LG Apex with Android OS on US Cellular: Product Review

Google's Android operating system is all the rage these days and it seems that everyone is releasing a device with some form of the OS included. The latest version is the Gingerbread, Android 2.3 which was released on the Google Nexus S December 16 2010. LG, a major player in the consumer electronics market released the LG Apex on the U.S. Cellular network, according to a press release dated November 17, 2010.

While this may not be a competitor to some of the higher end, higher priced smartphones, considering the pricing, the smartphone could move very well. One the most compelling features is the price; starting out at $79.99, the LG Apex is now available for $49.99 after an $80.00 rebate. Yes, it doesn't make sense, but that's marketing for you. For that price getting an Android smartphone is a real treat as long as it works. Does it?

Design Features

The feature that most people have commented on is the keyboard. This is a full QWERTY, slide-out keyboard that has been reviewed as being very well designed and popular with users. This is not true of the LG Ally, its cousin on the Verizon network, which has a better battery performance, stronger processor, and a higher price tag. The Apex is compact at 4.5-inches high by 2.2 inches wide, but a little thicker than many others at .62 inches However, when holding it in the hands, it feels quite comfortable.

The screen real estate is a little cramped with a 3.2-inch capacitive touch screen but the 800 by 480 resolution and 242,000 color range make for a crisp and very viewable display, also something mentioned by users that like the unit.

Connectivity & Other Features

The Apex is 3G ready and includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connectivity. The battery talk time is estimated at 450 minutes which, while not the best, is good for average users and great considering the price. The Apex runs Android 2.1 and has 102MB of internal user memory, but it also supports 4GB SD cards; one is included for a nice touch. GPS is provided by Google Maps. The upside is that the LG Apex comes with a 3-megapixel camera that also includes LED flash and 4x digital zoom.

Overall Thoughts

There are a few complaints mainly centered on the front panel keys that have been noted as hard to push. One other small complaint is that the back light does not stay lit long enough to get good use from the keyboard.

Overall, the LG Apex is a great value for the money. The complaints regarding the front panel keys could be a problem for some users but the battery issue is moot as most users will find it adequate. This is not a competitor for the greatest Android phone in the world but it may be the one that a lot of consumers use to enjoy the Android experience driven by the easy price tag and solid features. LG is on the mark with the Apex for price/feature ratio. Expect to see this one under a lot of trees this year.

Sources:

Bonnie Cha, "LG Apex (US Cellular)," CNet Reviews
"LG Apex Features & Specifications," LG US
"LG Apex The Latest Android Powered Phone to Land at US Cellular November 19," US Cellular Press Room