LG Smart TV enable Developer Mode to Ad-Free YouTube

How to enable Developer mode and also add "Ads Free YouTube" App.

Here is a guide that enable Developer Mode on your LG webOS TV and install an ad-free YouTube application.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

If you prefer written instructions, follow this comprehensive guide. The process involves enabling Developer Mode on your TV and then using a computer on the same network to install the new application.

Part 1: Enable Developer Mode on Your LG TV

First, you need to activate Developer Mode to allow the installation of third-party apps.

1. Create an LG Developer Account: If you don't have one, go to the LG Developer website, sign in with your regular LG account, and agree to the additional terms to enable it as a developer account. If you don't have an LG account, create a new one. Link to LG Developer Account : https://gr.lgaccount.com
2. Install the Developer Mode App: On your LG TV, go to the LG Content Store (or "Apps"), search for the "Developer Mode" app, and install it.
3. Activate Developer Mode:
   • Launch the "Developer Mode" app on your TV.
   • Log in with your LG Developer account credentials.
   • Turn the Dev Mode Status to ON.
   • On the same screen, turn the Key Server option to ON.
   • The TV will prompt you to reboot. After it restarts, Developer Mode will be active.
4. Get Connection Details: Re-open the Developer Mode app. Note the IP Address and Passphrase displayed. You will need these to connect your computer to the TV.

Part 2: Install the Ad-Free YouTube App

Now, you will use your computer to remove the official YouTube app and install the modified version.

1. Uninstall Official YouTube App: Before proceeding, you must uninstall the official YouTube app from your LG TV. This is a necessary prerequisite.
2. Download webOS Dev Manager: On your computer, download and install the webOS Dev Manager application. This tool allows you to manage apps on your TV.  Link to download : https://github.com/webosbrew/dev-manager-desktop/releases
3. Connect to Your TV:
   • Ensure your computer is on the same Wi-Fi or wired network as your TV.
   • Open webOS Dev Manager and click "Add Device".
   • Enter the IP Address and Passphrase you noted from your TV's Developer Mode app to establish a connection.
4. Install Homebrew Channel: Once connected, it is highly recommended to first install the Homebrew Channel. This app acts as an alternative app store for webOS and simplifies finding and installing third-party apps.
   • In the webOS Dev Manager, go to the "Apps" tab and find "Homebrew Channel" in the list of available apps.
   • Click to install it on your TV.
5. Install the Ad-Free YouTube App:
   • After installing the Homebrew Channel, open it on your TV.
   • Search for "YouTube AdFree" (the file is often named youtube.leanback.v4) and install it through the Homebrew interface.
   • Alternatively, you can install the "YouTube AdFree" app directly from the webOS Dev Manager's app list.

After these steps, you will have an ad-free version of YouTube on your LG Smart TV. The configuration menu for this app, which includes SponsorBlock settings, can typically be accessed by pressing the green button on your remote.

Important Note: The Developer Mode session on LG TVs has a limited duration (e.g., 999 hours). You may need to periodically open the Developer Mode app and click "Extend" to renew the session and keep your sideloaded apps working.