ESPN+ delivers all kinds of sporting content to millions of people around the world.
But if you own an LG TV, you’ll have trouble getting access to the app.
Here’s the reason why, along with a few solutions.
LG partners with different streaming services to develop apps for their TVs. Unfortunately, they do not yet have an agreement with ESPN to deliver an ESPN app. That said, there are plenty of workarounds.
1. Use the LG TV Browser
LG TVs come with a built-in web browser.
To access it, click on the little globe icon at the bottom of the screen.
Click on the address bar and an onscreen keyboard will appear.
Using the keyboard, type in the following web address: https://www.espn.com/watch/.
Enter your ESPN+ login information, and you’ll be able to start watching.
The onscreen keyboard is a bit clunky, which makes this method a bit of a headache (you can try plugging in a USB keyboard to speed things up).
However, using your TV’s web browser is the only way to access ESPN+ without using any external devices.
2. Use a Streaming Device
Many third-party streaming devices offer the ESPN app.
Here are a few options you should consider.
Roku Streaming Stick
The Roku streaming stick is a small device the size of an oversized USB thumb drive.
It has an HDMI plug on the tip, and you insert it into your TV’s HDMI port.
Using the Roku remote, you can navigate the menu and install hundreds of apps, including the ESPN app.
Amazon Firestick
The Amazon Fire Stick is similar to a Roku.
You plug it into your HDMI port and install whatever apps you like.
I should point out that the Roku and Firestick don’t come with any subscriptions.
You pay a flat fee for the device, and that’s it.
If someone tries to charge you a subscription fee for one of these sticks, they’re scamming you.
Google Chromecast
The Google Chromecast is an oval-shaped device with a little USB pigtail.
It plugs into your TV’s USB port instead of the HDMI port.
It also runs the Android operating system, so you can run any Android app, including ESPN+.
Apple TV
The Apple TV app is available on certain LG televisions, on models produced in 2018 and later.
This is a subscription service with its own streaming content.
However, you can use Apple TV to access other services such as ESPN+.
3. Access ESPN With a Gaming Console
If you have an Xbox or PlayStation console, you already have everything you need to access the ESPN app.
Fire up your console and navigate to the app store.
Search for “ESPN+” and install the app.
The first time you open it, it will prompt you to enter your login information.
After that, you’ll always be logged in as soon as you open the app.
Unfortunately, ESPN+ is not available on the Nintendo Switch.
4. Screen Mirror Your Smart Phone or Laptop
Most LG TVs support screen mirroring from a laptop or smartphone.
Since 2019, they’ve even supported Apple’s AirPlay 2 system.
The process will work differently depending on your device.
Screen Mirror With a Smart Phone
If you’re using an iPhone, start by connecting your phone to the same WiFi network as your TV.
Next, open the ESPN app and load the video you want to watch.
Look for the AirPlay icon on the screen.
This icon looks like a TV with a little triangle at the bottom.
Tap it, and you’ll see a list of TVs.
Provided your TV is compatible, you’ll be able to tap it.
At that point, your video will start streaming to the TV.
You even navigate around the app and play other videos, or even watch live events.
When you’re done, tap the AirPlay icon again and select your iPhone or iPad from the list.
Most Android phones have a similar function, with a “Cast” button instead of Apple AirPlay.
There are many Android versions, so your mileage may vary.
Screen Mirror With a Laptop
Casting from your Windows 10 PC is as easy as casting from your smartphone.
Open your Start menu and click the little gear icon to access the settings menu.
From there, select “System.”
Scroll down to where it says “Multiple Displays,” and click “Connect to a wireless display.”
This will open a grey panel on the right side of the screen, with a list of smart TVs and monitors.
Provided your LG TV is on the same network as your PC, you should see it here.
Select your TV, and it will begin mirroring your desktop display.
If you want to change the display mode, click “Change projection mode.”
You can click “Extend” to use your TV as a second monitor, or “Second screen” to turn off your computer’s main display.
In Summary
While there’s no official ESPN+ app for LG TVs, there are plenty of alternative methods.
You can use the browser, connect a streaming stick, or mirror your smartphone or laptop.
You can even watch your favorite sporting events on your gaming console.
With a little creativity, you can access the ESPN app on any TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will LG support ESPN?
Neither LG nor ESPN has made any official announcement about app availability on LG televisions.
At a glance, it would seem to be a good deal for both parties.
That said, there may be legitimate business reasons for LG or ESPN not to want an app.
App development costs money, and maybe ESPN has decided that the costs aren’t worth it to reach LG’s customer base.
Can I download the ESPN app on my LG TV?
No, you can’t.
LG TVs run a proprietary operating system, and ESPN has not built an app for it.
You’ll need to cast your app from another device or find another workaround.
