LG U890 Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build Quality

The LG U890, launched in February 2006, is a compact device with dimensions of 98.8 x 49 x 18.2 mm and a weight of 99 grams. Crafted with a sleek and elegant design, it feels sturdy in hand. The mobile's build makes it easily pocketable and convenient for everyday use. The device employs a Mini-SIM and features a unique design aspect with its 180-degree rotating camera, setting it apart aesthetically from its contemporaries.

Display

The U890 phone is equipped with a 2.2-inch TFT display that supports up to 256K colors, offering a display resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. Although compact, this screen size and quality were standard for feature phones of its era. It manages to deliver reasonably vivid colors and sharpness, catering well to its basic needs such as messaging and viewing pictures.

Camera Capabilities

While simplistic by today's standards, the LG U890's camera was quite innovative at the time. Sporting a single 1.3 MP camera with a unique 180-degree rotating lens, it allowed users to take both stills and self-portraits with relative ease. Though lacking modern advancements like flash or high resolutions, its video recording capability in QCIF format was a notable feature for video callers even with its modest sensor.

Network and Connectivity

The LG U890 supports GSM and UMTS networks, providing basic 2G and 3G connectivity. It operates on frequencies of GSM 900/1800/1900 and UMTS 2100, ensuring moderate worldwide usability. With a data transfer speed of 384 kbps, the device supported web browsing through a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 1.1 with A2DP support, enabling wireless headset usage, although it lacks Wi-Fi and GPS functionality.

Sound and Audio

Audio capabilities on the LG U890 include a stereo loudspeaker system, enhancing the playback quality of its MP3 and polyphonic ringtones. While it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, users had to invest in proprietary headphones or compatible Bluetooth headsets to enjoy private listening sessions.

Memory and Storage

With an internal memory of 68MB, the U890 offers limited storage for applications, contacts, and media. However, it compensates for this with a dedicated microSD slot, allowing users to expand their storage capacity. The phonebook and call log features enabled users to store essential contacts while maintaining a log of the last 10 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Software and Usability

Operating as a feature phone, the LG U890 runs basic applications suited to the needs of its users at the time. It comes equipped with messaging capabilities including SMS, EMS, MMS, and Email support. Furthermore, the device supports Java MIDP 2.0, which permitted the use of downloadable games and applications, enhancing its utility and entertainment options.

Battery Life

Underpinning the phone's hardware is a removable Li-Ion battery. With a 1440mAh capacity, it delivers enough power to last an entire day under regular use, aligning with the modest demands of feature phones, typically involving calls, text messaging, and light media consumption.

Conclusion

Reflecting on its release period in 2006, the LG U890 stands out as a testament to the era's advancement in mobile phone technology, balancing features between entry-level functionalities and innovative form factors like its rotating camera. Though discontinued, it remains a symbol of practicality and compact design, illustrating the progress and transition towards the more sophisticated smartphones we are acquainted with today.