LG MG160 Comprehensive Review Specs and Pricing

Overview of LG MG160

The LG MG160 is a feature phone that was launched in September 2007. Despite the many advancements in mobile technology today, the LG MG160 remains an interesting example of early mobile phone design and function. It belonged to an era when mobile phones prioritized basic communication features over multimedia capabilities. The LG MG160 was discontinued, but it holds nostalgic value for those who used it and is a significant reminder of the mobile technology evolution.

Design and Build

The LG MG160 features a compact design, measuring 98 x 45 x 12.9 mm and weighing only 60 grams. Its petite dimensions and lightweight nature contributed to its portability and ease of use. The phone was available in two colors: Black and Pink, catering to different style preferences. The build was characteristic of early mobile phones with a minimalistic approach, making it durable and easy to handle.

Display

This device is equipped with a 1.5-inch CSTN display capable of displaying 65K colors. The resolution of 128 x 128 pixels provided a clear and straightforward interface for texting and calling, despite the small size and lower pixel density compared to modern screens. The screen-to-body ratio was approximately 16.5%, indicating substantial bezels that framed the display, again typical of the devices from that period.

Network and Connectivity

The LG MG160 supported GSM technology, specifically the 2G bands GSM 900 and 1800. It also supported GPRS with Class 10, which was quite standard for feature phones at that time, facilitating basic internet connectivity. However, the phone did not support EDGE and lacked other modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, WLAN, GPS, and USB, which limited its use beyond simple voice and text communication.

Memory and Storage

Regarding internal storage, the LG MG160 was fundamental. It did not feature a card slot for memory expansion, which is a notable limitation compared to today’s standards where expandable memory is almost expected. For contacts, the phonebook could store up to 300 entries, and the call records could keep track of 40 dialed, received, and missed calls each, illustrating the prioritization of telephony functions.

Sound and Alerts

Audio features on the LG MG160 included a loudspeaker and the capability to download polyphonic ringtones, which allowed users some level of customization for incoming call alerts. However, it did not support a 3.5mm jack, limiting its use as a multimedia device for listening to music or audio files. Alert methods included vibration besides ringtones, ensuring users could customize how they were notified of calls and messages.

Battery Life

The LG MG160 was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 1300mAh. Given the limited functions and small display size, this battery capacity provided sufficient power for a prolonged time before needing a recharge. The ability to easily swap batteries by the user is a feature that has faded in contemporary designs, highlighting a bygone era of user-replaceable batteries.

Additional Features

The phone included some additional features that were of interest in its time. These included basic SMS messaging capabilities and a WAP browser, allowing users to access limited web content. Games were pre-installed, providing basic entertainment options. However, it notably lacked Java support, which was common in feature phones for running apps and games. There were no advanced sensors or external positioning systems included.

Market Reception and Significance

At launch, the LG MG160 was positioned in the market with an approximate price of 50 EUR. It catered to users seeking a straightforward and reliable communication tool without the distraction of modern smartphone features. While it may not offer the functionality expected from current devices, the LG MG160 played a role in the mobile phone industry's progression, bridging the gap between simple telephony and the more sophisticated smartphones that would follow. Its design and function serve as a reflection of the priorities and technological capabilities of its time.