LG GU285 The Complete Guide to Specs Pricing Pros and Cons

Design and Build Quality

The LG GU285 features a compact and lightweight design, weighing only 105 grams. With dimensions of 96 x 45.7 x 14.9 mm, this phone is extremely portable and comfortable to hold. The phone's build includes a sleek and modern look, available in various colors including Black, Silver, White & Red, White & Pink, and Light Silver. The device uses a Mini-SIM and features a durable plastic shell that provides decent protection against everyday knocks and falls.

Display

Equipped with a 2.0-inch TFT display, the LG GU285 offers 256K colors and a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. While the screen-to-body ratio is around 28.7%, the display is sufficient for basic use, providing vibrant enough colors for everyday tasks. The pixel density of approximately 141 ppi ensures that text and images are clear enough for a feature phone of this class.

Performance and Software

The LG GU285 operates on a feature phone platform, which means it lacks the advanced functionalities of smartphones. The device is powered by a simple processor adequate for the tasks it's meant to handle. As a feature phone, it supports basic functionalities like SMS, MMS, and email. The inclusion of Java MIDP 2.0 allows users to run Java-based applications and games, catering to users who need basic entertainment options.

Camera

The camera setup on the LG GU285 includes a single 1.3 MP rear camera, capable of capturing images and recording videos at 176x144 pixels resolution at 15fps. Although the camera specifications are modest by today's standards, it offers basic photography and video recording capabilities for its users. The VGA front camera supports video calls, an impressive feature for a feature phone during its time, although the image quality is understandably basic.

Storage and Memory

The phone has a very limited internal storage capacity of 20 MB, however, it supports expandable storage via a dedicated microSDHC slot. This is especially useful for users who wish to store more music, photos, or small files. The phonebook can accommodate up to 500 entries, allowing for photo call features and sufficient space for contacts.

Connectivity

Even though the LG GU285 is a basic phone, it offers a range of connectivity options. The phone operates on GSM and UMTS networks with supported bands for wide-ranging connectivity. It provides basic Internet browsing capabilities with WAP 2.0/xHTML support and features Bluetooth 2.1 for local data transfer. There's no WLAN, but it features a Stereo FM radio available in selected markets for audio entertainment.

Battery Life

The LG GU285 comes with a removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery, which delivers reasonable endurance for a feature phone. Standby time is up to 383 hours on 2G and 331 hours on 3G, with talk time lasting up to 8 hours and 30 minutes on 2G and up to 5 hours and 20 minutes on 3G. This robust battery life makes it suitable for users who need a device that can last throughout the day without frequent recharging.

Price and Availability

Upon its release, the LG GU285 was priced at approximately 60 EUR, making it an affordable option for those seeking a reliable feature phone. Being discontinued now, it might be available in used or refurbished conditions in various marketplaces. Its price and value reflect its position as a simple, effective communication device during its time of availability.

Conclusion

The LG GU285 stands as a testament to the functional and efficient design of feature phones in the late 2000s. While it lacks the advanced features of contemporary smartphones, it offered essential communication functionalities packed in a compact and portable design. It remains an iconic example of early mobile technology, suitable for users who need a straightforward device for calling, messaging, and basic photography.