LG Unveils Open API Platform for Smart Home Integration

Seoul, South Korea—LG Electronics announced on Tuesday that it has fully opened its ThinQ smart home platform's Application Programming Interface (API) to external developers through a newly launched developer website. 

This will enable broader integration with LG's AI-enabled home appliances.

The South Korean electronics manufacturer has divided its API offering into two categories: the ThinQ API for individual users and the ThinQ Business API for corporate partners. Both allow software developers to integrate functions from LG AI appliances into their systems.

The ThinQ API enables individual users to remotely control and monitor LG devices installed in homes through various smart home platforms. 

Users of Home Assistant, a community-based open platform with approximately one million global users, can now connect and control 26 types of LG AI appliances, including refrigerators and washing machines.

The ThinQ Business API allows enterprise partners operating office or residential buildings to integrate and manage various LG products within their existing applications, from appliances to commercial equipment such as HVAC systems and signage. 

Building managers can implement features such as washing machine reservation systems in common areas and receive alerts for abnormal conditions detected by LG's temperature and humidity sensors.

LG acquired the smart home platform Athom to enhance its ecosystem integration capabilities.

Athom's Homey platform currently connects more than 50,000 appliances and IoT devices. Its app store features approximately 1,000 apps that control products from global brands, including Philips and Aqara.

Kim Kun-woo, vice president of LG's Home Appliance Solution Company, plans to incorporate Athom's open ecosystem and IoT device connectivity into its AI home hub, LG ThinQ On.