LG launches its first-ever smartphone

The announcement comes close on the heels of LG's impressive performance in the first half of 2007 in the region's mobile business.

Smartphones have captured the attention of consumers all across the region, especially with the recent trade exhibitions held in Europe as well as the Middle East, and phones such as LG-KS20 have stood out, garnering acclaim from media and technology enthusiasts alike. The phone's full touch-screen interface gives it unparalleled usability and a top download speed of 3.6 Mbps provides an unforgettable Internet experience.

"More and more customers are using the internet while on the go. HSDPA technology is just one of the features we included in the LG-KS20 to enhance their mobile internet experience," explained Mr. K.W. Kim, President - LG Electronics Middle East and Africa.

"The LG-KS20 clearly demonstrates that LG is the leader in global 3G mobile technology. LG will continue to introduce advanced products that are second-to-none in the mobile industry."

Last month, LG Electronics announced its half-yearly results, which showed its significant gains in the mobile communications division. LG experienced a 96 per cent growth in the GSM handset business, boosted by excellent sales of the PRADA and Shine mobile handsets.

"We are very excited that LG is launching its first Windows Mobile®-powered device in Europe. The LG-KS20 with Windows Mobile 6 offers people a truly enhanced mobile internet experience and is yet another great example of innovation on the Windows Mobile platform," said Marianne Roling, EMEA Director, Mobile Communications Business, Microsoft®.

"Coupled with familiar applications such as Windows Live™ and Office Mobile, LG is helping to define a category of mobile devices with an impressive range of entertainment and productivity options for consumers as well as business users," she added.

Compatibility with the highly advanced HSDPA network gives users the full benefits of the mobile internet, including downloading music, video clips and Windows Live™ content, as well as push e-mail, all at a blistering 3.6 Mbps. The high speed capability also makes video calls possible, taking advantage of the phone's second, user-facing camera.

Though it is only 12.8 mm thick, the LG-KS20 smartphone has room to incorporate an intuitive touch input interface, accessible on its large LCD screen, making it easier and more enjoyable to use. The minimalist, glossy black handset will appeal to those who admire a phone for its design as much as its features.

The phone is also equipped with a host of other advanced features such as handwriting recognition, Wi-Fi connectivity, 128MB internal memory, support for MicroSD external memory and Bluetooth 2.0. It is powered by Microsoft's Windows Mobile® 6 software.