The Early Years: LG G4 and V10
LG's journey in the smartphone market began with the release of the LG G4 in 2015. This phone was special for many reasons, one of which was its use of actual leather on the back. Unlike other phones that used faux leather, the G4 came in a variety of colors and featured a removable back, allowing users to easily swap out the battery.
The LG V10, released later that year, was another standout model. It boasted a rugged aesthetic with a rubber back and stainless steel frame, along with a unique ticker display at the top. The V10 was a precursor to some of LG's best smartphones and set the stage for future innovations.
Modular Design: LG G5
In 2016, LG introduced the G5, which featured a modular design concept. This idea, although not widely adopted at the time, was ahead of its time and could potentially be a future trend. The G5 allowed users to pop in various modules to enhance the phone's functionality, such as adding a better camera or longer battery life.
The G5 also introduced the Ultra Wide Angle Camera, a feature that would later become a standard in many smartphones. This camera allowed for more expansive shots and was a significant innovation in mobile photography.
The Dark Years: G6 and Beyond
The years following the G5 were challenging for LG. The company faced significant competition and struggled to regain its footing in the market. The G6, released in 2017, was an attempt to revitalize the brand but did not quite achieve the desired impact. However, it was during this period that LG began to develop its own design language, which would be seen in future models like the V30.
The V30 was notable for its audio quality and innovative features like the Dual Screen case. This accessory allowed users to run two apps side by side or use it as a game pad, showcasing LG's commitment to multitasking and user experience.
LG V60: A Flagship Worth Mentioning
One of LG's most notable recent releases is the LG V60 ThinQ. This 2020 flagship boasts powerful hardware with a Snapdragon 865 processor, 5,000mAh battery, and 5G support. The V60 also features a trio of cameras including wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, and telephoto lenses, along with a Time of Flight sensor for enhanced AR capabilities.
One of the standout features of the V60 is its Dual Screen accessory. This optional add-on transforms the phone into a functional foldable device, allowing users to run two apps simultaneously or use it as a game controller. The V60's display is also noteworthy, featuring a 6.8-inch OLED panel with HDR10+ support, making it ideal for watching videos and gaming.
LG Velvet: Affordable Excellence
The LG Velvet, released in 2020, aimed to offer an affordable smartphone with features most users needed without unnecessary extras. It featured a sleek design and a 6.8-inch OLED display, although it lacked the Dual Screen accessory of the V60. The Velvet was praised for its value for money and its ability to deliver a premium experience at a lower price point.
LG Wing: A Niche Device
The LG Wing, released in 2020, was a unique device that featured a swiveling design. The phone had two screens, one on the front and one on the back, which could be flipped to create different configurations. While this design was innovative and visually appealing, it was also quite niche and not for everyone. The Wing was praised for its premium design and the flexibility it offered, but it ultimately failed to gain widespread popularity.
Best LG Phones You Can Still Buy
1. LG V60 ThinQ
The LG V60 ThinQ is currently one of the best LG phones you can buy. It comes with decently powerful hardware, including a Snapdragon 865 processor and 5,000mAh battery. The phone also supports 8K video recording and features a trio of cameras with an ultra-wide-angle lens and Time of Flight sensor for enhanced AR capabilities. The V60 also has a Dual Screen accessory that transforms it into a functional foldable device.
2. LG Velvet
The LG Velvet is an affordable smartphone that offers a premium experience without the high price tag. It features a sleek design and a 6.8-inch OLED display. Although it lacks the Dual Screen accessory, the Velvet is praised for its value for money and its ability to deliver a high-quality display and performance at an affordable price.
3. LG Wing
The LG Wing is a unique device with a swiveling design featuring two screens. While it is not for everyone, it offers a premium design and flexibility in terms of screen configurations. The Wing is ideal for those who want to experience something different from the standard smartphone layout.
Price Lists
1. LG V60 ThinQ
- Base Model: Typically priced around $250-$300.
- Dual Screen Case: Additional cost of around $100-$150.
- Total Cost: Approximately $350-$450.
2. LG Velvet
- Base Model: Typically priced around $200-$250.
- No Dual Screen Case: Included in the base price.
- Total Cost: Approximately $200-$250.
3. LG Wing
- Base Model: Typically priced around $300-$350.
- No Dual Screen Case: Included in the base price.
- Total Cost: Approximately $300-$350.
LG's journey in the smartphone market has been marked by innovation and a commitment to quality. Despite its exit from the industry, LG's legacy continues to influence the market. The LG V60 ThinQ, LG Velvet, and LG Wing are some of the best models that still offer value for money. Whether you're looking for powerful hardware, innovative designs, or affordable options, LG has something to offer.
For those considering purchasing an LG phone, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each model. The V60 ThinQ offers top-notch performance and advanced camera features, while the Velvet provides an affordable yet premium experience. The Wing, although niche, offers a unique design that might appeal to those seeking something different.
In summary, LG's smartphones have left a lasting impact on the industry, and their legacy continues to inspire innovation in mobile technology.
