LG launches 'back-to-basics' G6 smartphone in UAE

Dubai - Device passes international standards for safety and durability

LG Electronics Gulf on Sunday unveiled its newest flagship G6 in the UAE, promising back-to-basics use of high-end technologies and kicking off a busy week of new device launches in Dubai this week.
At the launch event, the South Korean technology giant flaunted the first smartphone with an 18:9 screen aspect ratio, offering more viewing space and a better view against the conventional 16:9 size.
It is also unique in its size, staying true to its slogan: the G6 has a 5.7-inch QHD+ FullVision screen, but is still smaller compared to other 5.5-inch devices thanks to the reduced bezels surrounding it.
"With the LG G6, we have focused on the basics," Yong Geun Choi, president of LG Electronics Gulf, said at the launch event.
"We are confident to say that the LG G6 is the best in its class all over the world."
Later, he told Khaleej Times that in a world of fast-moving innovation, LG's strategy was simple: focus on what users need.
"We checked which things are the essential needs of the customer. we increased security and quality for them," Choi said, adding that the "good and enhanced functions" of LG devices have been well-received by its users, most notably its camera.
Strict and rigorous tests were conducted on the LG G6 to prove its durability, such as those for drops, high temperatures and nail penetration, which all meet international standards.
Another first for an LG smartphone: an internal heat pipe that dissipates heat using proprietary technology, which assures safety to consumers who may be wary of lithium-ion batteries being used in electronic devices.
"LG's sister company produces the batteries, so we know the mechanism very well," Choi said. "We did very strict tests to prove the quality of the battery. we put a hole in the battery [using a nail penetration test] to make sure it is safe indeed."
The G6 also has a durable build: a video showed its scratch-resistance, with its fingerprint scanner - located at the back - still functioning normally after having been heavily scratched with a sharp object.
The smartphone is rated IP68, meaning it is resistant to dust and can be submerged in up to 1.5 metres of water for up to 30 minutes.
The LG G6 is also the first smartphone to support Dolby Vision, along with HDR10, both of which are standards for high dynamic range video.
Its cameras have also been bumped up: the 13MP main dual camera and 5MP front camera have 125-degree and 100-degree wide angle capabilities, respectively.
The LG G6 has an internal memory of 32GB expandable up to a 2TB microSD card, and has 4GB of RAM. It will be retailed for Dh2,599 and will go on sale on April 20; pre-orders have begun.
- alvin@khaleejtimes.com

• Mobiles