Modern smart TVs LG TVs running the webOS platform offer users a wide range of multimedia content consumption options. However, situations often arise when the built-in Wi-Fi module isn't sufficient for stable operation, or the home network is temporarily unavailable, but you need to access a movie or game immediately. In such cases, the smartphone internet tethering feature comes to the rescue, turning your mobile device into a hotspot.
There are several ways to transfer your internet connection, and the specific method you choose depends on the model of your Android or iPhone, as well as the TV's year of manufacture. It's important to understand that creating an access point isn't simply copying the signal, but creating a new local network to which the TV connects like a regular home router. This allows for high-definition video streaming without lag, provided your mobile internet speed allows.
Before setting up, consider your data usage, as streaming video can quickly use up your data plan. Furthermore, connection stability directly depends on the quality of the cellular signal in your area. In this article, we'll cover all the details of setting up such a connection so you can enjoy your content without any hassle.
Preparing devices for connection
The first step is to check the compatibility and basic settings of both devices. Make sure your smartphone has an activated SIM card with sufficient data remaining, and that the phone itself supports tethering. Most modern models do. Samsung, Xiaomi And iPhone This feature is available by default, but in rare cases, telecom operators may block distribution, so it's worth checking this with your provider in advance.
TV LG The TV must also be ready to receive a signal. Check that the remote control is working properly and that the TV is within range of the phone's signal. The distance between the devices shouldn't be too great, as the range of a smartphone's hotspot is usually limited to a few meters, especially if the phone is in a pocket or bag.
Pay attention to your battery level. Hotspot mode significantly accelerates the battery life of your mobile device, so it's recommended to connect your smartphone to a charger or power bank while watching TV. This is especially true for older batteries, which may not be able to handle the heavy load.
⚠️ Attention: When using mobile internet on your TV, monitor your smartphone's temperature. Extended use of the modem function can cause the device to overheat and automatically disable the feature to protect its components.
Setting up a hotspot on a smartphone
The process of activating the tethering mode varies depending on the operating system of your gadget. On devices with Android You need to go to Settings, find the "Connections" or "Network & Internet" section, and select "Mobile Hotspot." Here you can set a network name (SSID) and a secure password, which you'll need to enter on the TV.
For users iOS Go to the settings menu, select "Cellular," and enable tethering. The system will automatically generate a network name and password, which you can change if desired. It's important to keep your phone's screen from turning off too quickly, as some models may turn off tethering to save power if the device is idle for a long time.
In the advanced settings of the access point, you can often select the frequency range. For TVs LG with support 5 GHz It's best to choose this band, as it provides higher data transfer speeds, which is critical for watching 4K video. If your TV is an older model, it may only see the 2.4 GHz network.
- 📱 Go to your smartphone's settings and find the "Access point" or "Tethering" section.
- 🔐 Create a strong password using letters and numbers to prevent your neighbors from connecting to your internet.
- 📡 Select the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency range depending on TV support.
- 🔋 Connect your phone to a charger to avoid sudden shutdown.
Connecting an LG TV to the created network
Once the hotspot on your phone is active, you need to turn your attention to the TV remote control. Press the button Settings (gear icon) or go to the main menu to find the network settings section. From the list of available connections, select "Wi-Fi" since we'll be connecting wirelessly.
The TV will begin searching for available networks. You should see the name (SSID) you set on your smartphone in the list. Tap it with the remote. The system will ask you to enter a password. Use the on-screen keyboard, being careful with case, as Wi-Fi is sensitive to correct character entry.
After entering the password, the TV will attempt to establish a connection. If successful, a "Connected" notification will appear on the screen, and a Wi-Fi icon will appear in the corner of the display. From this point on, all TV traffic will be routed through your mobile phone.
☑️ Checking TV connection
Sometimes the connection process may take longer than usual. This is because the TV needs to obtain an IP address from your phone. Don't interrupt the process; wait about 30 seconds. If the connection fails the first time, try turning Wi-Fi off and on again on your TV.
Screen Share via Wi-Fi Direct
If your goal is not just to give your TV internet access, but to broadcast the image from your phone screen, you will need technology Screen Share or MiracastOn TV LG This feature is often built into the Phone Display or Screen Share app. Launch it on your TV to make it visible to external devices.
On a smartphone with Android find the "Broadcast", "Smart View" or "Projection" function. iPhone "Screen Mirroring" is used via AirPlay 2, which is supported by many new LG models. The devices must be on the same network, meaning the phone must be connected to the hotspot it's sharing, or Wi-Fi Direct must be used.
Using Wi-Fi Direct, the connection is established directly between the phone and the TV, bypassing the need to create a full-fledged internet access point (if supported by the model). This allows for high-quality video streaming with minimal latency, ideal for showing presentations or browsing photo albums.
⚠️ Attention: When streaming a high-resolution screen (Full HD or 4K), there may be a noticeable delay between actions on your phone and the image on your TV. This method may not be suitable for gaming due to lag.
Why might the broadcast be interrupted?
Screencasting is a resource-intensive process. If heavy apps are running in the background on your phone or there are incoming calls, the connection may be lost. Distance also plays a role: try to stay no further than 3-5 meters from the TV.
Using the LG ThinQ app to control
For deeper integration between your smartphone and TV, manufacturers recommend using the official app. LG ThinQIt not only allows you to stream content but also use your phone as a remote control, which is especially convenient when typing to search for videos on YouTube or Netflix using your TV's browser.
To get started, download the app from Google Play or App StoreMake sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (in our case, the phone's hotspot). The app will automatically find the TV on the local network. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair, confirming the code on the TV.
The "Broadcast" feature within the app lets you send photos and videos from your phone's gallery to the big screen. It's a great way to share vacation photos with family. The app also lets you quickly switch sources or adjust the volume if the main remote is lost.
| Function | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Access point | Sharing Internet from your phone to TV | Mobile traffic, modem enabled |
| Screen Share | Mirroring your smartphone screen | Miracast/AirPlay support |
| LG ThinQ | Management and media content | Installed application on both devices |
| Wi-Fi Direct | Direct connection without a router | Technology support by both devices |
Solved connection problems and errors
Despite the simplicity of setup, users may encounter a number of difficulties. One of the most common issues is that the TV sees the network but fails to connect. In this case, try changing the security type in the access point settings on your phone, for example, from WPA3 on WPA2, as older Wi-Fi modules in TVs may not support the latest encryption standards.
Another common issue is slow video playback. This can be caused by a weak cellular signal. Check the signal strength on your phone; if it's low (1-2 bars), try moving the phone closer to a window or raising it higher. Also, make sure there are no large metal objects between the phone and the TV.
If the connection keeps dropping, your phone may be entering power-saving mode and disabling Wi-Fi. Go to battery settings and add the "Access Point" app or the system tethering process to exceptions, disabling power optimization for it.
Features of traffic consumption and pricing
Using your TV over mobile data can lead to unexpected data usage. One hour of watching HD video can consume up to 3 GB of data, and even more in 4K. Be sure to monitor your data plan limits to avoid going into the red or getting hit with an astronomical bill.
Some carriers may automatically limit your speed after using a certain amount of data while tethering, even if you have an unlimited smartphone plan. This is called "tethering." Check your contract terms to understand your actual connection capabilities.
⚠️ Attention: Tariff plan terms and internet tethering rules are subject to change by telecom operators. Before using the service, please check the latest information in your mobile operator's personal account or contact customer support for details.
To save data, you can change the video quality settings in streaming apps (YouTube, Netflix, IVI) directly on your TV, selecting a lower resolution. This will allow you to watch content for longer without losing data packets.
Why doesn't my LG TV detect the hotspot on my phone?
Most often, the problem lies in the frequency range. If your phone only broadcasts on the 5 GHz band and your TV only supports 2.4 GHz, they won't see each other. Switch your access point to "2.4 GHz" or "Maximum Compatibility" mode in your smartphone's settings.
Is it possible to play online games on the console via Wi-Fi from your phone?
Technically, this is possible, but not recommended. Mobile internet has a high ping (latency), which will make the game uncomfortable. Furthermore, connection stability can drop sharply if someone calls the number sharing the internet connection.
Do operators charge extra for Wi-Fi distribution?
Many modern plans include internet tethering, but often with speed or data caps. On older plans, this service may be paid for or blocked. Check the terms of your specific plan.
How to increase the range of a smartphone's hotspot?
Physically increasing the range is impossible, as it's limited by the phone's antenna power. However, placing the phone on an elevated surface, away from microwaves and other sources of interference, can improve signal quality within the TV's reception area.