LG promises WebOS smart TV update for CES

WebOS 3.0 comes with two new features: Magic Zoom allows viewers to magnify objects and letters "without any degradation in picture quality." Magic Mobile Connection lets users link a phone to their TV so they can access mobile apps through the TV.

LG said it will also introduce an upgraded version of its wireless remote control dubbed the Magic Remote. The new one has additional buttons to make it easier to control set-top boxes.

A multi-view mode allows two different channels to be displayed at the same time. The channel advisor software will attempt to learn what shows viewers like and then highlight upcoming broadcasts, and the music player software can play audio even when the TV screen is off.

LG has also built control for smart home appliances into the software. The appliances will need to be compatible with LG's IoTV platform.

Originally developed by Palm, then sold to HP and later to LG, the webOS platform has become the base software system for most advanced LG televisions sold in the last couple of years.

With a distinctive teardrop on-screen cursor, the system allows users to bring in numerous Internet channels in addition to broadcast TV and prerecorded content.