LG's Optimus 3D Max modernizes--except for Android 2.3
The Korean electronics company builds on last year's 3D phone with NFC support and other improvements, but it's still stuck with last year's Android.
- Shankland covered the tech industry for more than 25 years and was a science writer for five years before that. He has deep expertise in microprocessors, digital photography, computer hardware and software, internet standards, web technology, and more.
LG Electronics, a second-tier smartphone maker hoping Google's Android operating system will lift its fortunes, today unveiled its new Optimus 3D Max.
The phone, like its 2011 Optimus 3D predecessor, includes glasses-free 3D display technology on a 4.3-inch display and an ability to shoot 3D videos and photos with dual cameras. This year's model is thinner, has faster 21Mbps HSPA+ networking, and supports near-field communications for tap-to-pay systems and other NFC uses such as switching the phone quickly among car, home, and work modes.
One thing that did not change is the version of Google's latest operating system. Even though Android 4.0, aka Ice Cream Sandwich, has been shipping in Samsung's Galaxy Nexus since late 2011, the Optimus 3D Max will still ship initially with the older Android 2.3, aka Gingerbread.
An ICS update will arrive "shortly after the launch," which begins in March in Korea, where LG has its headquarters. European markets will come next, and others will follow, LG said, without releasing pricing or timing specifics.
It can be tough to stand out in the Android crowd, but LG hopes its 3D support will help. The phone comes with a 3D interface with items such as "cubicle" icons, but a button on the phone's side lets people switch quickly to 2D mode if they want.
"LG also plans to continue expanding video contents, applications and games optimized for the 3D Converter available from the 3D Zone at LG SmartWorld," the company said.
LG announced the Optimus 3D Max in conjunction with the Mobile World Congress show that takes place next week in Barcelona.
Among the specs LG shared:
• Chipset: 1.2GHz Dual-Core processor (OMAP4430)
• Display: 4.3-inch 3D WVGA Display with Corning Gorilla Glass 2
• Memory: 8GB Internal Storage, 1GB Internal Memory
• Camera: 5MP Dual-lens
• OS: Android 2.3 Gingerbread
• Battery: 1,520mAh
• Others: HSPA+ 21Mbps, HDMI connection 2D/3D TV/monitor up to 1080p via MHL, DNLA for wireless connection with TV/PC (3D video also supported), NFC Full Support, LG Tag+
