LG outs eye recognition tech for Optimus G Pro, other features in April update

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="LG outs eye recognition tech for Optimus G Pro, other features in April update" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/optimus-g-pro-1363211267.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Sure, there's been a lot of buzz about possible eye-based scrolling in Samsung's Galaxy S IV, but LG's in the eye-recognition spotlight -- for today, at least. The electronics giant has revealed that a "Value Pack" update for the Optimus G Pro will be served up in Korea next month, and will pack a feature called Smart Video that responds to a user's peepers. With its front-facing camera, the handset will pause a video if the user looks away, and start playing it when their gaze falls back on the display. In addition, the upgrade will pack what's said to be a world's first Dual Camera feature (taking a page from the phone's Dual Recording feature, of course), which creates picture-in-picture shots by using the hardware's two cameras.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Devices will also receive the ability to change the home button's LED to correlate with contacts, pause and resume video recording, color emoticons and refreshed QRemote functionality. According to LG, the update's features will find their way to their other premium smartphones in the future, but there's no word on when the revamped software will arrive on phones in other territories. Hit the break for more details in the press release.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <strong><em>EYE RECOGNITION TO BRING NEW LEVEL OF ENTERTAINMENT CONVENIENCE TO LG SMARTPHONE</em></strong><br /> <em>Technology to Debut in Smart Video Feature in Optimus G Pro<br /> <br /> SEOUL, Mar. 14, 2013 - Smart Video, a new multimedia UX feature from LG Electronics (LG), will be unveiled for the first time in the Optimus G Pro. Smart Video takes viewing videos on mobile devices to a whole new level of convenience with eye recognition that eliminates the need to manually control playback during the viewing experience.</em><br /> <em>Through the implementation of advanced eye recognition technology, Smart Video recognizes the position of the viewer's eyes and automatically plays or stops the video without any manual input from the user. When the viewer's eyes are no longer focused on the smartphone display, the front camera recognizes this and immediately pauses the video automatically. Once the user's gaze returns to the smartphone, the video resumes playback from the point last viewed.</em><br /> <em>In addition to the Smart Video feature, Optimus G Pro will also be equipped with the world's first Dual Camera function. The Dual Camera feature is an extension of the Dual Recording feature which debuted on the Optimus G Pro introduced in the Korean market last month. Dual Camera simultaneously captures photographs using both the front and back cameras for a picture-in-picture composition. Users can now be a part of the story, not just observers.</em><br /> <em>"LG is continuously innovating to offer creative ways to offer a user experience that adds value to our customers," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, president and CEO of LG Elec-tronics Mobile Communications Company. "It's the positive UX that will differentiate smartphones in 2013 and beyond, not only cutting-edge hardware specs."<br /> The Smart Video and Dual Camera features will be introduced as a part of the Value Pack upgrade which will be offered for the Optimus G Pro in the Korean market next month. These features will also be made available for some LG premium smartphones in the future.</em><br /> <em>Other features in the Value Pack upgrade include:<br /> • Magic Remote Pad and Text Keypad via the QRemote function. These new options for QRemote work specifically with LG<br /> Smart TVs to enhance convenience when using Optimus G Pro as a remote control for LG Smart TVs.<br /> • The Smart LED Lighting outlining the home button of the Optimus G Pro will be upgraded so users can customize the colors<br /> to correspond to their favorite contacts. The flashing of the LED in different colors will allow users to identify the source of<br /> incoming calls, missed calls, unread messages and emails.<br /> • Video Pause/Resume allows the user to stop and start in record mode for one continuous video file.<br /> • The first Color Emoticons in an Android smartphone for more personalized text messages.</em><br /> </div></div></div>

LG outs eye recognition tech for Optimus G Pro, other features in April update

  Sure, there's been a lot of buzz about possible eye-based scrolling in Samsung's Galaxy S IV, but LG's in the eye-recognition ...

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Refresh Roundup: week of March 4th, 2013

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Refresh Roundup week of March 4th, 2013" data-src-height="420" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/rr-one-x.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Your smartphone and / or tablet is just begging for an update. From time to time, these mobile devices are blessed with maintenance refreshes, bug fixes, custom ROMs and anything in between, and so many of them are floating around that it's easy for a sizable chunk to get lost in the mix. To make sure they don't escape without notice, we've gathered every possible update, hack, and other miscellaneous tomfoolery we could find during the last week and crammed them into one convenient roundup. If you find something available for your device, please give us a shout at tips at engadget dawt com and let us know. Enjoy!</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title0" style="text-align: left;"> Official Android updates</h3><ul dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><li> Samsung Galaxy S III: Verizon, MetroPCS, US Cellular and C Spire have each released Android 4.1.2 for this smartphone. According to Big Red, the new software provides improved Bluetooth performance, enhanced text prediction and the ability to take pictures while on a phone call. Meanwhile, US Cellular states that the update resolves audio issues while streaming video. [Droid Life, @MetroPCS (Twitter), @USCellular (Twitter), Android Central]</li><li> Sony Xperia T: Sony's Canadian division has announced the availability of Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) for this handset, which may be downloaded and installed via the PC Companion software. [MobileSyrup]</li><li> HTC One S: Following Bell and Virgin, Telus has released Android 4.1.1 as an OTA update to this mid-range smartphone. [MobileSyrup]</li><li> LG Optimus G Pro: LG U+ has released a small update for this smartphone that's said to bring improved messaging and camera functionality. [Android Central]</li><li> HTC One SV: French blog <i>Hot To Come</i> reports that Android 4.1.2 is available for this smartphone within the land of liberty, equality and fraternity. [Unwired View, Hot To Come]</li><li> Sony Xperia J: A few users within the <i>xda-developers</i> forums report of an update to Android 4.1.2 that's available for installation via Sony PC Companion. That said, not all users have found similar luck. [Xperia Blog]</li><li> Samsung Galaxy Note: Dutch blog <i>All About Phones</i> reports of an update to Android 4.1.2 for this smartphone within the land of tulips and crowded bicycle racks. [All About Phones]</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" id="title1" style="text-align: left;"> Unofficial Android updates, custom ROMs and misc. hackery</h3><ul dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><li> CyanogenMod: The M2 release of CyanogenMod 10.1 was published this week, which is now based on Android 4.2.2. The list of supported devices is long enough, however, that you'll need to check out the team's blog for yourself. Alongside this news, nightly builds of CyanogenMod 10.1 are now available for the HTC One X (Tegra 3), Motorola RAZR (XT910) and Amazon Kindle Fire. Several Verizon smartphones are also getting nightly love (pardon the phrase), which includes the Droid Bionic, Droid RAZR, Droid 3, Droid 4, Droid Incredible 4G LTE and LG Spectrum. [CyanogenMod, Android Police 1, 2]</li><li> LG Optimus 4X HD: In a wave of good news for this neglected device, a leaked version of Jelly Bean is now available for download, which is made usable thanks to the smartphone's newly unlocked bootloader. [Android Central]</li><li> Galaxy Nexus: A leaked, pre-release version of Android 4.2.2 is now available for download and installation to Verizon's LTE version of this handset. [Droid Life]</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" id="title2" style="text-align: left;"> Other platforms</h3><ul dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><li> Nokia 808 PureView: A new bit of software dubbed the "Gallery and Camera update" is now available for the 808 PureView and a few other Symbian phones. The update brings the ability to easily share multiple photos with recipients, along with the option of uploading them to services such as Facebook, Flickr and Twitter. The camera application has also received a few slight improvements, such as the ability to toggle the LED flash while recording a video. [All About Symbian]</li><li> BlackBerry Z10: Virgin Mobile and Bell Mobility have released BlackBerry OS version 10.0.10.85 as an OTA update for this smartphone. [MobileSyrup]</li></ul></div>

Refresh Roundup: week of March 4th, 2013

  Your smartphone and / or tablet is just begging for an update. From time to time, these mobile devices are blessed with maintenance refr...

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LG Optimus G for Sprint updated to Android 4.1.2

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="LG Optimus G for Sprint updated to Android 412" data-src-height="420" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/optimus-g-jb-1362701691.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Today's been a good day for smartphone updates. In addition to the One X on AT&T and the Droid RAZR on Verizon both receiving bumps to Jelly Bean, Sprint is giving another reason to smile with an update to Android 4.1.2 for the Optimus G. Along with the usual set of improvements such as Google Now, Chrome replaces the default Android browser in this release, and users will also find improved voice search and a new camera app. Additionally, users of alternative launchers will be glad to know that system widgets can be now be installed without root access. All in all, it's high time that this top shelf smartphone made the leap into the world of Jelly Bean, so go ahead and grab the OTA update today.</div></div>

LG Optimus G for Sprint updated to Android 4.1.2

  Today's been a good day for smartphone updates. In addition to the One X on AT&T and the Droid RAZR on Verizon both receiving bum...

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LG's 55-inch OLED HDTV gets UK launch details: £9,999, ships in July

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="LG's 55inch OLED HDTV gets UK launch details 9,999, ships in July" data-src-height="447" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/lg-oled-55-inch.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Nearly a year after LG first showed off the production design for its 55-inch OLED HDTV and just as it begins shipping in Korea and the US, the company has announced UK details for the set. The 55EM970V with its ultra-thin frame and high contrast screen is available for pre-order now at Harrods, Knightsbridge for about £9,999, with delivery expected in July. The only problem (other than scraping together the necessary cash) is deciding between this one and LG's other "world's first" HDTV, the 84-inch 4K model it's also currently shipping. Of course, waiting until 2014 (or beyond) for more supply and lower prices is also an option -- we're sure you will choose wisely.</div><div dir="ltr" id="pr_box_button" style="text-align: left;">Hide Press Release</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <strong>LG LAUNCHES WORLD'S FIRST 55-INCH OLED TV TO UK CONSUMERS</strong></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> UK, 7th March 2013 – LG Electronics (LG) announces today the arrival of the stunning, World's first 55-inch OLED TV to the UK, showcased exclusively at Harrods Technology and available to customers on pre-order for delivery in July.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> The LG OLED TV (55EM970V) ushers in a new era of TV screen technology, at just 4.5 millimetres thin and weighing less than 10 kilograms, yet producing exceptional picture quality and delivering spectacularly vivid and accurate colours due to its superior WRGB technology. LG's OLED TV truly represents the future of TV and is the culmination of years of research and development, with the company committed to continued investment in this technology.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> "We are proud to be the first in the world to offer consumers a big screen OLED TV," said Brian Na, President of LG Electronics UK. "LG's next generation display is a true game changer, which will forever alter the way we think about TVs. Since OLED TV was first unveiled, we've been working tirelessly to bring what we call 'the ultimate display' to market. I'm sure you'll agree that our 55-inch OLED TV has definitely been worth the wait."</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Andrew Mackay, UK Commercial Director of Home Entertainment and Home Appliances added: "Following the LG launch and supply to the Korean market earlier in the year, the UK is proud to be the next market to launch LG OLED TV, as this innovative and premium model launches first in Europe to UK consumers."</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> LG's OLED TV combines the company's leading Smart TV technology and Cinema 3D capabilities with edge-to-edge Cinema Screen Design, creating the most immersive and complete home entertainment experience with stunning style to match.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Since the LG OLED TV first debuted at a Trade Show in January 2012, it has received a number of accolades from prestigious international design associations and well regarded media outlets for both outstanding picture quality and truly exceptional design. In addition to being named Best of Show at CES 2012, the influential Industrial Designers Society of America recognised the 55EM970V with a coveted IDEA Award. Meanwhile, LG received the European Display Achievement 2012-2013 Award from the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) and the TV received Korea's Good Design Award in October 2012.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> The LG 55EM970V is available now at Harrods, Knightsbridge for pre-order with delivery in July, priced at an estimated £9,999.99. The new LG OLED joins LG's other pioneering home entertainment technologies at Harrods Technology, including another World's First in the 84" ULTRA HD TV (84LM960V).</div></div>

LG's 55-inch OLED HDTV gets UK launch details: £9,999, ships in July

  Nearly a year after LG first showed off the production design for its 55-inch OLED HDTV and just as it begins shipping in Korea and the US...

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LG Cinema Beam short-throw laser projector and 100-inch screen released in Korea

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><img alt="LG Cinema Beam shortthrow laser projector and 100inch screen released in Korea" data-src-height="413" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/85149147266dcf068bfeo.jpg" /> </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> One of LG's more surprising product introductions at CES 2013 was its "HECTO" laser projector, which -- when combined with its accompanying 100-inch screen -- is capable of tossing a 1080p image from just 22-inches away. While we'd heard it's coming to the US in March, the projector is out in Korea today branded Cinema Beam TV, available for those ready to drop 9 million won ($8,322) on the package. It has a claimed 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and can accept video via WiDi or Miracast for wireless streaming from a PC or mobile device, while LG also says its laser light source is eco-friendly thanks to a mercury free design and extra long lifetime. The price tag is said to be around $10K when it ships here, apparently the company feels its unique capabilities make it a perfect fit for commercial installations like sports bars, or just high-end home theater customers that value its small footprint.</div></div>

LG Cinema Beam short-throw laser projector and 100-inch screen released in Korea

   One of LG's more surprising product introductions at CES 2013 was its "HECTO" laser projector, which -- when combined with...

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LG announces 10 million LTE smartphones sold worldwide

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><img alt="LG announces 10 million LTE smartphones sold worldwide" data-src-height="400" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/lg-10-million.jpg" /> </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> It's been roughly two years since LG began its role in the LTE Revolution, but the company has just crossed an important milestone in its pursuit. Today, LG revealed that it's now sold 10 million LTE smartphones, which is double the number we last saw in August. Despite the lengthy amount of time it's taken LG to achieve this 10 million figure, the news comes at an interesting juncture, as the company's now ramping up distribution of its halo device, the Optimus G. Similarly, both the Optimus F7 and F5 are due later this year, which will be aimed at those seeking 4G on a budget. Will we see an uptick in LG's sales of LTE smartphones? We certainly hope so, but our Magic 8-Ball's currently broken. That said, you'll find the full announcement after the break.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <strong>LG PASSES TEN MILLION MARK IN LTE SMARTPHONE SALES</strong><br /> LG Expands LTE Market with Compelling Lineup Targeting Diverse Range of Consumer Needs<br /> <br /> SEOUL, Mar. 3, 2013 -- LG Electronics (LG) reports that it has sold more than 10 million LTE smartphones worldwide, a result of the company's aggressive push into 4G markets with a combination of the best hardware and advanced 4G LTE technologies.<br /> "Aggressive pushing forward with 4G LTE technology allows LG satisfy the needs of consumers and is a huge factor in our growing success in global LTE smartphone sales," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of the LG Mobile Communications Company. "Having established ourselves as a major industry player, we will continue to expand our footprint in the global LTE market with a wider range of differentiated, high quality LTE smartphones."<br /> LG's success in expanding its presence in this segment is a result of its early entry into the LTE market and its leadership in LTE research and development. Last year, LG launched popular LTE smartphones in significant markets such as the United States, Japan, Germany and South Korea. In recent weeks, the company began a global rollout of its LG Optimus G in an additional 50 countries.<br /> According to Strategic Analytics, global shipments of LTE smartphones are expected to drastically increase to 275 million units this year. LG is aiming to double its LTE smartphone penetration this year, expanding its presence in both established and emerging markets with a variety of devices. New for 2013, LG's Optimus F series will deliver a high-speed experience to users transitioning from 3G to 4G LTE networks in countries around the world.<br /> </div></div></div>

LG announces 10 million LTE smartphones sold worldwide

  It's been roughly two years since LG began its role in the LTE Revolution, but the company has just crossed an important milestone i...

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The ever-expanding smartphone screen: how supersized became everyday

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Ever expanding smartphone screens" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/ever-expandingsmartphonescreen-crop-2.gif" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> It used to be that any smartphone screen beyond three inches was considered big -- and it was, for an audience still weaning itself off of flip phones and PDAs. Flash-forward several years, however, and we're to the point where many won't even consider less than a 4-inch screen, and the once-unfathomable 5-inch display is quickly becoming the de facto standard for high-end models. It's clear that many of us like our phones supersized, Zack Morris style. But when the 6.1-inch Ascend Mate is a reality, and Mobile World Congress<span> or future events may push the boundaries even further, there's still a worry that the focus on successively bigger displays might have gone too far. Have we pushed too hard for more glass? Or are we witnessing a wholesale shift away from the smartphone as we once knew it? There's truth to both sides. Follow along as we look at how smartphones have swelled over time, and how we're learning to love (or cope with) their dimensions.</span></div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title0" style="text-align: left;"> Before 2007: Small is a virtue</h3><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="The evergrowing smartphone screen how big is too big" data-src-height="450" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/blackberry-6210.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7080182682816192337">We almost need a reminder that much of the smartphone's development before 2007 reflected a drive to shrink the phone, not make it bigger. A desire to slim down the body sometimes took the screen along for the ride, with relatively few objections from buyers who were often just happy to have a smartphone in the first place. The BlackBerry's display shrank from a 3-inch screen on the 5810 to 2.6 inches on the 6200 series, but sales didn't exactly slow down. There were exceptions like the 3.7-inch HTC Universal, too. When even the (now ironically named) TyTN had a 2.8-inch display, however, it's safe to say screen size didn't play nearly as much of a role as it does now.</a> <br /> To some extent, this was dictated by the technology. Bigger displays were more expensive to make than they are today, and they demanded battery power that phones couldn't always supply. Moreover, the resistive touchscreens of the day weren't making a convincing case for touch input as a whole -- anyone who's had to stab multiple times at an unresponsive panel will know why. Combine that with interfaces that often weren't optimized for finger touch, and it's not surprising that phone makers sometimes decided it was easier to combine a smaller screen with a directional pad, a keyboard or both. This was the heyday of the BlackBerry, Nokia's N series and the Palm Treo, when many of us were just getting used to email on our phones.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title1" style="text-align: left;"> 2007-2009: The iPhone and early Android</h3><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="The evergrowing smartphone screen how big is too big" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/droid-and-iphone.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Whatever your platform allegiances, it's hard to dispute the significance of the iPhone's January 2007 announcement in changing our expectations for smartphone screens. Never mind that Steve Jobs describing the device's 3.5-inch LCD as "giant" seems quaint several years later -- the iPhone's support for capacitive multi-touch, and the more intuitive interface that came with it, helped justify replacing hardware buttons with a larger display. Apple also highlighted full web browsing and advanced media playback, both tasks that benefited from a larger screen.<br /> <br /> There weren't any immediate responses in 2007, if only because most competitors already had products in mid-development. The HTC Touch was locked in at 2.8 inches, and Palm was going even smaller with the Centro's 2.2-inch screen. In 2008 and 2009, however, the battle of bigger displays was starting in earnest as companies raced to introduce modern touchscreen phones of their own. Both the BlackBerry Storm and T-Mobile G1 carried 3.2-inch screens. Nokia followed the conventional, 2.8-inch N96 with the touch-focused, 3.5-inch N97. Others even staked the survival of their brands on bigger displays, as complete overhauls of their OS platforms revolved around truly touch-native interfaces. Motorola dropped its BlackBerry-like, Windows Mobile-based Q9 series for the 3.7-inch Droid and the Palm Pre jumped to 3.1 inches after years of 2.5-inch Treos. HTC pushed the limits toward the end of this period with the 4.3-inch HD2 -- a device that seemed like an oversized outlier in late 2009, but it would set the tone for 2010. It was safe to say that any major smartphone builder worth its salt had at least a 3-inch model going into the new decade.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title2" style="text-align: left;"> 2010: The Android screen size explosion</h3><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="The evergrowing smartphone screen how big is too big" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/dell-streak-review-620.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Android was taking off in the wake of the Motorola Droid, and the software's support for both finger touch and multiple resolutions effectively opened the floodgates for companies wanting to one-up each other with bigger screens across more of their lineups. HTC matched Motorola with the 3.7-inch Desire, Nexus One and Droid Incredible earlier in 2010, and expanded its 4.3-inch line to include the Desire HD in October. Motorola continued a hit streak with the 4.3-inch Droid X. Samsung wasn't quite as aggressive as its peers, but there's no denying that the 4-inch Galaxy S served as a benchmark for the entire industry, if just through sheer ubiquity. When it was available on seemingly every carrier and well-regarded for both its vibrant display and its high performance, there was a good chance that many smartphone buyers at least considered a Galaxy S if they weren't dead-set on another device. Samsung managed to sell 10 million units of the flagship smartphone by the start of 2011, proving that 4-inch or larger phones could be popular.</div><blockquote class="quote right" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We even got a peek at how smartphones would look two years down the road, although we didn't realize it at first.</blockquote><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We even got a peek at how smartphones would look two years down the road, although we didn't realize it at first. LG's 4.8-inch, Intel-packing GW990 prototype was labeled as a Mobile Internet Device because it was so much larger than its contemporaries; we had a hard time even believing that it could be a smartphone, even though the necessary cellular ingredients were in place. Nevertheless, the quickly scuttled design served as an unofficial template for future phones by showing how the web and video could benefit from a large canvas. And who can forget the 5-inch Dell Streak? While a chunky frame, cellular data in only some models and a misplaced emphasis on tablet-like software kept the Streak from setting the world on fire, it would prove to be prophetic. It suggested that phones would eventually turn into big-screened data devices that just happened to take phone calls. As often as we teased those who insisted Dell's crossover was pocketable, they had foresight that would have been immensely valuable to phone makers.<br /> <br /> Not every designer hopped on the bandwagon. Apple, Nokia, Palm and RIM mostly stayed the course on screen size in 2010. However, this conservatism wasn't necessarily a setback at the time. Apple had no trouble selling the iPhone 4 with an extra-sharp 3.5-inch display, and it was even defensive about its choice: Jobs is well-known for insisting at the time that phones needed to be usable with one hand, and app compatibility was better served by maintaining the status quos for resolution and size. Palm and other companies bleeding market share had far more on their plates to worry about than mere phone dimensions, even if short-lived devices like the Pre 3 signaled intentions to catch up. Nonetheless, developments during the year would set the stage for the size debate ahead. There were now multiple phones that really needed two hands to work, with no signs of the trend slowing down.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title3" style="text-align: left;"> 2011: Dawn of the supersized phone</h3><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="The evergrowing smartphone screen how big is too big" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/samsung-galaxy-note-review-angle.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> And then the gloves came off. Almost as soon as 2011 began, 4.3-inch smartphones were in the pipeline from most major manufacturers, including Samsung's platform-defining Galaxy S II. Only it didn't stop there: we saw Samsung's 4.5-inch Infuse 4G eclipsed by the 4.65-inch Galaxy Nexus, and HTC rolled out 4.7-inch phones like the Sensation XL and Titan. The rush toward ever-larger phones was sometimes dictated as much by the extreme battery demands of early LTE as it was corporate one-upmanship -- just ask any long-suffering Thunderbolt owner -- but it ultimately led to a market where phones that seemed enormous a year earlier were suddenly modest.</div><blockquote class="quote left" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> The Galaxy Note's 5.3-inch screen and pen pushed it so far past smartphone conventions that it popularized a new term -- like it or not, the "phablet" badge gained wider acceptance.</blockquote><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> All this doesn't even include Samsung's original Galaxy Note. Its 5.3-inch screen and pen pushed it so far past smartphone conventions that it popularized a new term -- like it or not, the "phablet" badge gained wider acceptance after the Note's arrival in October 2011. It was arguably too big to comfortably use one-handed, like the Streak, but faster hardware, a better display and smartly optimized software kept it from becoming a specialist device. The Note would go on to become one of Samsung's best-selling smartphones during the period, and it would ultimately spawn a horde of me-too devices.<br /> <br /> That breakneck pace in screen growth made the exceptions (voluntary or otherwise) all the more visible. While Apple had no shortage of customers for the iPhone 4S, the gap between the iPhone's 3.5-inch LCD and that of its rapidly growing competition was becoming glaringly obvious to those who wanted as much screen area as possible. The difference was even more apparent in the BlackBerry line, where 3.2 inches was still the maximum. Meanwhile, Nokia was mostly saved by its full-steam-ahead transition to Windows Phone, where a brief regression from four inches in Symbian phones to 3.7 inches in the Lumia 800 was accompanied by a more sophisticated platform that may well have rescued the company. Whatever the arguments about the value of screen size, the goalposts for common sizes were shifting.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title4" style="text-align: left;"> 2012: Huge is the new normal</h3><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="HTC Droid DNA review" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/11/dsc02849-1353052941.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> By 2012, even those who hadn't rushed to embrace larger displays had them on deck. Nokia proved it could grow with the 4.3-inch Lumia 900 and, later, the 4.5-inch Lumia 920. Apple also answered a longstanding call for a bigger screen with the 4-inch iPhone 5 -- a comparatively modest leap, but an acknowledgment that the market had changed since the iPhone first arrived. The conservative increase was once again justified by Apple's view that a phone had to be usable with one hand.</div><blockquote class="quote right" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Companies using large screens were increasingly self-conscious of the design limits. A big screen had to work well, not just serve as a bragging right.</blockquote><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Elsewhere, screen dimensions didn't grow up so much as grow out. Sizes once thought extreme were now making their way into thoroughly ordinary devices. Remember how the GW990's 4.8-inch screen seemed impossibly large in 2010? By 2012, Samsung's Galaxy S III made that size commonplace. Many other predominantly Android-based phones, such as the HTC One X, LG Optimus G and Sony Xperia T, often came close at 4.6 or 4.7 inches. The 4.3-inch displays we'd been awed by in 2010 were more often reserved for mid-range handsets like the One S and Motorola's Droid RAZR M. Thankfully, many of the companies using large screens were increasingly self-conscious of the design limits. A big screen had to work well, not just serve as a bragging right. Motorola and Samsung respectively introduced the Droid RAZR HD and Galaxy S III by emphasizing how efficiently they used screen space, occupying little, if any, more total area than their ancestors.<br /> <br /> The extra-large category saw a similar trend. LG only had limited success in countering the Galaxy Note with the overly squat, 5-inch Optimus Vu, but Samsung's own 5.5-inch Galaxy Note II was considerably smarter. While it was more expansive than its ancestor, the Note II was easier to hold, better justified its pen and included settings to make one-handed use feasible for some tasks. Sometimes that improved ergonomic design was the very selling point, as with Pantech's Vega R3 -- its one-handed grip was a relative novelty where such a notion was once a certainty.<br /> <br /> Toward the end of the year, we'd see a trend that would spill into 2013: the 5-inch, 1080p smartphone. HTC's Droid DNA justified its larger size not through pens or other special tricks, but through sheer resolution. It was hard to deny the at least superficial appeal of a phone with as many pixels as the 55-inch TV in the den, even if that device was scarcely smaller than the Galaxy Note from a year earlier.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title5" style="text-align: left;"> 2013: Where do we go from here?</h3><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Huawei Ascend Mate" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/huaweimate.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> While we're just weeks into 2013 as of this writing, a pattern is quickly forming. The once-rare 5-inch smartphone is already abundant with the presence of the Huawei Ascend D2, Sony Xperia Z / ZL and ZTE Grand S. LG's Optimus G Pro is coming in both 5-inch and Samsung-rivaling 5.5-inch flavors. And then there are the 5.7-inch ZTE Grand Memo and 6.1-inch Huawei Ascend Mate -- devices so expansive that they're scarcely an inch away from full-fledged tablets like the Nexus 7. If there's a point where manufacturers back off, we haven't yet reached it.<br /> <br /> As such, it's doubtful that we'll hear a different tune from many of those who have yet to show key parts of their smartphone lineups this year. Apple and BlackBerry are the two companies that haven't pushed their phones to 4.3 inches or beyond, but they've purposefully drawn lines in the sand that they won't cross, at least not in the near future. They have the advantages of OS differences and brand cachet to explain their more moderate screen sizes. Others won't necessarily have that luxury if they're competing mostly on hardware features, however. "Go big or go home" is more than just a truism in this field.</div><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/12/samsung-ativ-s-review-9-1355871164.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We wouldn't say the seeming arms race is a problem, however. Most of the phones we've tried so far include design traits that offset their massive surfaces, such as narrow edges and curved backs. We wouldn't have believed that the Xperia ZL would be comfortable if you'd told us the year before, for example. Samsung's software optimization for single-hand use may be an admission that its hardware design is stretching the limits of human hands, but it's also a way to get the advantages of a big device without requiring both hands at all times.<br /> <br /> Moreover, the primary purposes of smartphones have clearly changed. Early on, they were phones first, and data devices second. The various advents of modern apps, browsing and media shifted the focus enough that voice is almost incidental today. Our smartphones are now pocket computers, and they're often our cameras and GPS units, too. Until and unless wearable computing replaces the smartphone, a bigger screen helps us process the glut of information we face in a day, and frequently provides a source of entertainment when it's time to relax. There's undeniably a threshold at which smartphone builders will have to relent: no one's about to stuff a Galaxy Tab into their pocket. Likewise, there's a good chance we'll still see smaller devices for those who can't (or won't) switch to a phone that's too big for their hands or pockets. Still, the past few years have taught us not to make too many assumptions -- through technology and shifting tastes, what's an extraordinary screen one year often becomes run-of-the-mill fare the next.</div></div>

The ever-expanding smartphone screen: how supersized became everyday

It used to be that any smartphone screen beyond three inches was considered big -- and it was, for an audience still weaning itself off ...

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Huawei, LG pitch tents in growing Firefox OS camp

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Huawei, LG set to join growing Firefox OS camp" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/mwc2013huaweifirefoxmain.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> While we doubt Huawei or LG were singing "I'm late, I'm late for a very important date..." at MWC this year, in hindsight they likely would have enjoyed sharing what arguably became the biggest deal of this show. Unfortunately the two handsets we caught up with at Telefonica's booth were behind glass and no amount of reason was going to see them sprung. Obviously the Huawei offering isn't close to ready as it is running on an Android set, though, the LG while powered off certainly looked like a complete housing featuring the requisite home button. So it would seem Firefox OS has become a waiting game as we sit and tally what other manufacturers feel it's safe to jump on board. Short gallery of the two devices under glass are just below.</div></div>

Huawei, LG pitch tents in growing Firefox OS camp

While we doubt Huawei or LG were singing "I'm late, I'm late for a very important date...

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G demos Optimus G TD-LTE prototype, promises LTE lineup for China Mobile

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="LG demonstrates Optimus G TDLTE prototype, promises range of LTE smartphones for China Mobile" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/optimus-g-td-lte.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Today at Mobile World Congress, LG demoed a modified Optimus G that supports China Mobile's forthcoming TD-LTE network, but just as weighty as the demonstration, the manufacturer also revealed that it'll provide a full line of TD-LTE devices for the world's largest mobile operator. While LG wasn't able to nail down a specific date, it's currently shooting for the second half of this year in order to compliment China Mobile's TD-LTE rollout. Along with the Optimus G, it seems a safe bet that the two companies will be evaluating new smartphones such as the Optimus F7 and F5, along with the Optimus L7II and L5II as candidates to make the leap into the world of TD-LTE. Inquiring minds will find the full presser after the break.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <strong>LG DEMONSTRATES ITS FIRST TD-LTE DEVICE AT MWC 2013</strong><br /> LG to Supply TD-LTE-capable Smartphones in China<br /> <br /> BARCELONA, Feb. 26, 2013 ㅡ LG Electronics (LG) successfully co-demonstrated Time Division-Long Term Evolution (TD-LTE) service at Mobile World Congress 2013 in partnership with China Mobile, the world's largest mobile operator. TD-LTE is a telecommunications technology for 4G LTE networks that differs from the widely adopted Frequency Division-LTE (FD-LTE) technology. China Mobile plans to roll out the TD-LTE network in the second half of this year. The demonstration at MWC 2013 was conducted using a modified Optimus G, LG's flagship smartphone.<br /> <br /> "TD-LTE has the potential to cover 2.7 billion people in Asia alone and today's demonstration proves that this technology is ready for consumers," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "LG is committed to offering a range of TD-LTE smartphones based on our unrivaled leadership in 4G LTE technologies."<br /> <br /> LG will roll out TD-LTE-capable smartphones in China in the second half of the year when China Mobile launches its TD-LTE service.<br /> <br /> For more informationon LG's newest mobile products, visit the LG stand in Hall 3ofFira Gran Via or visit the online newsroom at www.LGnewsroom.com/MWC2013.<br /> </div></div></div>

G demos Optimus G TD-LTE prototype, promises LTE lineup for China Mobile

Today at Mobile World Congress, LG demoed a modified Optimus G that supports China Mobile's forth...

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LG Display invests $655 million to expand OLED HDTV mass production next year

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" dir="ltr" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/dsc01945.jpg" width="640" />  </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Sure, LG's current 55-inch OLED HDTV is pretty pricey with a US MSRP of $12K, but that may start to change next year when panel supplier LG Display kicks its new 8G production line into full gear. LG Electronics holds a 38 percent stake in the company and although it supplies screens to many others as well, the next generation of 55EM9700s will likely be a large segment of the displays produced. Although LCD manufacturers ramped up 8G facilities capable of producing six 55-inch displays from one piece of glass in the late 2000s, oversupply caused prices to drop and manufacturing to slow down, including at LG Display.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Now, new display technology is ramping up investment again, which will see this new line installed at its P9 plant in Paju, South Korea at a cost of 706 billion won ($655 million). Based on LG's WRGB OLED evaporation process, it should be capable of working with as many as 26,000 input sheets per month once it's up to full speed in the first half of 2014. Chief competitor Samsung showed off "production" OLED HDTVs last year and plenty of demo units at CES with a mid-year release planned, we'll see if it manages to keep up before / if the tech goes mainstream.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>

LG Display invests $655 million to expand OLED HDTV mass production next year

  Sure, LG's current 55-inch OLED HDTV is pretty pricey with a US MSRP of $12K, but that may start to change next year when panel suppl...

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LG's 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro is the first with a Snapdragon 600 quad-core CPU

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" dir="ltr" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="350" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/lg-optimus-g-pro-55.jpg" width="640" /> </div><div class="separator" dir="ltr" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> LG finally showed off the XL 5.5-inch version of its upcoming Optimus G Pro at the end of a Facebook promo last week, and now it's revealed a launch date in Korea, more specs and a window for arrival in North America. Also of note? Its CPU is the just-announced quad-core Snapdragon 600 running at 1.7Ghz. Announced at CES, the 600 is supposed to be a milder upgrade (compared to the potentially 2.3GHz Snapdragon 800) to its predecessor, the powerful S4 Pro. New software tweaks include a dual record that uses both cameras simultaneously and VR Panorama that appears to be similar to Google's Photo Sphere stitching.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Besides the expanded 1080p screen and updated internals, the larger version also sports a slightly larger battery than the Japanese version announced previously by NTT Docomo with 3,140mAh compared to 3,000, but keeps the 2GB of RAM, 13MP rear camera, microSDXC slot and LTE. The phone will be released on local carriers SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus on Wednesday for 968,000 won ($897), while a North American launch is mentioned for Q2 along with the Japanese release. We'll find out more about this phone -- and likely a few others -- at MWC 2013 later this week, for now check out the press release after the break for more specs.</div></div>

LG's 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro is the first with a Snapdragon 600 quad-core CPU

  LG finally showed off the XL 5.5-inch version of its upcoming Optimus G Pro at the end of a Facebook promo last week, and now it's r...

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Nexus 4 Wireless Charger hands-on

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Nexus 4 Wireless Charger handson" data-src-height="465" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesschargerlead01.jpg" /></div>Palm's Touchstone dock immediately came to mind when we first saw LG's Nexus 4 Wireless Charger last fall (now available for $60 in the Play Store). Both devices are circular, with a micro-USB port in back and a slanted front surface on which to rest the phone. That's where the similarities end -- while the Touchstone is cylindrical and uses a proprietary wireless charging system, the Nexus 4 Wireless Charger is larger, spherical and Qi-compatible. Another major difference is that Palm's dock uses magnets to line up and secure the handset, and LG's accessory relies solely on the friction between a rubber ring and the glass back of Google's flagship phone. Design-wise the Nexus 4 Wireless Charger looks similar to a smaller Nexus Q cut in half, down to the matching recessed square connector cutout.<br /><div class="post-gallery"><h3 class="title"><strong>Nexus 4 Wireless Charger hands-on</strong></h3><ol style="text-align: left;"><li class="thumb" data-count="18"> <img height="400" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesscharger01_95x95.jpg" width="400" /> </li></ol><ul class="thumbs"><li class="thumb" data-count="18"> <img height="400" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesscharger02_95x95.jpg" width="400" /> </li><li class="thumb" data-count="18"> <img height="400" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesscharger03_95x95.jpg" width="400" /> </li><li class="thumb" data-count="18"> <img height="400" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesscharger05_95x95.jpg" width="400" /> </li><li class="thumb" data-count="18"> <img height="400" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesscharger04_95x95.jpg" width="400" /> </li><li class="thumb" data-count="18"> <img height="400" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/nexus4wirelesscharger07_95x95.jpg" width="400" /> </li>See all photos</ul></div>In the box you'll find a 5V 1.8A AC adapter (vs. 1.2A for the one supplied with the Nexus 4) along with a micro-USB cable (longer than the one provided with the handset). The manual warns to "use only the power adapter and micro-USB cable that come with your Nexus 4 Wireless Charger", but we didn't have any trouble with other USB power sources beyond longer charging times. We tested the dock with the Nexus 4, Droid DNA, Lumia 920 and Lumia 822 (with the optional Wireless Charging Cover) -- basically, LG's accessory provides the same experience as Nokia's Wireless Charging Plate ($50), which is also Qi-compatible. The $10 difference buys you a matching design and a spare USB power adapter and micro-USB cable (Nokia's plate comes with a proprietary AC adapter). It takes about 4 hours to fully charge Google's flagship phone using wireless power -- check out the gallery above for some action shots.<br /> </div></div>

Nexus 4 Wireless Charger hands-on

Palm's Touchstone dock immediately came to mind when we first saw LG's Nexus 4 Wireless Charger...

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LG reveals 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro design with curved glass

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="LG reveals 55inch Optimus G Pro design with curved glass" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/lg-optimus-g-pro-55.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Clearly, a lot of us wanted LG to reveal the design of the 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro as quickly as possible: just a day after a teaser, we're looking at the complete picture. And it's quite a looker, by all counts. While it has the familiar digital cube pattern on the back, it's also using curved glass in black or white, which LG says produces a "2.5D" effect. Those other details that LG is willing to divulge are largely what we expected based on the Japanese edition, including a full HD (1080p) display and a quad-core processor that's likely the Snapdragon S4 Pro. LG expects the larger G Pro to launch in late February, although it didn't say whether or not this is limited to South Korea; based on the timing, though, we might get a peek at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. </div></div>

LG reveals 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro design with curved glass

Clearly, a lot of us wanted LG to reveal the design of the 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro as quickly as possible: just a day after a teaser, we'...

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LG Spirit 4G arrives on MetroPCS, delivers 4.5-inch display and ICS to the budget-minded crowd

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="LG Spirit 4G arrives on MetroPCS, delivers 45inch display and ICS to the budgetminded crowd" data-src-height="450" data-src-width="243" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/lgspirit4gleadjpg-1359614268.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We are definitely no strangers to seeing MetroPCS bring well-priced, decently-specced Android handsets to market, and we have a feeling that's something potential and current subscribers certainly appreciate. Because, well, who doesn't like choice? With today's LG Spirit 4G launch, MetroPCS continues to expand its LTE-at-a-bargain ideals, announcing a smartphone that carries some pretty decent specs for being contract-free and costing a mere 269 bucks. Naturally, the 4.5-inch, 960 x 540 display is among the Spirit's main highlights, but there's also an unspecified 1.2GHz, dual-core CPU, a 5-megapixel rear shooter capable of 1080p video, and Ice Cream Sandwich, to boot. The carrier's quick to point out that its newly introduced slab is a follow-up to that LG Motion 4G we saw last year, and that it's compatible with those LTE plans which were unveiled earlier this month. It's worth noting that while the LG Spirit 4G's official MSRP is $269, MetroPCS will have it up for grabs, starting today, at the cheaper price of $199 -- that, of course, after a <em>beloved</em> mail-in rebate and for "a limited time" only. You'll find a couple more press shots after the break, and be sure to hit the source link if you're interested in grabbing one of these for yourself.</div></div>

LG Spirit 4G arrives on MetroPCS, delivers 4.5-inch display and ICS to the budget-minded crowd

We are definitely no strangers to seeing MetroPCS bring well-priced, decently-specced Android handset...

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LG Optimus L7 successor leaks in Russia with 4.3-inch display

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Successor to the budget LG Optimus L7 leaks in Russia with 43inch display, dualSIM ability " data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/lg-optimus-leak2.jpg" /><br /> As entry-level phones go, last year's Optimus L7 had a few pluses on its score sheet -- but equally some serious drawbacks, including a reluctant touchscreen and a shoddy camera module. There's always hope for progress in this business, however, and given that LG already hinted at a new L-series phone in its earnings report, we're inclined to believe a leak that's just come in from Russian site <em>Hi.tech.mail.ru</em>. The pictures show a much softer-edged design with a dedicated SIM-switch button down below, in both black and white. In terms of specs, we're looking at a 2,460mAh battery that is said to last for two days, an 8-megapixel rear camera capable of 720p video and a 1GHz dual-core chip powering Android 4.1 with LG's custom UI on top. The Russian price of 12,990 rubles equates to around $430, which is a lot more than the $300 SIM-free price of the first L7 (not to mention a Nexus 4) -- but then these currency conversions are often wayward.<br /> </div></div>

LG Optimus L7 successor leaks in Russia with 4.3-inch display

As entry-level phones go, last year's Optimus L7 had a few pluses on its score sheet -- but equally some serious drawbacks, includi...

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