LG's 2018 TV lineup to come with Google Assistant, advanced processor and more

Looks like LG is all set to announce and showcase several of its new products at CES 2018. While we have already heard audio products to be launched at CES now the company has announced that it will raise the home entertainment experience to another level with the introduction of ThinQ artificial intelligence (AI) and an advanced image processor in its newest OLED and SUPER UHD TVs during the same event.

Just yesterday we heard about LG's first 88-inch 8K OLED TV and now the company has formally announced its full TV line and the new technology behind it for the new year. This comes just a few days ahead of CES 2018. As such the lineup will include the new 88-inch 8K OLED TV and the "Wallpaper" OLED will also make its return. LG will have three other OLED models and a full suite of LG Super UHD LED televisions.

Apart from these categories, what's interesting about the new TVs is that this year they will be getting Google Assistant support. This is quite an interesting feature. Just to recall, usually, LG offered its TVs with a webOS-based operating system that included the company's own voice assistant. Now it looks like the company is progressing forward and at the same time differentiating itself from the rest by including Google Assistant on its OLED and "Super UHD" LCD displays. This initiative will fall under its "ThinQ" artificial intelligence branding (shared by LG's recently announced Google-powered smart speaker).

So basically with LG's integrated assistant technology users will be able to use the ThinQ AI for TV-specific tasks, like asking to "search for the soundtrack of this movie" or "turn off the TV when this program is over." It can also be used in some countries with Google Assistant on top for controlling smart home devices or accessing anything else Google Assistant can do.

"With AI functionality embedded in their TVs, LG customers can speak directly into the remote control to enjoy all the convenient features of today's advanced voice assistant technology. LG's ThinQ TVs also function as smart home hubs, offering access to other smart home products such as robotic vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, air purifiers, smart lights, smart speakers and many other devices that can connect to the TV via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth," the company has said in its press note.

Alongside its updated ThinQ AI initiatives, LG is also introducing a new improved image processor on its upcoming TVs. Dubbed as the Alpha 9, the company claims that it will allow for improved noise reduction and better color performance, and offer support for 120 fps high frame rate (HFR) content. LG's newest α (Alpha) 9 intelligent processor is also said to provide true-to-life images with incredibly rich colors, sharpness, and depth for more realism.

"As a result of the new image processor, 2018 LG OLED TVs can display any content at maximum quality for a truly spectacular viewing experience," the company noted.

"LG is continually seeking to innovate in home entertainment and LG ThinQ along with the α (Alpha) 9 processor will deliver a TV viewing experience that is unrivaled in the industry," said Brian Kwon, president of LG's Home Entertainment Company. "At LG, our interest is in improving user lifestyles and convenience, which our 2018 TVs amply deliver."