions. This guide covers the region change process from start to finish. Ensure your TV model supports region changes. Back up important data. Select a compatible new country. And re-enter all permissions and agreements as prompted.

With the new region set, factory reset complete, and initial setup done, you’ll now have access to apps, features, and services based on the country you chose. You can also switch back to the factory default region using the saved code whenever needed. Just keep the downsides in mind.

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