Home Entertainment That's Healthier for Consumers, Friendlier to the Planet

Home Entertainment That’s Healthier for Consumers, Friendlier to the Planet

An Aerial Photo of a forest with lakes representing the world’s continents and the phrase "Thinking Bigger To Help the Planet" overlapping.

In many places around the world, daily life is now spent primarily within the safer confines of home. One of the byproducts of this new homebound lifestyle is that there is more time to contemplate important topics, such as what can we do to make the world a better place? When we consider how to ensure a good future for the planet and its inhabitants, sustainability is likely one of the first words that comes to mind. But what exactly is enough sustainability and how do we get there?

Sustainability is commonly used to refer to a broad range of activities and initiatives geared towards maintaining the health of the environment and promoting a lifestyle more in balance with nature. However, it is not something that can be achieved through focusing on any one area, or through the efforts of any one person. Sustainability requires everyone to play their part and reassess – and in many cases, change – the way they live, work and play.

As a leading consumer electronics manufacturer, LG has long been a proponent of doing right by the consumer and the planet, an approach that can clearly be seen in its latest home entertainment products, including its acclaimed OLED TVs. Sustainability is factored into every stage of LG OLED TV’s lifecycle, from product development to manufacturing and usage and even disposal.

The company’s next-generation TVs use panels that have received Eco-Product recognition from Swiss-based SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA, a respected provider of testing, inspection and certification services based in Geneva.¹ SGS found LG OLED panels to be particularly strong in key evaluation categories covering the lowering of indoor air pollutants, the reduction in the use of hazardous substances, and recyclability.

LG OLED’s “eco” credentials are largely the result of its unique, self-lit display technology, which also enables the pixel-level dimming so crucial to the TVs’ superior picture quality. As it does not require a backlighting structure, LG OLED uses fewer components (mostly made from plastics, one of the major causes of environmental problems) than LED-LCD TV and emits less indoor air pollutants.

Indoor air quality also can be a concern about any electronic devices because of the potential health issues that volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) released into the air may occur when heat is generated. Total VOC emissions from an LG OLED panel is less than 50 percent of a typical LCD TV panel and unlike some high-end LCD products, LG OLED TV panels do not use any components containing hazardous substances such as cadmium and indium phosphide.

The panels also offer excellent resource efficiency and a comparatively-high recycling rate, all of which speaks to LG’s consistent and wide-ranging efforts to increase sustainability at all points of its products’ journey.

Not only is LG OLED TV better for the environment and indoor air quality, but protects consumers’ eyes as well. With people spending more time in front of their TVs in the social distancing era, instances of eye strain and fatigue have been on the rise. In a survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of Fight for Sight, more than a third of all respondents said that their eyesight had worsened in recent months.²

Where watching the TV is concerned, screen flickering and the emission of blue light are the main culprits for eye-related issues. Screen flickering is known to cause eye fatigue and headaches, and after prolonged exposure, even diminished vision, while blue light can lead to disruptions in sleep patterns, eye strain, dry eyes and feelings of exhaustion. With LG OLED, neither flickering nor blue light is a problem.

Thanks to their advanced OLED panels, LG OLED TVs have been found to be flicker-free and discomfort glare free by UL. They are also TÜV Rheinland Eyesafe^® certified for meeting low blue light requirements, emitting approximately 50 percent less blue light than similarly-sized premium LCD TV panels.

When it comes to immersive home entertainment experiences, sound quality is just as important as picture quality. LG OLED TVs are not the only “eco” products considering the planet and consumers. LG’s latest audio solutions that deliver dynamic, realistic sound, demonstrate the same focus on sustainability that can be seen in its next-gen TVs.

LG’s 2021 soundbars use recycled materials such as resin for the outer cases of many of the models while some models feature jersey fabric made from recycled PET bottles and have been certified as meeting the Global Recycled Standard.³In fact, many of LG’s soundbars have received UL 2809 Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for Recycled Content, an assurance to consumers that these products are indeed as environmentally responsible as advertised.⁴

In another measure to reduce environmental impact and waste, LG has adopted earth-minded packaging for the entire lineup. Using mainly recycled molded pulp, and greatly reduced quantities of EPS foam and plastic, the packaging has earning Eco-Product certification from SGS.⁵ As such, the soundbars have been assessed by SGS to have minimal environmental impact, emitting less air pollutants, containing few hazardous substances and providing a high degree of recyclability. What’s more, the packaging is designed in an “L” shape so more soundbars can fit in a typical delivery truck, lowering CO₂ emissions.

For home entertainment products that take both consumers’ and the environment’s health into consideration, LG continues to lead the way with a commitment as unwavering as its resolve to deliver the most immersive home entertainment experience possible.

# # #

¹According to SGS Eco-Product certification ECO/18/CEBEC/00003, OLED TV panels are recognized as Eco-Product based on data showing they reduce the use of hazardous substances (Cd and InP free), reduce indoor (VOC) emissions during use phase and are excellent in resource and recycling efficiency.
²Online poll of 2,021 respondents conducted by YouGov on behalf of Fight for Sight in November 2020.
³Models SP7Y, SP2W, G1.
⁴Models SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA, SP7Y, SPD7Y, SP2W.
⁵Models SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA, SP7Y.

LG SIGNATURE

The Essentials of Luxury in Tech: Innovation

With home still the place to be in early 2021, many consumers are investing in ways to make their living environments more comfortable, convenient, healthy and even a little bit more stylish. So much in fact that high-end home categories including premium household appliances, premium furniture and designer interiors are seeing across the board growth this year.

In a recent survey conducted by the Luxury Institute’s Global Luxury Expert Network (GLEN), 56 percent of respondents agreed that high-end home appliances will see a jump in sales throughout 2021, while 68 percent felt the same about the home furnishings market and 96 percent expressed confidence in the continuing growth of the health and wellness sector.¹

With more time spent at home, consumers are fueling a boom in the home furnishings market as they find more time to curate their own living spaces. It might be argued that this trend is long overdue since who wouldn’t agree that homes should be designed by the people who are going to spend the most time in them? And premium furniture brands seem more than happy to embrace innovation while still adhering to their brand heritage and design identity.

Pairing timeless beauty with exclusive technical and design innovations, Italian luxury furniture maker Molteni provides the customization options – and style – that discerning consumers demand. A great example of this is Molteni’s tailored wardrobe system which offers a range of material and design choices, including doors with 180-degree hinges, exposed aluminum frames inlaid with four-millimeter-thick crystals and handles made from pewter or clad in eco skin.²

Interior design can reflect current aesthetic trends and the technology as well as the individual tastes and lifestyles of a home’s occupants. Since the arrival of the pandemic, many people are choosing materials, fixtures and products for the home not only for reasons of lifestyle-fit, but because they create a more sanitary environment.

Several brands including Kohler and Marazzi have introduced solutions for a healthier, more hygienic living space to meet growing consumer demand. Kohler introduced a collection of touchless and voice-activated kitchen faucets compatible with Alexa and Google and toilets with hands-free flushing, to reduce the chances of spreading germs.³ Italian tile manufacturer Marazzi introduced antibacterial Carácter tiles with antibacterial properties.

LG is also seeing strong interest in its luxury lifestyle products under the LG SIGNATURE brand. A perfect example is LG SIGNATURE Wine Cellar with InstaView^TM technology. With wine sales up during the pandemic, this might just be the perfect home furnishing for vino lovers to store different wine varieties in precisely-controlled, customizable climate zones for their viewing pleasure without opening the door – which would disturb the consistent temperature – with a simple knock.

LG SIGNATURE honors the essence of each product it makes, elevating both functionality and aesthetics with state-of-the-art technology and distinctive, minimalist design. Cue LG SIGNATURE OLED R, the world’s first rollable TV that movie lovers will want to choose over the cinema. The TV’s 65-inch flexible OLED display delivers supreme picture quality and creates new design possibilities and spatial freedom by disappearing from view when not in use. LG’s revolutionary TV offers three compelling modes – Full View, Line View and Zero View – where the amount of visible screen changes to suit the content or the situation.

Empowered with advanced technology, stylish design, and hygiene-promoting features, the today’s luxury products represent innovation at its finest. The new wave of home-living solutions, like those from LG SIGNATURE, are making life infinitely more comfortable and elegant in the stay-at-home era.

# # #

¹Luxury Institute: Top-Tier Luxury Experts’ Forecast for the Luxury Industry in 2021, PR Newswire, Oct. 1, 2020.
²Designer Wardrobes Modern Contemporary Design | Molteni&C.
³KOHLER Expands Smart Home Collection at CES 2021, Emphasizes Well-being and Touchless Experiences for Kitchen and Bath, PR Newswire, Jan. 11, 2021.

The Evolution of LG Manufacturing in Vietnam

A front view of the LG Haiphong Campus in Vietnam

Since LG’s announcement to withdraw from the smartphone business, Vietnam’s production facility has become the topic of much speculation and rumors, given its role as LG’s largest smartphone production base. But the evolution and transformation of the Haiphong Campus is only just beginning with the future looking bright for Vietnam and LG’s local employees.

“Exiting smartphone production here is part of LG’s plan to restructure our core product portfolio,” said Jung Hai-jin, president of LG Electronics Vietnam. “The closing of LG’s mobile business will not significantly impact LG’s production, business activities or employees in Haiphong.”

Jung said LG will reorganize and expand its Vietnam production by focusing on manufacturing a wider range of products that are currently in high demand around the world, such as home appliances. LG plans to complete the transformation and reallocate all workers within this year. Additional investment plans will be announced once the transformation has been completed.

LG opened its Haiphong Campus in 2015 to produce smartphones, TVs as well as household appliances. Affiliates such as LG Innotek and LG Display have also setup in Haiphong, producing camera modules and displays. Currently there are more than 16,000 employees at Haiphong and if all goes according to plan, LG’s Vietnam manufacturing center should see strong growth in the years to come.

# # #

LG Ushers In Smart and Healthy Laundromats of the Future

A woman is putting laundry into dryer at Laundry Lounge.

Designed for Urban Dwellers Who Desire Clean
Clothes in a User-Friendly Environment

SEOUL, Apr. 20, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its first smart laundromat outside of its home country test market, signaling the future direction of the laundromat experience. LG’s Laundry Lounge is a digital, contactless public laundry facility located in Manila, Philippines designed to deliver a premium and convenient laundry experience for both owners and customers.

With only 30 percent of households in the Philippines owning washing machines and even less owning dryers, commercial laundromats are very popular. And even for those 30 percent, the machines tend to be small, meaning having to run multiple loads for large families. As a result, commercial laundromats are quite popular in the Philippines and considered a good business for investment, with as many as 1,500 new laundromats opening every year.

But the pandemic has made visiting laundromats a stressful experience for many.

With LG’s Laundry Lounge, owners can monitor their business remotely while customers can check washer/dryer availability and keep an eye on the progress of their clothes from any location. And because LG is a global leader in laundry solutions, users Laundry Lounge can feel confident knowing that their clothes are getting the best care possible in an LG washing machine or dryer.

The Laundry Lounge app makes the entire laundromat experience healthier and easier. Available for Android devices, LG’s app allows customers to make contactless payment, reserve a washer or dryer in advance and monitor their laundry’s progress from home or the car so there’s no need to wait in line. Laundry Lounge owners can also be part of the solution rather than the problem by running their business completely remotely. Revenues, machine breakdowns and any other issues are communicated via the app so there’s no need to be on site all the time.

LG’s commercial washing machine and dryer models employ many innovative features to deliver clean, gentle clothing care. Every washing machine incorporates effective hygiene technology that cleans the drum before, during, and after every cycle and LG’s commercial dryer employees high temperature air to sanitize clothes of germs and bacteria. For maximum hygiene, the Laundry Lounge includes LG Styler wardrobe management units which customers can use to steam clean clothes such as coats, suits and scarves that cannot be washed in water.

“The opening of LG’s first digital Laundry Lounge outside its test market demonstrates LG’s commitment to providing operators and customers with a smarter, safer way to turn laundry into big business,” said Don Kwack, senior vice president and head of LG Electronics Home Appliance and Air Solution Company’s overseas sales and marketing. “LG Laundry Lounge introduces both smart and convenient features to the laundromat environment, trends which we think urban consumers will really appreciate.”

# # #

New ProBeam Business Projectors From LG Offer Even Greater Convenience and Performance

People are having a business meeting with a projected screen at the front

Bright 6,000 ANSI Lumens Laser Projectors Deliver 4K UHD and WUXGA Images,
Smart Connection and More Convenient Features for Business

SEOUL, Apr. 16, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) has added two new outstanding offerings to its ProBeam lineup of business projectors. The new models – BU60PST and BF60PST – offer a number of enhancements and features that bring greater performance to the office or school. With great image quality and a plethora of useful features, these latest LG ProBeam models can help users better deliver important information and key messages in almost any setting, from the boardroom to the classroom.

LG’s premium projectors are ideal for use in diverse setting, including corporate, retail, hospitality or education. Introduced last year, LG’s ProBeam brand of projectors are designed to deliver premium-level projection solutions for professional environments. Both new projectors provide improved brightness and high resolution for crisp, clear images to everyone in the room. Model BU60PST delivers a 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) image at a maximum of 300 inches (measured diagonally), approximately four times the clarity of WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200), the resolution offered by many business projectors currently on the market.

Peak brightness of 6,000 ANSI lumens and contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1 translates to images that can be seen just as easily in daylight conditions as in a darkened environment.^* The laser light source in both ProBeam models is rated for 20,000 hours, approximately four times longer than projectors with conventional lamps. With support for HDR10, both BU60PST and BF60PST can reproduce stunning HDR content as it was meant to be seen, with exceptionally deep blacks and rich, dynamic, colors.

Like their predecessors (models BU50NST and BF50NST), LG’s latest ProBeam solutions are equipped with features that are perfect for business meetings and conferences. Users can connect either of the new projectors directly to a company or conference facility network via wired or wireless connection, eliminating the need for a laptop. Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel files can be opened directly from a USB device thanks to the built-in Office viewer. Screen sharing and screen mirroring make it especially easy to project content from devices running the Windows or Android operating system, giving users more options for displaying their presentations.

“As offices and schools reopen, we expect there will be a growing demand for upgraded presentation tools after the Zoom era,” said Jang Ik-hwan, senior vice president and head of the IT business unit of LG Electronics Business Solutions Company. “Designed specifically for business and education environments, LG ProBeam projectors are adaptable solutions that can facilitate better communication and enhance productivity.”

LG’s new 2021 ProBeam models will be available starting in the second quarter in North America, followed by key markets in Europe and Asia.

Key Specifications:

		BU60PST	BF60PST
Projection System		DLP	DLP
Native Resolution		4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160)	WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200)
HDR		HDR10	HDR10
Light Source Type		Laser (LD + P/W)	Laser (LD + P/W)
Light Source Life Time (High Brightness)		20,000 hours	20,000 hours
Brightness		6,000 ANSI Lumens	6,000 ANSI Lumens
Contrast Ratio (Full On / Full Off)		3,000,000:1	3,000,000:1
Noise (Typical)	High / Mid / Low	33 / 30 / 29 dB(A)	33 / 30 / 29 dB(A)
Projection Lens	Lens Shift	Horizontal ± 20%, Vertical ± 50%	Horizontal ± 20%, Vertical ± 50%
	Zoom	x 1.6	x 1.6
	Screen Size	40-300 inches	40- 300 inches
	Throw Ratio	1.30 – 2.08	1.30 – 2.08
Sound	Speaker Output	5W + 5W Stereo	5W + 5W Stereo
Sound	Bluetooth	Yes	Yes
Gross Size (W x D x H)		580 x 441 x 273 mm	580 x 441 x 273 mm
Net Weight		9.7 kg	9.2 kg
HDMI		2	2
USB Type-A		2 (USB 2.0)	2 (USB 2.0)
Platform		webOS 4.5	webOS 4.5
DICOM		O	O
HDBaseT		O	O
RS-232		O	O

# # #

^*Brightness, or lumens, is based on the perceived brightness equivalent to the brightness of lamp projector.

LG Racks Up 31 Red Dot Design Awards

LG's collection of Red Dot Award-winning home appliances including its air conditioner, Styler, refrigerator and more are displayed in a modern, spacious living room to give the space a greater sense of style.

Recognized Again for Excellence in Product Design by Industry Experts

SEOUL, Apr. 14, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) has once again been recognized for its strength in consumer and industrial design, earning an impressive 31 product design accolades at this year’s Red Dot Award, one of the design industry’s top honors. Introduced at CES 2021, LG’s designer appliances was honored with 5 awards which includes InstaView^® Door-in-Door^® refrigerator, Fridge and Freezer pair, CordZero stick vacuum, air conditioner and Styler.

Among the most meaningful is the honor bestowed upon LG designer appliances in the Materials and Surfaces category for their implementation of color, material and finish (CMF). Introduced as a bold reimagining of conventional appliances, LG’s designer appliances is a melding of technologically advanced home appliances with premium materials that can be customized to meet the specifications of each customer. Materials such as stainless steel, glass, metal and FENIX – an innovative material with advanced coating technology developed by Arpa Industriale – are utilized to illuminate the refinement of each product in the collection.

Other honors include recognition for LG WashTower™, a single-unit, vertical laundry solution that frees up more floor space while handling ultra-large loads, for exceptional design. Beyond home appliances, a number of LG’s computer products such as UltraGear™ gaming monitor and LG gram were commended for their advanced, sleek designs that exemplified the products’ core values.

The Red Dot Design Award is one of the three most prestigious professional design competitions in the world and the distinctive mark has become established internationally as one of the most sought-after seals of quality for exceptional design. This year some 7,800 products were submitted for the jury’s consideration.

“As a brand that strives to deliver quality products with exceptional design, it is always a great honor to receive recognition from Red Dot,” Lee Chul-bae, head of LG Electronics’ Corporate Design Management Center. “LG is devoted to meeting consumers’ desire to enhance the quality of space with high-quality products that also look good and we will continue to pursue innovative designs that deliver on these expectations.”

# # #

Small Changes, Big Planet

A photo showing half the landscape as a landfill and the other half as a beautiful meadow

The foundation of the fast-growing field of behavioral economics is that small changes lead to big results. In the Harvard Business Review, professors John Beshears and Francesca Gina write that “changes need not involve a lot of time and effort to implement; in fact, very simple adjustments can produce powerful benefits for individuals and organizations.”¹

To encourage consumers to make small changes to achieve a common goal, LG a sustainability-focused online campaign #CareForWhatYouWear which has to date achieved 100 million cumulative views on LG Electronics’ YouTube channels over the globe including United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and so on.

The campaign reflects LG’s ESG philosophy and leverages the company’s global presence to deliver a message of hope and sustainability to consumers world over. The video that introduces the campaign shows the significant environmental impact of disposable fashion and the growing volume of clothing being thrown away every year after very little use – 5.8 million tons in Europe alone.²

Most importantly, the video highlights how consumers can play a part in improving the situation by taking better care of the clothes in their care, recycling old garments instead of discarding them and passing on unwanted items to others who will make use of them.

LG’s range of laundry solutions, including washing machines, dryers and the Styler, can extend the lifespan of garments, cleaning and refreshing with thorough yet gentle care that minimizes fabric damage.³ The #CareForWhatYouWear campaign invites consumers to join the sustainable clothing movement and share how they keep their favorite items of clothing looking great season after season.

As part of this campaign, LG is also collaborating with NET-A-PORTER, a leading online luxury fashion retailer, to offer a limited-edition line of stylish, environmentally-responsible clothing. Made from highly durable, machine washable materials, the collection was designed to be easily cared for at home without the need for dry cleaning’s harmful chemicals.

# # #

¹ https://hbr.org/2014/09/to-change-employee-or-customer-behavior-start-small#
² “Textiles and the environment in a circular economy.” European Environment Agency, 2019.
³ Washing machine: AI DD™ provides 18 percent more fabric protection to help extend the lifespan of clothing. Tested by Intertek in March 2019 comparing Cotton cycle with 2kg of underwear to LG’s conventional Cotton cycle (F4V9RWP2W vs. FC1450S2W). AI DD available for three cycles (Cotton, Mixed Fabric and Easy Care). Using LG’s low temperature heat pump technology, LG DUAL Inverter Heat Pump™ Dryer and Styler help protect clothes from damage. Results may differ depending on load composition and environmental factors.

Making Everyday Home Products More Accessible

An illustration of people with different disabilities conveniently using appliances through LG's innovative technology.

Most everyone agrees that technology and innovation have made our lives immensely easier and more productive. Two decades ago, working and studying from home was an entirely different experience without broadband, smartphones or Zoom. But there has been a need to make such technological innovation more accessible to everyone.

As part of the company’s new ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) initiatives covering human rights, LG is committing to making its home appliances more accessible to the physically challenged. The new vertical laundry solution, WashTower, will be the first appliance from LG to include audio instructions and braille overlays. LG will increase the number of more accessible home appliance products and markets over the course of the year, starting with the enhanced WashTower and CordZero M9 robot vacuum cleaner.

Voice instructions in LG WashTower and CordZero M9 vacuum will make it easier for customers with visual impairment to access the appliance’s many advanced features via audio prompts alone. Additional tones will be implemented throughout the washing machine so there is clear feedback whenever a button is pressed to better guide the user in selecting the correct function and options.

Navigating LG WashTower’s Center Control for visually impaired customers will be infinitely more convenient with the use of braille overlays. Accessibility enhancements for more LG products including robot vacuums, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, refrigerators and air conditioners are in the works.

With a greater commitment toward good ESG management, LG is putting in place the necessary components to help ensure a better society for all and a better life for every customer. This effort has not gone unnoticed by LG’s long-time accessibility partner in the United States, the National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM), who is also a member of the LG Accessibility Advisory Council.

“LG’s U.S. accessibility council activities are particularly noteworthy; global teams from LG come together to host nearly a dozen leading U.S. accessibility experts and disability advocacy organization leaders,” said Donna Danielewski of NCAM. “They provide candid and critical input and feedback on LG’s latest hardware, software, and planned activities – while also receiving updates about LG’s progress along its accessibility journey. Our team in NCAM is always grateful for the opportunity to learn from the council participants (as well as representatives from all levels of LG) while also bringing our own expertise to the table.”

# # #

LG Announces “Three Year Pledge” for OS Updates

LG Reassures Current and Future Customers
Following Announcement to Withdraw from Mobile Industry

SEOUL, Apr. 8, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) announced today that all premium LG smartphones currently in use will receive up to three iterations of Android operating system updates from the year of purchase.

This promise comes on the heels of the announcement earlier this week that LG will be exiting the mobile business by the end of July. The three OS update guarantee applies to LG premium phones released in 2019 and later (G series, V series, VELVET, Wing) while certain 2020 models such as LG Stylo and K series will receive two OS updates.^*

LG will continue to manufacture phones through the second quarter to meet contractual obligations to carriers and partners. This means customers can still purchase LG mobile phones currently in inventory and service support and security software updates will continue to be provided for a period of time for certain devices. Customers should contact their local LG customer service center for additional details.

# # #

* Future updates will depend on Google’s distribution schedule as well as other factors such as device performance and compatibility.

LG Introduces More Efficient and Sustainable Energy Solution With NeON H

LG NeON H solar panel installed on the top of a residential building

Advanced Solar Panels Featuring N-type Half-cut Cells
Deliver Industry-leading Power Output and Durability

SEOUL, Apr. 7, 2021 — The newest, advanced solar panel from LG Electronics (LG), featuring the company’s innovative N-type half-cut cells, delivers high power output and comes backed by a 25-year warranty. The LG NeON H solar panel is ideal for both residential and commercial applications as it offers carbon-free energy and long-lasting reliability in a package that delivers enhanced performance compared to the previous model.

With the majority of solar panels on the market today employing positive-type cells, LG NeON H utilizes sophisticated negative N-type cells with a temperature coefficient of -.33 percent per degree Celsius.¹ The bifacial cell structure of N-type cells also enables the cells to absorb sunlight from both the front and rear sides. As a result, the panel provides outstanding output, generating maximum 390W from its 120 cells while simultaneously minimizing power loss.² The highly durable energy solution can withstand harsh weather conditions and is also resistant to light-induced degradation (LID), the loss of performance from exposure to sunlight in the initial hours after installation.³

LG is the world’s first manufacturer to operate in-house solar testing facilities certified by two major international inspection and certification bodies – UL and TÜV Rheinland. Meeting industry-standard testing criteria, LG NeON H panels are guaranteed to operate at 90.6 percent of their original performance even after 25 years of continuous use.⁴

“Our new NeON H solar panel is the most reliable and efficient renewable energy solution that LG has ever created,” said Kevin Kim, vice president and head of the energy business unit of LG Electronics Business Solutions Company. “As one of only a handful of manufacturers with the confidence to offer a quarter-century warranty on its solar products, LG is continuing its commitment to providing efficient, effective solutions that stand the test of time.”

# # #

¹ Temperature coefficient verified based on internal accelerated test data.
² Certified by CSA Group, January 2021.
³Initial performance verified based on internal accelerated test data.
⁴25-year performance verified based on internal accelerated test data. Actual performance may vary depending on the environment or conditions of use.

LG Releases Preliminary Earnings for First-Quarter 2021

SEOUL, Apr. 7, 2021 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today announced its preliminary earnings results for the first quarter of 2021.

LG reported tentative consolidated revenues of KRW 18.8 trillion in the first quarter of 2021 with an operating profit of KRW 1.5 trillion. Revenue and operating profit increased 27.7 percent and 39.2 percent, respectively, from the same quarter the previous year.

Both quarterly revenue and operating profit are the highest in the company’s history.

These figures are the tentative consolidated earnings based on K-IFRS provided as a service to investors prior to LG Electronics’ final earnings results including net profit. Details regarding each division will be announced officially later this month.

# # #

LG’s 2021 Soundbars Offer Premium Audio and AI Features With Sustainable Designs

LG Soundbar sitting on a wooden cabinet below the wall-mounted LG TV to complement the TV's sound while blending effortlessly into the earthy room décor

With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, New Soundbars Not Only
Sound Great, They’re Designed with the Environment in Mind

SEOUL, Apr. 6, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) is commencing the worldwide rollout of the 2021 LG Soundbar lineup, with new models delivering a more premium audio experience, versatility and convenient control while upping the ante with eco-consciousness designs and packaging. The new lineup offers high-quality audio, easy connectivity, smart functionality and stylish aesthetics with a modern look that are designed to complement LG’s stunning TVs and works well with any décor.

New for this year, the company’s soundbars allow users to take advantage of LG TV’s AI Sound Pro feature. Audio from the TV is played through the soundbar via TV Sound Mode Share, delivering the superior audio processing power of AI Sound Pro on the more capable speakers of the new soundbars. LG’s soundbars now offer all of the same sound modes as its latest TVs, allowing users to easily switch between the soundbar and the TV using the TV remote.

The 2021 lineup is compatible with multiple voice assistants including Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and Siri.¹ Now it’s easier than ever to control devices and play one’s favorite music from compatible device and services. And with support for Apple AirPlay 2, customers can stream, control, and share their favorite music and other content directly from their iPhone, iPad or Mac.

When it comes to performance, LG’s 2021 soundbars inherit all the strengths of their predecessors with many of the new models featuring Meridian Audio tuning and Meridian technology, when in Music Mode for an exceptionally authentic listening experience. A new feature, Meridian Horizon technology, is the result of LG’s long-term partnership with Meridian Audio.² This innovation up-mixes two channel stereo content into immersive, multichannel audio to provide audiences with a truly immersive listening experience regardless of their position or location in the room.

All the 2021 soundbars from LG support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for dynamic three-dimensional audio. With Dolby Vision compatibility via 4K pass-through, the new models ensure the level of picture and sound quality needed for genuinely cinematic home viewing. LG’s soundbars also combine up-firing front height channels with wireless rear up-firing height channels to envelop users in lush, textured sound.

Many of the new models are Hi-Res Audio certified, insuring lossless playback at 24bit/96kHz with all the vibrancy and nuance of the original studio recording. Upgraded user convenience and easy connectivity are built into the 2021 LG Soundbar lineup with HDMI eARC support enabling a higher bitrate, high resolution content and uncompressed Dolby Atmos^® audio with just one cable, while USB playback and Bluetooth streaming offer more convenient ways for users to enjoy their favorite audio content on the latest models.

LG’s sophisticated AI features further elevate the user experience. AI Room Calibration offers optimal sound in any environment, using spatial awareness technology to measure a room’s dimensions then customizing the soundbar’s audio settings in accordance with the specific characteristics of the space. AI Sound Pro uses adaptive sound control to automatically adjust frequency range and sound field extension, depending on which genre of content the user is watching: news, music or cinema.

While the importance of home entertainment has grown in the era of social distancing, so has concern for the environment and consumer support for companies and products that demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability. From production processes to the materials and packaging used, LG’s latest soundbars are designed with the health of the planet in mind.

In its effort toward a sustainable future, LG is taking a more eco-minded approach to product development, packaging and shipping of its 2021 soundbars, designing the first audio products in the industry to receive SGS Eco-Product certification. For many soundbar model cases LG replaced materials used in previous models with recycled materials, one model featuring jersey fabric made of recycled PET bottles.³ Certified as Global Recycled Standard-compliant and UL environmental claim validated, each SP7Y soundbar means almost seven fewer plastic bottles occupying landfills.

To reduce environmental impact and waste even further, LG adopted friendlier packaging for its entire soundbar lineup. Using mainly recycled molded pulp and far less EPS foam and plastic, the packaging has earning Eco-Product certification from Societe Generale de Surveillance (SGS), a respected provider of testing, inspection and certification services based in Geneva, Switzerland.⁴ To receive this designation, the soundbars were deemed by SGS to have minimal environmental impact as they emit less air pollutants, contain few hazardous substances and provide a high degree of recyclability. What’s more, the packaging is designed in an “L” shape so more units can fit in fewer trucks, which means lower CO₂ emissions, a crucial part of achieving environmental sustainability.

New LG Soundbar models including SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA, SP7Y and SPD7Y will begin rolling out starting this month in key markets in Europe and North America, with additional models coming later this year.

Specifications:

	FEATURES	SP11RA	SP9YA	SP8YA	SP7Y	SPD7Y
Sound	Total wattage	770W	520W	440W	440W	380W
	Channels	7.1.4	5.1.2	3.1.2	5.1	3.1.2
	Rear Speakers	Rear & Up-Firing	Optional (SPK8)	Optional (SPK8)	Optional (SPK8)	Optional (SPK8)
	Dolby Atmos/ DTS:X	Y	Y	Y	DTS:X Virtual	Y
	Meridian Horizon Technology Audio and Meridian Audio (Music Mode)	Y	Y	Y	Y	Y
	Hi-Resolution Audio	Y	Y	Y	Y	Y
	AI Room Calibration	Y	Y	Y	–	–
	AI Sound Pro	Y	Y	Y	Y	Y
Convenience	eARC	Y	Y	Y	ARC	Y
	4K Pass-Through with Dolby Vision Support	Y	Y	Y	–	Y
	Works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, AirPlay 2	Y	Y	Y	–	–
	LG TV Synergy TV Sound Mode Share, Soundbar Mode Control	Y	Y	Y	Y	Y
Eco	Eco-Product (SGS)	Y	Y	Y	Y	–
Eco	UL ECV	Y	Y	Y	Y	Y

# # #

¹ Models SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA are compatible with multiple voice assistants.
² Models SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA, SP7Y, SPD7Y feature Meridian Horizon.
³Model SP7Y uses jersey fabric made from PET bottles.
⁴Models SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA, SP7Y are certified as Eco-Product by SGS.

LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide

Stepping Away from Phone Manufacturing and Sales Enables Company
to Focus on Growth Sectors Including EVs, IoT and B2B Solutions

SEOUL, Apr. 5, 2021 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) announced that it is closing its mobile business unit. The decision was approved by its board of directors earlier today.

LG’s strategic decision to exit the incredibly competitive mobile phone sector will enable the company to focus resources in growth areas such as electric vehicle components, connected devices, smart homes, robotics, artificial intelligence and business-to-business solutions, as well as platforms and services.

LG will provide service support and software updates for customers of existing mobile products for a period of time which will vary by region. LG will work collaboratively with suppliers and business partners throughout the closure of the mobile phone business. Details related to employment will be determined at the local level.

Moving forward, LG will continue to leverage its mobile expertise and develop mobility-related technologies such as 6G to help further strengthen competitiveness in other business areas. Core technologies developed during the two decades of LG’s mobile business operations will also be retained and applied to existing and future products.

The wind down of the mobile phone business is expected to be completed by July 31 although inventory of some existing models may still be available after that.

# # #

Reinventing the Washing Machine

LG Styler effortlessly blending into a modern dressing room with smart clothes hanging up on either side

If necessity is the mother of invention, then innovation could be viewed as the father of the patent. As of the end of 2020, LG Electronics was one of the world’s top patent holders with more than 87,000 patents to its name, many of them related to steam technology found throughout the company’s lineup of premium household appliances. Two successful products that rely on steam for their effectiveness are LG Styler and LG TWINWash™, appliances that in themselves are the result of years of research, development and tinkering.

In fact, the Styler debuted in 2011, nine years after the idea of the steam-based wardrobe management product was given the green light to begin development. Without a patent system to protect the hundreds of thousands of hours and hundreds of millions of dollars invested to develop products like LG Styler, there would be little incentive for companies to innovate.

In fact, the Styler is a compilation of more than 180 LG patents covering features such as the Moving Hanger to shake bacteria and allergens^* out of suits and dresses to the tune of 200 vibrations per minute and Gentle Dry to draw moisture out of clothes without shrinking or damaging delicate fabrics. The patented TrueSteam™ in conjunction with Pants Crease Care deliver wrinkle-free trousers with sharp creases, all without an ironing board.

While the innovation inherent to LG Styler launched a whole new category in home appliances, LG TWINWash was a game changer in its own way. The engineers and designers behind LG TWINWash took a look at a mature product that hadn’t seen much innovation in decades and got to work on solving the age-old problem. With TWINWash, not only can one launder a pair of pants and some socks without feeling guilty about wasting water and electricity, frazzled parents can wash heavily soiled baby clothes separately from adult clothes… simultaneously. One of the patented core technologies that made TWINWash possible is LG’s Direct Drive™, which could deliver more reliable, more effective and quicker results than competing technologies.

One of the many people responsible for LG’s innovation leadership is Dong-won Kim, Ph.D. Laboratory Leader of Living Appliance R&D Lab at LG who is responsible for over 1,000 patents during his 25 years as a researcher at LG. In 2019 he was honored with the Invention King of the Year Award by the Korean Intellectual Property Office.

“Fundamentally, a home appliance should be able to minimize the effort needed to complete one or more household chores but it has to be convenient and easy to use as well,” Kim explained.” When developing a new product, it is essential to constantly ask oneself, ‘Is this bringing value to the customer?’ At LG, we believe this should be the basis for all good product design.”

Kim gets his ideas for his inventions from listening to LG customers and everyday people. “LG Styler came from a conversation I had with the wife of a colleague who told me she removed wrinkles from clothes by hanging them in a steam-filled bathroom,” Kim recalled. “The Styler takes this basic concept and expands on it with a combination of user-friendly design and a number of other unique technologies.”

“The idea for LG TWINWash came after a survey we conducted in 2007 in which 60 percent of the responders said that they wished their washing machines could wash separate loads at the same time,” Kim said. “I’m sure other washing machine makers had heard this complaint before but a two-drum washing machine is no simple matter, which may explain why TWINWash still has no equal even after six years.”

Like all of LG’s products, LG TWINWash and Styler are products based on innovation and creativity fueled by the need to make consumers’ lives more convenient. But innovating can be a laborious and expensive process and this is where the patent system can help drive technological advancement. For inventors like Kim Dong-won, the assurance that his intellectual property will be protected is incentive to keep creating and improving consumers’ lives.

# # #

^* Certified by the British Allergy Foundation (BAF) for reducing 99.9 percent of house dust mite allergens and Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Certified as an asthma and allergy friendly® appliance by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

LG Newsroom