Feature Articles

The Google Android 2.3 Smartphone Guide

By Seow Tein Hee - 24 Mar 2011

LG

LG

LG has been taking careful steps when they started to explore the Android world. Unfortunately, that was where it faltered, being unable to keep up with the competition. In 2010, the company did not have much to show, with just a few devices that did not make much of an impression. Faced with the threat of getting ousted even on the Android platform, the Korean company took on a more aggressive approach in 2011, charging head on into experimental territory. This includes their first dual-core smartphone, the LG Optimus 2X, a new display technology on their LG Optimus Black, and bringing 3D technology to the mobile market with the LG Optimus 3D.

Sounds pretty exciting for consumers, but here's the catch - these LG devices will be launched with Android 2.2. Fret not, LG has promised an Android 2.3 update to these three devices at a later date. So if you are not too concerned with an earlier Android version and eager to experience the dual-core speeds or 3D content on these LG devices, here are some of the key features of these LG devices.

For a quick glance at the specifications, here's a comparison between the Android 2.3 lineup under LG's wings.

 

LG Devices Receiving Google Android 2.3 Update

 

LG Optimus 2X

LG Optimus 2X

Powered by NVIDIA's Tegra 2 chip and loaded with Android 2.2 (with an upcoming update to 2.3), the LG Optimus 2X also offers 1080p video recording or playback through either its 4.0-inch WVGA screen or via HDMI-out. As it stands, the Optimus 2X is LG's call to arms against its competitors, bringing dual-core CPU performance on the mobile platform. In other words, the Optimus 2X holds much potential as a high performance device. All it needs, is the right apps to harness and showcase its processing prowess. At the same time, we also hope for a newer firmware to make it a more power efficient device.

Device Availability: March 2011

Android 2.3 Update Availability: TBC

Here's our review of the LG Optimus 2X.

LG Optimus Black

LG Optimus Black

It's not easy to create a phone that looks as good as it performs. The Optimus Black represents the company's continued focus on design excellence. Its unique selling point lies with its slim profile that measures in the range of 6mm to 9.2mm, thanks to the tapered edge along the borders. This does give the impression that the Optimus Black is thinner than it re. Visual performance also takes center stage with its 4-inch display with improved brightness thanks to its Nova display.

Device Availability: May 2011

Android 2.3 Update Availability: TBC

Here's our preview of the LG Optimus Black.

LG Optimus 3D

LG Optimus 3D

The LG Optimus 3D isn't just unique for its 3D proposition. The device is powered by the Texas Instrument OMAP4 chipset, which creates a dual-core, dual-channel and dual-memory architecture (hence 3D) to drive better performance for its 3D imaging and display aspects. Speaking of which, the display comes with a generous real estate space of 4.3 inches, and as is capable of rendering 3D images without the use of 3D glasses. Besides its 3D display, the Optimus 3D comes with dual 5-megapixel cameras for 3D imaging. In short, the Optimus 3D brings a whole lot of novelty to the Android table. Question is - will the novelty wear off over time? Time will tell.

Device Availability: TBC

Android 2.3 Update Availability:TBC

Here's our hands-on with the LG Optimus 3D.

LG Optimus Black

LG Optimus Black

It's not easy to create a phone that looks as good as it performs. The Optimus Black represents the company's continued focus on design excellence. Its unique selling point lies with its slim profile that measures in the range of 6mm to 9.2mm, thanks to the tapered edge along the borders. This does give the impression that the Optimus Black is thinner than it re. Visual performance also takes center stage with its 4-inch display with improved brightness thanks to its Nova display.

Device Availability: May 2011

Android 2.3 Update Availability: TBC

Here's our preview of the LG Optimus Black.

LG Optimus One

LG Optimus One

Winner of the Best Value Smartphone in our annual Tech Awards, the LG Optimus proves to be truly a devices that's value for buck. Though it does not have the raw processing power of its newer siblings, this petite Android device, powered by a 600MHz processor and a modestly sized 3.2-inch display, is an indication of the wide-reaching presence of the Android platform into the masses. And as we mentioned, the affordable pricing makes it even more enticing for one to hop onto the Android bandwagon.

Android 2.3 Update Availability: June 2011

Here's our review of the LG Optimus One.

Join HWZ's Telegram channel here and catch all the latest tech news!
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.