News

Four years after exiting the smartphone market, LG is taking the final step in winding down its mobile division by announcing the closure of its update infrastructure. This move marks the definitive end of an era for the once-prominent smartphone manufacturer that created innovative devices like the dual-screen LG Wing and the V-series.The Final Countdown for LG Phone UpdatesLG has officially announced that it will shut down its mobile phone software upgrade servers on June 30, 2025. This closure affects the company's Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA) services, update center, and LG Bridge service—essentially cutting off all avenues for LG device owners to receive software updates. The announcement comes after LG had already fulfilled its promise to provide eligible devices with three years of updates following its exit from the smartphone business in April 2021.Important DatesLG exited smartphone business: April 2021Update servers closing: June 30, 2025Final Android OS update provided: Android 12 (approximately 4 years ago)LG's Post-Market Support RecordSince announcing its departure from the smartphone market, LG has demonstrated a commendable commitment to its existing customer base. The company delivered on its promise to provide Android 12 to eligible devices and continued issuing security patches for approximately three years beyond its market exit. This level of post-market support has allowed LG phone owners to maintain relatively secure and functional devices despite the company's absence from the smartphone landscape.What This Means for LG Phone OwnersFor those still using LG smartphones, the window for updating devices is quickly closing. After June 30, 2025, users will no longer be able to check for or install official updates through their device settings or via LG Bridge software. Security experts recommend that all LG phone owners install the latest available updates before the servers go offline to ensure their devices have the most recent security patches available.Security Implications and Upgrade ConsiderationsThe termination of update services raises important security considerations for those still using LG devices. Without ongoing security patches, phones will become increasingly vulnerable to newly discovered exploits and security threats. While the final updates should provide protection against known vulnerabilities, they won't address future security issues that emerge after the update servers close. This situation makes a compelling case for LG loyalists to consider transitioning to a new smartphone from a manufacturer that provides active support and regular security updates.How to Update Your LG PhoneIf you're still using an LG smartphone, you should check for and install any available updates before the June 30 deadline. To do this, navigate to Settings > System > System updates > Update LG software, and tap Check now for update. If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it. Alternatively, you can use the LG Bridge software on your computer to check for and install updates while this service remains operational.How to Update Your LG PhoneSettings > System > System updates > Update LG software > Check now for updateThe Legacy of LG's Mobile DivisionLG's departure from the smartphone market in 2021 represented a significant shift in the industry. The company was known for its willingness to experiment with unique form factors and features, including the aforementioned LG Wing with its swivel screen and the V20 with its secondary display. While brands like Nokia have managed to maintain a presence through licensing agreements with companies like HMD Global, LG chose a complete exit, selling its patents to competitors like Oppo and gradually winding down its support infrastructure.Services Being TerminatedMobile phone software upgrade (FOTA)Update centerLG Bridge serviceLooking ForwardAs the final chapter closes on LG's smartphone story, the announcement serves as a reminder of the evolving and competitive nature of the mobile industry. For consumers, particularly those still using LG devices, this development underscores the importance of manufacturer support in the smartphone ecosystem and may prompt consideration of which brands offer the most reliable long-term support for future purchases.