LG G6
LG Touts the G7 ThinQ's 6.1-Inch Super Bright Display
LG says its forthcoming flagship will have a redesigned FullVision display that adds a number of new technologies. The screen measures 6.1 inches across the diagonal at a new aspect ratio of 19.5:9 to account for the additional screen real estate forming the notch. The company says it reduced the size of the bottom bezel by 50% when compared to the G6 to give the phone even more screen real estate on front. The display packs 3,210 by 1,440 pixels for quad HD+ resolution. The G7 ThinQ uses LG's Super Bright Display LCD technology and claims to have a brightness of 1000 nits, making it one of the brighter displays available on a modern phone. LG says this "allows users the convenience of operating the phone in almost any lighting condition, notably under bright sunlight while reducing power consumption by as much as 30 percent than the LG G6." LG claims the screen can automatically adapt to six screen color settings depending on the content, such as movies, sports, games, and such. The phone analyzes the owner's activity and switches screen color profiles to match on the fly in order to conserve power. Beyond this automatic tool, owners will be able to take full control over the display's color profiles through dedicated RGB sliders. The LG G7 ThinQ is expected to be announced at an event next month.
LG Promises Faster Phone Updates, Starting with the G6
LG is making a renewed commitment to distributing software updates to its phones in a more timely manner. LG today said it officially opened a new Software Upgrade Center at its Magok-dong facility in South Korea. The Software Upgrade Center is charged with developing and delivering regular system updates to LG phones, as well as ensuring the user experience is consistent from device to device. LG has historically been slower than many of its rivals to release software updates, even for its flagship phones. "Stable and consistent upgrades will demonstrate to our customers that LG smartphones have long and reliable lifespans," said Mr. Jo Seong-jin, CEO of LG Electronics. The first initiative to come from LG's new Software Upgrade Center is to bring Android 8 Oreo to the LG G6. The update will reach G6 devices in Korea later this month with other key markets to follow. LG first launched the G6, a flagship phone, in February 2017.
LG Widens Color Selection for G6 and Q6
LG today added several new colors to its range of handsets. Starting next month, the LG G6 will be available in Moroccan Blue, Lavender Violet, and Raspberry Rose, while the LG Q6 will be available in Moroccan Blue and Lavender Violet. Both phones are already available in Astro Black, Ice Platinum, Mystic White, Terra Gold, and Marine Blue. The new colors will go on sale in LG's home market of Korea first, with other markets to follow later. The G6 was first announced in February 2017, and the Q6 followed in July 2017. The addition of these colors follows recent reports that LG may not introduce a new flagship handset during the Mobile World Congress trade show in February as initially expected, and will instead do things like upgrade the memory or add colors to its existing lineup.
LG to Drop 'G' Branding for Next Flagship Phone
LG has confirmed plans to rebrand its line of flagship handsets. The company will drop the "G" naming convention that it has used since 2012 in favor of a new brand. The most recent handsets to make use of the G brand include the 2017 G6 and the 2016 G5. "LG is preparing a new brand strategy for the G series in the first half of the year. Numbering the phone with a two-digit number and rebranding the phone with a new name are some of the options on the table," said LG in statement provided to Digital Daily. "Rebranding flagship models is nothing new, and Samsung and Apple have done so for their own flagships," said a representative to The Investor. The company has typically introduced its G-branded flagships during the first quarter of the year and its V-branded flagships during the third quarter. LG hasn't said what new branding it might select to replace the G series, or if it will also change the branding for its V series phones. LG may debut the successor to the G6 at the Mobile World Congress trade show scheduled for February.
Top Five Flagship Handsets of 2017
The last twelve months have given us some of the most compelling smartphones ever made. New screen shapes, advanced cameras, and waterproof bodies have improved the everyday experience of those willing to fork over lots of cash for high-end handsets. Here are our picks for the top five flagship smartphones of 2017.
US Cellular Offering Free iPhone 8, Galaxy S8, or LG G6
U.S. Cellular today announced a holiday offering that will provide customers with a free flagship smartphone. The company will give customers a free Samsung Galaxy S8, iPhone 8, LG G6, or Motorola Moto Z Force when they sign up for an unlimited plan between November 22 and November 27. Customers will need to trade-in a recent flagship, such as the Galaxy S6, iPhone 6, or V20, to score the free phone. The free handset will be comped through monthly rebates over a period of 30 months. Customers who don't have a device to trade in can get a reduced-cost flagship for a monthly payment of just $10 in addition to the unlimited plan. U.S. Cellular's unlimited plan costs $70 for a single line, though multi-line discounts are available. U.S. Cellular offers up to 22 GB of high-speed data per billing cycle. Customers who exceed that limit will see speeds reduced to 2G for the remained of the month. The company is also offering discounts on Google Home, LG Tones, and Parrot Drones during its holiday sale. Last, customers who refer a family member or friend who signs up for service can score a $50 reward.
LG Q6 to Come to U.S. as Amazon Prime Exclusive
Amazon today announced that it will soon offer a slew of LG Android smartphones through its Amazon Prime Exclusives program. Among them is the LG Q6 (pictured), marking the first time this particular phone is being made available to U.S. consumers. The Q6, announced in July, features a 5.5-inch, 18:9 display with full HD+ resolution, curved aluminum frame, and minimized bezels. It runs Android 7.1 Nougat and includes Google Assistant and facial recognition for unlocking the phone. The main camera has a standard-angle 13-megapixel sensor and the front camera has a 100-degree, wide-angle 5-megapixel sensor. The Q6 is powered by a Snapdragon 435 processor and includes a 3,000mAh battery and NFC. The Q6 costs $300, but Amazon Prime members can buy it for $230 through Amazon Prime Exclusives. Handsets sold under the Prime Exclusives banner cost less because users agree to view advertisements on the lock screen. Amazon said the Q6 will become available in the coming months. Amazon is also slated to sell the LG G6 ($400), G6+ ($500), and X charge ($150), all of which have been for sale directly from carriers since earlier this year. All four phones are sold unlocked with support for AT&T and T-Mobile.
Samsung Note8, Sony Xperia XZ1, LG V30 Earn Netflix HDR
Netflix recently added the Samsung Galaxy Note8, Sony Xperia XZ1, and the LG V30 to the short list of those able to play back high-definition video in HDR. High-dynamic range content offers better contrast than standard content. The only other handsets capable of supporting Netflix HDR are the LG G6 and Xperia XZ Premium, which have the needed HDR displays. In order to view HDR content on these handsets, owners have to subscribe to the $12 premium Netflix plan (streaming on four screens and ultra HD resolution). They'll also have to ensure the latest version of the app is installed on their phone, and select "high definition" for video playback quality.
Sprint, T-Mobile Discount LG G6 and V20
Sprint and T-Mobile today both introduced promotions that make LG's flagship handsets more affordable. Sprint, for example, dropped the lease price of the G6 from $29.50 per month to $20 per month. That cuts the full cost of the phone from about $700 to $480, or a savings of $220 over time. T-Mobile is offering a buy-one, get-one promo on the G6 and V20. Customers who buy either phone on an equipment installment plan can get a second for free with the activation of a new line. T-Mobile sells the G6 for $20 down and $20 per month, or $500 in total. It sells the V20 for $0 down and $20 per month, or $480 in total. Customers will need to buy both devices and then register to receive a rebate to cover the cost of the second phone. The rebate comes in the form of a prepaid MasterCard for up to $500. LG is widely expected to replace the V20 with its new V30 flagship later this month.
Sony Xperia XZ Premium Gains HDR Video from Netflix
Netflix recently added the Sony Xperia XZ smartphone to the short list of those able to play back high-definition video in HDR. High-dynamic range content offers better contrast than standard content. The only other handset capable of supporting Netflix HDR is the LG G6. Both the G6 and Xperia XZ have the needed HDR displays. In order to view HDR content on either phone, owners have to subscribe to the $12 premium Netflix plan (streaming on four screens and ultra HD resolution). They'll also have to ensure the latest version of the app is installed on their phone, and select "high definition" for video playback quality.
LG Pins Mobile Hopes On Forthcoming High-End Phone
LG today reported second quarter earnings and the news was mixed. While three of its four business units saw growth, its Mobile Communications Company saw flat income and an operating loss of $117.4 million. LG blamed its quarterly performance on weaker than expected sales of its flagship smartphone, the G6, and an increase in component costs. LG showed off the G6 at the Mobile World Congress event in February and the device reached world markets in April. It's a premium metal-and-glass smartphone with a unique 18:9 display and dual cameras. LG said its mobile unit did see a 13% increase in sales across North America thanks largely to strong performance of its mass-tier handsets, such as the K20 and Stylo 3. LG hopes things will get better. "The introduction of the new Q series and the rollout of a new high-end device in the weeks ahead are expected to bolster the company’s performance in the second half of 2017," it said in a statement. The high-end device in question is likely the V30, a follow-up to last year's V20. LG has a press event scheduled on August 31 during the IFA trade show, which will take place in Berlin.
5 Best Phones to Take On Summer Vacation
Summer is here, which means it's time to go on vacation! Whether you prefer to make day trips to local points of interest, or plan far-flung adventures that span the globe, you're going to want your trusty smartphone by your side. Here are our top smartphone picks to help you get the most out of your summer sojourns.
LG Debuts G6+ with More Storage and Better Music
LG today announced the G6+, a refined version of its flagship smartphone that offers a few under-the-hood improvements. The G6+ ships with 128 GB of on-board storage (rather than 64 GB) and premium headphones from Bang & Olufsen that are better able to take advantage of the 32-bit quad DAC. LG says the result is richer-sounding music. LG made some cosmetic improvements, too; for example, the rear glass panel how has a lenticular film to help create optical effects in the glass, and the bezels surrounding the display have been turned black in order to blend in with the screen (when off). The G6+ and the existing G6 are available in an expanded range of colors, including Optical Astro Black, Optical Marine Blue, and Optical Terra Gold. Beyond the G6+ hardware, LG also announced some new software features. LG plans to update the G6 with a Face Print feature, a new low-power consumption tool, and a covered lens warning. The Face Print feature is a security option that relies on facial recognition. Users hold the G6 up to their face and the user-facing camera will scan them and unlock the phone. The covered-lens warning is meant to tell users that their finger is blocking the camera. The idea is to prevent bad shots. These features will be preloaded on the G6 and G6+ moving forward, and will hit existing phones next month. LG said the timing of the G6+ launch and the software update will vary on a market-by-market basis. Pricing for the G6+ wasn't disclosed.
T-Mobile Rolls Out Buy-One, Get-One Offer for Samsung Galaxy S8 and LG G6
T-Mobile said shoppers will be able to score a free Samsung Galaxy S8 or S8+, or LG G6 or V20 (pictured) through a new buy-one, get-one offer that kicks off June 16. Existing T-Mobile customers need to buy both phones on an installment plan and subscribe to an unlimited data service plan in order to qualify. New T-Mobile customers will need to activate both phones on the T-Mobile One plan. The BOGO offer requires customers to mail in a rebate form. T-Mobile will then mail a prepaid gift card within about eight weeks to cover the cost of the second handset. T-Mobile says it will reimburse customers for the cost of the lesser of whichever phones they purchase, up to $500 for the LG G6 or V20 and up to $790 for the Galaxy S8 or S8+. Customers will need to pay sales tax on both devices at the point of sale. The offer is contingent on customers staying through the 24 month installment plan. Those who leave T-Mobile before 24 months will need to cover the remaining balance of the two phones. T-Mobile warns that video is streamed at 480p and the top 3% of users may experience reduced speeds during network congestion.
LG Offers Two-Year Warranty Service for the G6
LG today debuted the Second Year Promise program for the G6 smartphone. The program is available in the U.S. to consumers who purchase the G6 through a carrier or other authorized reseller. Owners of the G6 will need to register the device within 90 days of purchase, including their own personal contact details, device identifiers (IMEI), and proof of purchase. LG says the Second Year Promise will provide G6 owners a free replacement device (new or refurbished) if their original is found to have manufacturer defects at any time during the 13th through 24th months of ownership. LG will provide free shipping and promises to get the replacement delivered within two business days. The warranty basically doubles the standard 12-month offering from LG. LG G6 owners can register through LG's web site.
Unlocked LG G6 Reaches Amazon and B&H
LG today said the unlocked version of its G6 flagship handset is now available from select online retailers. The G6 is on Amazon.com for $630 and on B&H.com for $599. Both Amazon and B&H will ship the phone today. LG has listed the unlocked variant on its own site for $699 with shipping dates beginning May 18. LG said the unlocked G6 will also soon be available from BestBuy.com. The unlocked G6 supports CDMA and GSM/LTE networks and is compatible with most U.S. carriers, including AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. The phone features a 5.7-inch 18:9 display, normal and wide-angle cameras, and a metal-and-glass design.
LG G6 vs. Samsung Galaxy S8: Buying Points to Consider
Can't decide between the LG G6 and Samsung Galaxy S8? It's a tough choice, to be sure. These appealing Android smartphones represent the best from LG and Samsung by breaking new ground in design and refining core features along the way. Here are how these two phones compare head-to-head on a handful of essential buying points.
Verizon Bundling Free TV with LG G6
Verizon Wireless' launch plans for the LG G6 include a free LG television set. To start, Verizon is asking $28 per month for 24 months, or about $672 in total for the LG G6. For a limited time, customers can get a free LG 43-inch Smart TV when activating an LG G6 on a new Verizon Unlimited service plan. In order to get the TV, customers need to remain with Verizon for at least six months and then submit a claim. The TV will be shipped 8 to 10 weeks after the claim is made. Verizon Wireless is also offering up to $200 on select trade-ins. The trade-ins must be in good, working condition and are limited to the Apple iPhone 6, 6 Plus and SE; the HTC 10; the LG G4, G5, V10, or V20; or the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 or 5, S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+, S7, and S7 edge. Last, LG G6 buyers qualify for a free Google Home from LG. Preorders begin March 17 and Verizon will begin shipping the LG G6 on March 30.
AT&T Launching LG G6 with 2-for-1 Offer
AT&T today announced its plans to sell the LG G6 and the company is going a step further than competitor T-Mobile. For a limited time, people who purchase an LG G6 can score a second LG G6 when adding a new line. AT&T is asking for $24 per month for 30 months to cover the cost of the phone, or about $720 in total. The offer requires both lines use an AT&T Next installment plan, and the cost of the second device will be covered on a month-to-month basis. In addition to the two-for-one offer, customers who buy the LG G6 before April 30 will be given a free Google Home by LG. Last, AT&T customers who buy an LG G6 can get the LG Watch Sport for $50 with a two-year service agreement on the wearable. AT&T will start taking preorders for the LG G6 on March 17, with orders shipping on April 7.
T-Mobile to Sell LG G6 Starting April 7 for $650
T-Mobile today said customers can buy the LG G6 online and in stores beginning April 7. T-Mobile is asking for $26 down and $26 per month for 24 months to cover the phone's $650 retail cost. Further, T-Mobile customers who order the G6 before April 30 will receive a Google Home from LG for free. The Google Home normally costs $129. The LG G6 has a 5.7-inch screen with an 18:9, or 2:1, aspect ratio. Other features include a Snapdragon 821 processor, dual 13-megapixel cameras, and a rear-mounted fingerprint reader. The phone is made from metal and glass and is waterproof. It runs Android 7 Nougat and includes the Google Assistant.
Hands On with the LG G6
LG's flagship handset for the year is the gorgeous G6. It's a beautiful handset that packs an a amazing amount of technology into its slim frame. This may be the first year wherein LG's flagship truly goes toe-to-toe with the best from Apple and Samsung. Here are our first impressions of the LG G6.
LG G6 Is Rugged, Waterproof, and Powerful
LG today announced the G6, its flagship smartphone for 2017, which is meant to compete with the Apple iPhone 7 and Samsung Galaxy S8. The G6 features a sleek metal-and-glass design that keeps the footprint at a minimum despite the large screen. The G6 packs a unique 5.7-inch qHD+ display with an 18:9 aspect ratio and curved corners. The rounded corders of the display, along with the rigid aluminum chassis and Gorilla Glass 3, make the display less prone to breakage when dropped. LG has tweaked the UI to take advantage of the added real estate with additional software controls that appear in select apps. The camera app, in particular, takes advantage of the 18:9 (or, if you prefer, 2:1) aspect ratio to allow for two side-by-side square photos when shooting, along with an always-visible film strip. The camera itself boasts two, identical 13-megapixel sensors, one with a 125-degree wide field of view, and the other with a standard field of view. The camera capture 4K video and includes a two-tone flash. LG selected a 5-megapixel sensor for the user-facing camera, which has a 100-degree field of view, a selfie flash via the LCD screen, and advanced beautification controls. It records full HD video. The LG G6 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor with 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage. The phone supports microSD memory cards up to 2 TB. LG improved the battery in size when compared to last year's G5 to 3,300mAh. It supports Quick Charge 3.0 rapid charging and Qi/AirFuel wireless charging through the Gorilla Glass 5 rear panel. LG said the phone will support myriad LTE bands, including those used by all four carriers in the U.S. Pricing and exact availability are expected to be announced by LG's carrier partners, though the retail launch is expected by March 10.
LG's G6 to Carry Dual 13MP Rear Cameras
LG today said its forthcoming G6 flagship smartphone will include two rear-mounted cameras and a single front-facing camera in much the same vein as last year's V20. The rear cameras will each capture 13 megapixels, says LG, with one taking standard field-of-view shots and the other taking 125-degree, wide-angle shots. LG says users will be able to switch between the two cameras seamlessly with no delay, and the wide-angle lens reduces optical distortion around the outer edges for cleaner pictures. LG said the cameras have equal resolution sensors due to consumer feedback wishing for higher quality images from the secondary camera. LG didn't specify the resolution of the user-facing camera on front, but did indicate it, too, takes wide-angle pictures with a field of view measuring 100 degrees. Moreover, LG has added a handful of new tools to the user-facing camera for self portraits, including the ability to combine between 2 and 100 images to create GIFs. Other features headed to the G6 camera include an enhanced food mode, and 360-degree panoramas for virtual reality apps captured via the wide-angle camera on the rear. LG has already shared lots of the G6's features ahead of the phone's expected Feb. 26 debut.
