LG KG290 Unveiling Specs Pricing & Performance

Network and Connectivity

The LG KG290 was released in a time when GSM networks predominated the mobile telephony landscape. This device was equipped to support GSM technology, which was the predominant 2G service at the time. It operated on GSM 900, 1800, and 1900 bands, allowing it to be used globally across different GSM networks. The device also supported GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) Class 10, which offered basic mobile internet capabilities suitable for browsing simple WAP-based web pages. However, it lacked support for EDGE technology, which was becoming more common for faster data services during its launch period.

Launch and Discontinuation

The LG KG290 was first announced in September 2007 and later released in February 2008. Despite its entry into the market during the growing popularity of feature and early smartphone devices, it was eventually discontinued. This phone represents a bygone era of mobile design and technology.

Design and Build

The device had dimensions of 92 x 46 x 17.7 mm, making it quite compact by today's standards. It weighed around 90 grams, making it lightweight and easy to carry. The device used a Mini-SIM, typical for the time. The phone was available in classic black and gray colors, appealing to a wide range of consumers with its subtle and professional look.

Display Features

The LG KG290 featured a TFT display capable of showing 256K colors, a significant feature for a feature phone of its time. The screen measured 1.77 inches with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, offering a pixel density of roughly 116 ppi. This display was suitable for basic tasks such as viewing texts, basic multimedia, and limited browsing.

Memory and Storage

The phone came with a modest internal memory of 5MB, which restricted the number of apps, messages, and media files users could store directly on the device. However, it had a dedicated microSD slot allowing for expandable storage, which was crucial for users who wanted to store more media and data. The phonebook could store contacts with photocall abilities, and the call records feature stored details for up to 40 dialed, received, and missed calls each, ensuring users could keep track of their call history efficiently.

Camera Specifications

For basic photography, the LG KG290 was equipped with a single 1.3 MP camera. During its time, this was sufficient for capturing quick and simple photographs. It also had video recording capabilities, albeit at a lower quality compared to modern standards. This camera was a notable feature, as many feature phones relied more on calls and texts than multimedia.

Audio and Sound

The phone had a built-in loudspeaker that provided clear audio for calls and media playback. It supported a variety of alert types, including vibration and downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones. However, it did not include a 3.5mm headphone jack, which might have been a limitation for users wanting to use their personal headphones.

Communication and Features

While the phone lacked WLAN capabilities, it supported Bluetooth connectivity, which was useful for short-range wireless data transfer and hands-free devices. The LG KG290 also featured an FM radio, an exciting feature for many users for entertainment and information. The USB connectivity, being proprietary, meant that users needed specific cables, though it allowed for data transfer and charging the device. It also featured basic messaging capabilities, supporting SMS and MMS, and had a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for basic internet access. The phone supported Java MIDP 2.0, allowing for the installation of basic Java-based applications and games.

Battery Life

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion 820 mAh battery. This allowed for a standby time of up to 200 hours and a talk time of up to 2 hours. Though not extensive by today's standards, it was generally adequate for users given the less demanding background applications and simpler functionalities compared to modern smartphones.

Pricing and Market Position

At its time of release, the LG KG290 was priced at about 60 EUR, making it an accessible option for users looking for a basic yet reliable mobile phone. Given its feature set, it was positioned as an affordable device for users interested in simple communication with added features such as a camera and expandable memory.

Conclusion

The LG KG290 reflects the transitional phase in mobile technology during the late 2000s. It catered to users who were eager to explore camera features while maintaining core functionalities like calls and messaging. Its combination of a small form factor, adequate battery life, and affordability made it an appealing choice for its time. This device marks an important step in the evolution of mobile phones, bridging the gap between basic phones and more feature-rich devices.