How to Install .IPK Files with webOS Dev Manager

What is an .IPK File on LG webOS?

On LG Smart TVs running webOS, files with the .ipk (itsy package format) extension represent the standard compressed package containing the complete application: its configuration manifest (appinfo.json), HTML/CSS user interface, JavaScript runtime logic, and visual assets.

While LG's command-line developer tools (ares-install) allow installation through a terminal, the fastest and most user-friendly approach is using the free, open-source desktop software webOS Dev Manager.

Step 1: Download webOS Dev Manager

webOS Dev Manager is a modern desktop application available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It provides an intuitive graphical interface to inspect, install, remove, and manage applications and background services on your network-connected LG TV.

Download the latest release from the official GitHub repository (webosbrew/dev-manager-desktop). Install and run the app on your computer.

Step 2: Connect Your LG TV in the Software

1. Ensure the Developer Mode application is active on your LG TV with the Key Server toggled ON (if not done yet, check our guide to enable Developer Mode).
2. In webOS Dev Manager on your PC, click on Add Device (or the + button).
3. Fill in your TV's connection details:
   • Device Name: Choose a name (e.g., Living Room LG OLED).
   • IP Address: The local IP address shown on your TV's Developer Mode screen (e.g., 192.168.1.50).
   • Port: 9922 (standard Developer Mode port).
   • Auth Method: Select Developer Mode (Passphrase).
   • Passphrase: Enter the 6-character code shown on your TV screen.
4. Click Connect. The status indicator will turn green once connected!

Step 3: Deploy the Vibe IPTV .IPK Package

With your TV connected, installation takes just a few seconds:

1. Download the official package vibeiptv_1.5.1.ipk to your computer.
2. In the webOS Dev Manager window, click on Install .IPK at the top right (or simply drag and drop the downloaded file into the application window).
3. Select the downloaded package. A transfer progress bar will appear.
4. A confirmation message reading Application installed successfully will announce that deployment is complete.

CLI Alternative: Using the Official LG ares-cli SDK

If you prefer a terminal without a graphical user interface, you can install the official LG webOS CLI tools and run:

Fetch the SSH security key and deploy the application: