LG announces world's first WCDMA phones capable of worldwide roaming

These LG handsets are the first 3G models that can automatically roam in 220 countries, as they support all three WCDMA bands (850, 1900 and 2100 MHz) as well as conventional GSM bands. With other handsets it is impossible to roam across regions that use different frequencies, as mobile phones typically only support one or two bands.

The GSMA created the Horizon Phone initiative to provide a range of multi-frequency mobile broadband handsets that will meet the needs of customers around the world, while promoting more widespread adoption of the 850 MHz frequency. This competition is the first phase in the initiative and the LG-KM560 and LG-KP330 were selected by a panel of experts from six leading operators including Telstra, Telenor, Rogers Wireless, Telefonica Movile, Cable & Wireless International, and Entel PCS, according to the GSMA.

"The selection of LG's HSDPA phones for the GSMA's Horizon Phone initiative demonstrates that operators have recognised LG's strong commitment to advanced technologies and business practices in 3G," said Mr. K. W. Kim, CEO of LG Electronics Middle East and Africa Regional Company. "LG will continue to provide new and better 3G phones that customers want, based on our cutting-edge technologies and high standard of quality."

Last year, LG won the GSMA's 3G for All campaign with its LG-KU250 handset. This year's win will give LG additional momentum in the fast growing 3G market. In 2008, overall sales of 3G handsets will rise to 250 million units, up 56% from last year's 160 million units, according to Gartner Dataquest 2007. Compatibility with the 850 MHz band is especially important for the success of these handsets.

'The GSMA's Horizon Phone initiative will help operators to establish the 850 MHz spectrum as an integral 3G frequency band, which will lead to more cost effective communications and a greater choice of products for users," said Craig Ehrlich, Chairman of the GSM Association. "LG's 3G HSPA technologies leverage the superior breadth and depth of the 850 MHz spectrum and will help position it as a competitive network."

LG will initially make the LG-KM560 and LG-KP330 available through the six operators and others that helped select the phones, in the second half of 2008. It will later introduce the handsets across Europe, Asia and Latin America.