LG Electronics has announced a call for applications for its annual global webOS hackathon, with this year’s focus on artificial intelligence solutions and gaming services. Developers from all over the world are invited to participate and submit their applications for a chance to win a significant cash prize and the opportunity to present their ideas to LG executives in Seoul this September.
As a web-centric platform with an easy-to-use TV software development kit, WebOS enables developers to build third-party services and apps for millions of homes around the world that engage media, devices, security, networking, Smart TV features, and more. Through this hackathon, developers will have the opportunity to create and launch their app on LG TVs, directly reaching consumers with their offerings.
The webOS platform running on LG Smart TVs, including LG’s award-winning OLED TV, has been known for more than a decade as a user-friendly interface with easy navigation and customization to provide users with the premium entertainment experience expected of an LG device. Now, with an ever-growing ecosystem of global partners, the webOS platform is set to drive the next generation of service innovation.
In addition, LG is committed to expanding the webOS ecosystem by partnering with leaders in the gaming industry. This collaboration aims to offer customers a wide range of gaming services tailored to their preferences and interests, while expanding the gaming capabilities of the company’s exceptional OLED TVs. LG Smart TVs in global markets now offer a growing range of cloud gaming services and family-friendly games.
For more information about the hackathon, including a detailed schedule of events with terms and conditions, please visit https://weboshackathon.lge.com/
The hackathon started with a virtual webinar in early July. Participants will be able to create a gaming or lifestyle service using the web or Flutter framework, with the opportunity to earn extra points for using artificial intelligence. The application, script, and demo video must be submitted by August 26. The selected winning developers will then be invited to Seoul to pitch their ideas to LG’s top executives on September 27.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the three winners of the hackathon: a grand prize of USD 100,000 for the first place, USD 80,000 for the second place, and USD 50,000 for the third place. They will also receive technical support before the launch of their app and advertising opportunities on the device after the launch. The winning apps must be released in the LG Content Store by the end of June 2025.
“The LG webOS Hackathon 2024 aims to attract creators from around the world who are building lifestyle solutions,” said Chris Jo, Senior Vice President of Platform Business, LG Home Entertainment Company, “LG is committed to engaging with the gaming community on a global scale, working with developers to nurture the next generation of talent through the LG Developer Platform.