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LG unveils Android powered handsets, Optimus One and Optimus Chic

Tablet also in the works

LG unveils Android powered handsets, Optimus One and Optimus Chic
Via every games journalist's best friend – the digital press conference – LG today unveiled two new entry level Android handsets it believes will form the perfect first step for smartphone newcomers.

Running version 2.2 – more commonly known as Froyo – both the Optimus One (seen below on the left) and Optimus Chic (on the right) feature a 600MHz processor and a 3.2-inch HVGA capacitive 320x480 touchscreen.

The specs aren't identical, however, with the Optimus One coming with more internal memory – 170MB to the Optimus Chic's 150MB - while the Optimus Chic boasts a 5MP camera compared to the One's 3MP effort.

The friendly phones

"LG is offering the gateway into the smartphone world with the LG Optimus One and the LG Optimus Chic that offer the distinctive benefits of smartphones, in intuitive, approachable packages," said LG CEO and president Skott Ahn.

"LG has a vision of helping people access information fast and easily, no matter where they are. We believe the Optimus series will play a significant role in accomplishing our vision."

With the Optimus One coming with Google branding, LG says both devices will be optimised for Google Mobile's line up, including voice search and actions, as well as Google Goggles, Google Maps and Google Shopper.

Keeping tabs on tablets

LG has also confirmed it has an Android powered tablet in development – dubbed LG Optimus Pad - although the company is yet to give the device any kind of release date.

"We do not want to introduce a large smartphone," Ahn is quoted as saying, presumably taking a swipe at rival Samsung's 7 inch GalaxyTab.

"We will introduce the best in market tablet that will stand among the best existing products, especially among hardware and software."

The Optimus One set to debut in the UK this October and the Chic following on in November.


With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.