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Review: LG Optimus S

Form Basics Extras Video Tour Wrap-Up Comments 48

Menus Calls / Contacts Messaging Social Networking

With all of the apps that come with the Sprint ID packs, the LG Optimus S offers a robust range of messaging options, though a few important features are still missing. The messaging app is the standard Android SMS, with threaded, conversational messaging in place. I had trouble with picture messaging on this phone. None of my picture messages were delivered to the LG Optimus S. Outgoing messages came through just fine, but the Optimus did not receive any pictures I sent.

The phone also gets the standard mix of Google Talk for instant messaging, as well as Gmail and a separate Email app for non-Gmail email. The latter lets you set up Exchange, IMAP or POP accounts on the phone. With the Yahoo! ID pack loaded, you also get a Y! Mail app, and a new client for Yahoo! Messenger.

There are no other instant messenger clients on board, and the App Market offers surprisingly few free options for good IM support. I'd like to see much more, including support for Windows Live, and perhaps MySpace and Facebook chatting. I shouldn't have to search for these, they should really come bundled with Sprint's ID packs.

It would also be cool to see some different keyboard options. Besides the problems with touch sensitivity on the Android keyboard that I discussed previously, I'd like to see a few different keyboard designs. Swype would be a nice addition, but when I'm in the Socially Connected ID pack, how about a keyboard with smileys and other texting shortcuts? For a phone that brags about its customizations, the LG Optimus S and Sprint ID adhere rigidly to the basics when it comes to messaging.

Next page: Social Networking

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LG Optimus S / Optimus U / Optimus V

3.2" display 320 x 480 pixels
S1 MSM7627 processor
1,500 mAh battery
Memory Card Slot, Headphone Jack (3.5mm)

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