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LG owners woke up to an unwanted addition on their smart TV home screens: Microsoft’s Copilot suddenly appeared after a recent webOS update, and many found no straightforward way to remove it. The unexpected change sparked anger online and reignited debate over preinstalled AI features on consumer devices.
What changed on LG TVs after the webOS update
Several LG models received a system update that placed Microsoft Copilot directly on the TV home screen.
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- The Copilot tile showed up automatically for users who installed the update.
- Reports indicate the tile is pinned and cannot be deleted through normal app settings.
- LG support notes some system or preinstalled apps are only removable by a factory reset.
That limitation means most owners must either hide the app or reset the TV completely to get rid of Copilot. Some users also suggested disconnecting the television from the internet to prevent it from reinstalling.
User outcry on Reddit and wider frustration with forced AI
Reddit threads quickly filled with complaints from people who felt the update crossed a line. Posters shared screenshots and first‑hand accounts of Copilot appearing without consent.
- Many described annoyance more than technical problems. The main gripe: lack of choice.
- Some compared LG’s move to Samsung, which has preinstalled its own AI features on some TV models.
- Other posts framed the change as part of a larger push by tech firms to embed AI into all devices.
Voices ranged from mild irritation to outright hostility toward the companies involved. A number of users vowed to keep their TVs offline to avoid future forced installations.
How to hide or remove Copilot from your LG TV
If your TV got the Copilot tile and you want it gone, try these steps.
- Open the home screen app management menu and attempt to hide the Copilot tile.
- Check Settings → Apps: some preinstalled items can only be hidden, not deleted.
- Perform a factory reset if you need a full removal, then block internet access to prevent reinstallation.
- Contact LG support for guidance specific to your model.
Note: Factory resets erase personal settings. Back up preferences and note account logins first.
Why consumers are worried: privacy, control, and monetization
Beyond irritation, users raise two core concerns.
- Control: People expect choice over which apps appear and run on their devices.
- Monetization and data: Many suspect AI features are being pushed to increase usage and revenue, or to collect more data.
That mix of distrust and commercial motives fuels resistance when companies add features without a clear opt‑out path.
Practical tips for avoiding unwanted preinstalled features
- Turn off automatic updates if your TV model allows it.
- Keep devices offline until you confirm what an update includes.
- Follow tech forums or subreddits for early reports about updates.
- When buying future devices, check vendor policies on preinstalled apps and removability.
