My LG X110 review

Ok, I know this is a mobile blog, and so far, I've limited myself to the (already vast) world of mobiles, but every so often, I do get asked to review the occasional gadget. Usually I'd decline, but for this one, I didn't refuse. Why? First, let me introduce to you, the LG X110 Netbook.

SimpurGadgets has nicely done a short write up on this here. I've also spent some time with it myself and it has to be said, I thoroughly enjoyed using the X110. I don't use alot of Netbooks, but I will say also, the X110 is very decent for its price.

On the physical aspects side of things, the build quality is truly impressive and as my review unit came in glossy white, the thing that struck me most was how compact it felt. Opening the lid reveals a white keyboard which is surrounded by a silver case around the keyboard and the screen. With my large hands, I did not have any problems using it at all.

On the display and hardware front, the X110 sports a 10-inch screen with 1024 x 600 pixels and weighs just a little over 1kg; 1.19kg to be exact. This is small enough to carry easily in any bag without knowing its even there. LG has thrown in Windows XP Home as standard and is coupled with a 160GB hard drive. There are also 3 USB ports, a VGA out port, Ethernet connector, flash card reader for SD and Memory Stick formats, and headphones and microphone connectors. For those who like to see who they are chatting with, the X110 also comes with a 1.3 megapixel webcam for video calling.

On the sound quality, the speakers simply blew me away. It is extremely loud for something this small. I compared it with my MacBook and it was quite obvious which was the winner here. But then, I realised, with the location of the speakers being on the underside of the casing, LG might have anticipated for this.

Ok, so what makes this Netbook stand out then?

It is the inclusion of a SIM card slot for your broadband surfing needs. Simply insert your 3G enabled SIM (you have to open up the battery cover first), and you're good to go, anytime and any place, without the need to rely too much on Wifi spots. (However, make sure that you subscribe to a broadband package to enjoy the benefits). I tested out the speeds on my 3G surfing compared with the built in Wifi, the results were unnoticable. Both were extremely fast and half the time, I had to check whether I was still on 3G or not. Bluetooth does comes as standard. Surfing with the broadband lasted me about 3 hours, which I think is quite reasonable for its battery life.

On the downside, there is a lack of an optical drive which might be a deal breaker for some.

Overall, I was really impressed with the size mostly of the X110. It is small. So small. I even managed to stuff it into my DSLR camera bag too. So, if anyone asks me about the X110, I'd recommend it instantly.

The LG X110 is available at Incomm at the Gadong Branch. It retails at a very reasonable price of BND1,099. Don't forget to use your DST privilege card for further discounts.

Updates and a Treo Resurrection: New Treo Pro

Hi everyone. I am still very much alive. Been a bit held up over the past month which has kept me from completing my review and updating my site. Well, I'm back.... again.

I have still been keeping up to date with the new releases from Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Samsung, LG, Motorola (the list is endless), Apple (yes the 3G has been set loose into the world!) and a even brand that's close to my heart, the Palm Treo.

This quarter's updates:

1. Nokia's released the 8800 Carbon Arte, N85 and N79 (N96 I just heard has started shipping for those of you who are waiting).
2. Sony Ericsson's released W902, W595 and the W302.
   
3. Samsung's released the highly acclaimed Samsung Omnia (I've actually had the chance to play with one up close. Its impressive). In black AND white variations too!
   
4. LG's released the successor to the Viewty, the KC910
5. Motorola's released a model called MOTOJEWEL. No prizes for guessing its targeted at the ladies.
   
6. Last but not least, a surprise by many, Palm has just released the new Treo update which is bound to take the (treo) world by storm; the Palm Treo Pro.

Treo Pro Specs

• Size: 114 x 60 x 13.5mm and 133g in weight.
  
• Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional
• 256MB (100MB user available), 128MB RAM program memory
• Micro SD compatible
• 320 x 320 pixel (a FIRST in WinOS devices!) although 65k colours
  
• Touchscreen
• 3.5mm audio jack
• Comes in black

But just look at it. Its gorgeous.

Apple, another worth while mention, has launched the 3G variant of their take-the-world-by-storm iPhone. Available in 8Gb and 16Gb, black or white, this upgrade has caused queues and overnight sleepovers just like its predecessor did.

Decisions, desicions... with Christmas not long away, or Raya (however you see it) its time to carefully plan your next gadget of choice.

TOP 15 Mobiles today!

d3xlabs is back. In the country that is.

My apologies for the lack of updates everyone. I still can't believe the last time I posted was during Chinese New Year! That's a whole month ago! I've been so busy with work, flying in and out of the country that I've not had the time to update my blog as much as I'd like to. The good thing is, I'm back again so I can settle back into life in Beautiful Brunei (and focus a bit on my phone reviews!)

BUT, just to share with you (or satisfy you), I've recently been asked to write brief reviews about the latest phones in the market in a local magazine. It was an honour to been asked to do so. So I've been spending a good amount of time with each of these mobiles, which you'll soon see. But in light of the many models requested for, and the limited space on the magazine, the reviews I've done are short and sweet.

And so I decided, for my blog readers, why not post up the same reviews (with some more added juicy info) onto my blog tonight (!) so that d3xlabs readers can be the first to read it before the magazine is released!

As the Title suggests, let me first begin by adding that these models are the TOP 15 mobiles that are out in the market today. I will begin with Motorola, Samsung, LG, Sony Ericsson and lastly, Nokia. They are not in any order in terms of which are the best, but I will try add some recommendations on whether I think they are worth parting your hard earned cash with.

MOTOROLA
Motorola RAZR V9

Motorola has been synonymous with classic models like StarTac of the 90's and RAZR. Its also been 3 years of touting the RAZR brand. You could say people are getting a bit bored of it. Until now. Motorola has finally introduced the RAZR2. Having big shoes to fill, the RAZR2 V9 is now 1mm thinner than the original RAZR, made of stainless steel and apparently, up to 120 pounds of pressure can be placed on the V9’s hinges. This means that, unlike other fashion wannabe phones out there, you know the V9 is built to last. Stacked with a number of cool features like HSDPA capabilities, a 2-megapixel camera and full Bluetooth support, the Razr2 sets itself apart from the rest with a very eye-catching design. It also sports a 2.2" QVGA resolution display on the inside and a suprisingly large 2" external TFT display on the outside – perhaps the largest found on any clamshell handset on the market. Also on the external screen, touch sensitive music keys with tactile feedback is found. Overall, the RAZR2 V9 is a very impressive successor to the original RAZR.

The Motorola V9 is ideal for: Those who appreciate solid stylish flip phones and have remained loyal to the Motorola brand. Remains true to its RAZR style.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND668-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.


SAMSUNG
Samsung D880

Dual sim phones have so far been present in mostly China made brands, and its popularity in this side of South East Asia have been less than promising. However, now with the introduction of the D880 from giant Samsung, this trend could very well be headed towards a more widely accepted norm in the region. The D880 is now able to hold two sim cards simultaneously and users will also enjoy the 2.3” QVGA display, a 3 megapixels autofocus camera, a document viewer, an increased capacity battery and also a business card recognition feature, all packed into this slider form factor that is synonymous with the brand. Only time will tell if the other mobile giants will be heading in this direction, but for now, at least we know that there is such a model out there in the market should we have the need for one.

The Samsung D880 is ideal for those who travel and dislike carrying 2 mobile phones with 2 different lines wherever they go. "Finally", as some people have expressed.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - TBC.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.


LG - LIFE's GOOD
LG KU380

Perhaps little is known about LG and their presence in the market share, but they are no doubt seen as aggressive in developing their product ranges and listening to the needs of the mobile community. The LG KU380 is yet another addition to the pack and is a 3G enabled slider form factor offering which sports a TFT 22k colour screen, 60MB onboard memory, Bluetooth, 1.3 megapixel camera with 15 fps video capturing abilities and an FM radio.
The LG KU380 is ideal for those who want a slider no-nonsense mobile that just does the job and does it well, without all the fancy bells and whistles.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND258-00,
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

LG KU990 Viewty

Comparing to previous models of old, LG really shows that they take into account user feedback, and are always aiming to develop their product line, both in terms of design and features, from the LG Chocolate to the LG Prada, and now, the LG KU990 Viewty. Under the hood of this feature packed arsenal lies an impressive 3" touchscreen display with 240 x 400 pixels resolution, HSDPA 3.6 Mbps capability, stereo Bluetooth and the most hyped up weapon of choice, the highly intriguing 5 megapixel camera with autofocus, which is also capable of capturing video at 120 fps. The LG KU990 definitely looks set to be a sweeping success. Perhaps a first ever feature, is the ability to edit an image after snapping it, with the gorgeous touchscreen. This will surely be attractive especially for those photo aficionados out there.
The LG KU990 Viewty is ideal for those keen photographers who want that little something extra from their camera phone. K850i and N82 had better keep a watch on their heels, this underdog will be one to watch out for.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND898-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

SONY ERICSSON
Sony Ericsson W890i

We all remember the introduction of the slim and sexy W880i (my old review here) when it was first launched. However, slim as it was, many could not handle the noticeable letdowns; the tiny keys and lack of FM radio. In comes the W890i. It now addresses the minor flaws of the W880i, with added support for HSDPA, quad-band GSM, the new Sony ericsson SensMe tempo, mood detector, 3.2 megapixel Cyber-shot camera, fast photo browser, finger print resistant body panels AND all this in a still-slim body. This worthy upgrade from Sony Ericsson indeed places it in a position above its predecessor and is set to be a huge seller.
The Sony Ericsson W890i is ideal for those music buffs who like to mix fashion with a bit of fun. Better keypad, better overall experience. Definitely worth the upgrade.
Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND668-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

Sony Ericsson W960i

The Sony Ericsson W950i, which was released last year, was considered revolutionary with its 4GB of integrated memory especially in the line up as a Walkman phone. However, its shortcomings with regards to the lack of a camera and Wifi capabilities left users wanting. With that, Sony Ericsson introduced the W960i as a replacement. They have now brought out their big guns with this model, fielding a scorching 8GB of storage space, a large touchscreen 262K color TFT display, a 3 megapixel camera, 3G/Wifi capabilities AND all this in an oh-so-sexy-slim-and-nice-to-touch-body. You just have to hold one to know how it feels. Feature-wise, it resembles more to its smartphone brother, the Sony Ericsson P1 but with the addition of a dedicated Walkman key and 3-touch sensitive keys for controlling the music player. This model is a great choice and will certainly leave music fans drooling and feeling tingly all over.
The Sony Ericsson W960i is ideal for the hardcore music buff that loves having entire music collections on the go.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND888-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts

Sony Ericsson W910i

The addition of the Sony Ericsson W910 into their Walkman range has only strengthened their position in the music market. This solid performer sports a slim slider form factor, a high quality 2.4” display, supports 3G/HSDPA, improved Walkman 3.0 features (with SensMe and a first ever Shake control feature), FM radio, a 2 megapixel camera, fast photo browser and a decent loudspeaker. To balance it out, the W910i will also garner a lot of lovers as its looks place it in the market as a fashion-savvy phone. However, those expecting to use the W910i as a camera should take note, it does not have autofocus or flash. But at least you’ll look good with the W910 by your side.
The Sony Ericsson W910i is ideal for those who want to look good while enjoying listening to their favourite tunes. Shaking the phone to skip to the next track is definitely fun too, espcially for others to watch.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND628-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts

Sony Ericsson K850i

With the Cyber-shot name and reputation to uphold, Sony Ericsson called on reinforcements and launched its newest member and big-daddy of the Cyber-shot range, the K850i. Aside from the obvious addition of the Xenon flash and Cyber shot first-ever ISO settings to adapt under different lighting conditions, you’ll also find the standard autofocus, Macro focus, Best Pic technology, new 3 touch soft keys, an experimental tiny square keypad layout and a rather unusual navigation rail. Another worthwhile mention is the inclusion of a dual purpose memory slot; you can use either a Memory Stick Micro or a microSD. This means you will never need to worry about not having enough memory for those special moments. All in all, in such a small and compact size, these features alone make the K850i the closest ANY phone has ever come to matching the standalone digital camera experience.
The Sony Ericsson K850i is ideal for both the snap happy amateurs as well as the serious photographer who don’t want to miss any special moments with their loved ones. Picture quality is unmatched so far!

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND698-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.


NOKIA
NOKIA Nokia 2600 Classic

Nokia has been long renowned for meeting the needs of the market with models that are simple and easy for users of all ages. Sporting a TFT 65K colour screen, phonebook capabilities of up to 1000 entries, GPRS/EDGE capabilities, Bluetooth, a VGA camera/video capabilities and colour choices of Blue, Black, Orange and Beige, the 2600 classic is armed with enough features to please those out there with the most basic needs; phone calls and SMS’s, and then some. Most value-for-money model out there.

The Nokia 2600 classic is ideal for those who appreciate the simple things in life; basic phone calls and SMS’s.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND138-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

Nokia N95 8GB

When the Nokia N95 was first released, it was considered as the ultimate smartphone in the market. Packed with a feature list comprising of; Symbian Series 60 v3, HSDPA capabilities, built-in GPS, a 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss lens, DVD quality video, easy to reach music controls in a very neat 2-way slider form factor, it was set to remain on its throne for a long time coming. But, it was all too good to be true. The N95’s power greedy features sucked the soul off the battery life and this was the most major downfall for the N95. Until that is, Nokia decided to reach back into their armoury and pull out yet another trick out of its hat; the introduction of the Nokia N95 8Gb. This new release has now turned evil with its new reincarnation of black styling, a beautiful 2.8” screen, a whopping 8Gb of internal memory and most important of all, the battery life now has soul. The Nokia N95 8Gb will satisfy the needs of all who expect much from it, and best of all, the same features we all remember from the old N95 still remain.
(My review here)
The Nokia N95 8Gb is ideal for those who want their mobiles to be able to keep up with them in their fast paced lives or even slow down with them in life to appreciate the little things around. The king of smartphones is back in the building.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND1,038-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

Nokia N81 8GB

The launch of the Nokia N81 proved to be a milestone first as it is one of the first handsets to support its re-launched N-Gage gaming platform. Aimed solely at the niche youth market, the N81 8Gb is meant to be the most affordable multimedia device marring music, gaming and imaging all under its hood. Sporting features such as Symbian S60 v3.1, wifi support, dedicated gaming keys, a brilliant 2.4” 16M display, a 2 megapixel camera, dedicated multimedia/music keys (with standard 3.5mm audio jack and over the roof stereo speakers!), a whopping 8Gb internal memory and a touch sensitive Navi wheel all in a compact slider form factor, the Nokia N81 8Gb is all set to thrill. However, it is worth mentioning that those interested in buying this gaming device will need to get used to its newly positioned key layout but all will be quickly forgotten as the N81 truly is an excellent pick-me-up for those moments of sheer boredom.

The Nokia N81 8Gb is ideal for those who are addicted to gaming but refuse to admit it. And the speakers, it just blows your ears away.
Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND718-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.


Nokia N82

The Nokia N82, a direct competitor to the Sony Ericsson K850i, is the latest of releases to the N-series range under the Nokia brand. The N82 has all the features that promises to make it a truly best seller, combining smartphone functionality with one of the best camera phones in the market today. Sporting a 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, Xenon flash with active lens cover, a 2.4” 16M color display, Symbian S60 v3 OS, wifi/3G/HSDPA functionalities, auto UI rotation, stereo speakers, built-in GPS, TV-out capabilities, standard 3.5mm audio jack, support up to 8Gb microSD memory and a commendable battery performance, the N82 is a buy that you will hardly ever regret. Perfect especially for those who want to capture those truly special moments without carrying another device, the decision is so simple, N82.
The Nokia N82 is ideal for those who want to capture the shots of their children growing up or special moments with their friends by their sides. And it does a real neat job in keeping your schedules and giving you directions on maps too!

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND798-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.


Nokia E51

Nokia is renowned for churning out reliable and outstanding business phones, which also cater towards those who would like to mix business with a bit of pleasure. The conservative wolf in sheeps clothing Nokia E51 is one such device. Replacing its predecessor, the E50, the E51 brings functionality to a higher level with the inclusion of Symbian S60 v3.1 OS, 3G/HSDPA/WIFI capabilities, 130MB onboard memory, very comfortable keypad/D-pad, new symbian key icons, a 2 megapixel camera and all this packed into a very very slim 12mm body, making it the thinnest Eseries squad member in the ranks. The also-very stylish Nokia E51 proves to be quite a well-balanced performer that will certainly become an instant bestseller not only for business users, but for regular users too.
The Nokia E51 is ideal for those who want a reasonably priced business phone that can do it all, and look good at the same time.

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND478-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

Nokia N800

Perhaps of all the models from Nokia, the one that has not made any huge headlines is the tablet series. From the Nokia 7700 and 7710, demand has not quite been anything to shout about. But this has not stopped Nokia from improving on the series, with the launch of the Nokia N800 internet tablet. It is stacked with features such as a large 4.1” 800x480 touchscreen display, displaying both text and pictures very clearly, WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth, a mini-USB port, and a 3.5mm headphones jack. It runs off a 320Mhz TI CPU, and 128MB RAM, and includes 256MB of flash storage and two SD slots. The most outstanding feature of the N800 is the use of the WiFi capability that makes surfing an extreme joy for those not wanting to carry around a laptop or be restricted to desktop bound PC’s.
The Nokia N800 is ideal for those internet junkies and with the 4.1” screen, need I say more?

Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND468-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

Nokia 8800 Arte

Nokia has always maintained a stronghold on their flagship 8-series models, focusing more on the essence of premium lifestyles with exclusive and highest quality materials used on each improved model. The Nokia 8800 Arte is a 150 grams of solid steel piece of art and its exclusiveness is good enough reason for people who favour style over function. Some may argue that features such as a 2” 16M colour display, S40 OS with 3G functionality, 3 megapixel camera with autofocus, evolutionary Turn-to-mute technology and a large internal memory is rather basic compared to other similarly priced models from Nokia, but it is easy to forget, comparing the Arte to other handsets will be missing the point. It's just how things are in the small niche of mobile high fashion where Arte’s rub shoulders with the likes of Armani and Prada.
The Nokia 8800 Arte is ideal for those who prefer style over function, and for those who appreciate owning such exclusive and exquisitely made mobiles.
Available at all Incomm outlets.
Price - BND1,688-00.
Please use your DST Privilege cards for additonal discounts.

Titanium Black LG Shine released!

Feast your eyes on this. 

For those who prefer to be more discreet and look less "bling, bling", LG has released a stunner of a colour. Titanium Black LG Shine.

It is basically the same as the more flashy Shine (which I reviewed here) but the bad news is, if you want one, you'd have to fly to Europe to get it. It is not planned to be released here in Asia. C'mon LG, please don't pull another disappointment on us here, like Apple did (With the Asia launch of their iPhone scheduled for release in 2008). We all know "real men wear black".

My LG Shine Review

I'm back. My sincere apologies for the seemingly long silence. Its been such a fast and hectic past week for me. I'm in the process of house moving you see, so its packing, packing and more packing. AND, as if that's not happening enough for me, my department in the office is also in the moving; to another floor that is. There is just no escape is there from packing is there?

But, no matter, at least now I can take a breather and have some quiet time to complete my next review. I've been spending a couple of weeks with this next mobile. I have to say that my impressions have been very good. All the hype about this particular model, just like its older sister, the LG PRADA. Yup, that's right, I've got the LG Shine KU970.


Many years ago, people would usually associate LG with refrigerators, or air-conditioners, and later on, television sets.... but never in a million years would anyone have predicted that an LG mobile phone would enter the fray.

When I first heard of a LG phone, it was a good few years back. I really never gave them a second look. Nokia and Ericsson were the rulers of the mobile world back then. I remember thinking, "these LG phones look so boring and so samsung-esque". As the years went by, LG still stuck on in the market, churning out even more hideous flip phones than we would like to see.

Until recently that is....

Then came a phenomenon of a phone, the LG Chocolate. Featuring touchscreen technology, it overtook the world by storm. Suddenly, everyone was buying one; men, ladies and even teenagers. And who wouldn't be surprised? Here was a mobile, sexily dubbed the Chocolate. (Of course, I had my reservations about the actual use and feel of the Chocolate when I tried it out myself. It just wasn't for me I guess). And, as if that wasn't enough, they then released the Chocolate Platinum and Gold editions. Again, truly fashion statements with their (now) even more sexier looks.

LG has never stopped in their quest to better themselves against the likes of the Finnish and Swedish giants. Recently, it was the LG Prada, and now they have yet released another stunner edition; the LG Shine. Clearly seen on the box, it proudly proclaims its "Born to Shine". So does it? I believe it has. Read on..

Inbox


1 x LG Shine KU970 unit
1 x battery
1 x travel charger
1 x stereo headset
1 x USB cable
1 x LG screen protector
1 x LG mini lanyard (for shining your... Shine?)
1 x User guide & other reading material
1 x cd for LG suite

(Note: This KU970 is the 3G version. It has an identical twin, the KE970 with the same dimensions and look, but with 2 variances; the KU970's heavier by 120 grams and the menu software is slightly different. I did not have a KE970 to compare with during this review but if I do manage to get my hands on one, I will update this post)

First impressions
When I first heard about the Shine, my initial thoughts was that its meant for the ladies. With a mirror finish, could you blame me? But now, after having a unit to review, I have seen the light. The Shine could easily cater to both sexes. Also, being new to LG (The Shine's software is definitely different from the LG Prada I reviewed previously), I had to familiarise myself with the Shine. It didn't take me long though, I have to say. It was quite effortless. So if you're moving from a Nokia or a Sony Ericsson, you may like to know, you won't have any problems adjusting. Overall, I liked it.

Physical aspects / Build quality

• The LG Shine KU970 comes in only one colour; Silver. It has a slider form factor and immediate impressions of it is that it is slim. The screen itself, all 2.2 inches of it, has a mirror finish when the phone is not active. There are touches of chrome mostly around the edges, but the areas below the screen and the whole back have a silver brushed metal look. It looks VERY solid and classy. You also have to expect that a mobile with this build quality will no doubt attract fingerprints (which is probably why LG included a mini lanyard with a cleaning purpose). Its not a big issue.
• Under the screen, you will notice that there are 3 buttons, when in fact, there are 5. You'd be forgiven for not spotting this because its not very obvious. I only discovered it by mistake after messing about with the mobile. Also, the main issue of controversy on the Shine is the introduction of the Roller wheel in replacement of a 5-way navi keypad which most brands utilise, and even LG's Chocolate range. On one hand, its a breeze to use, on the other, its not as sensitive as some would like. This is one of my issues (albeit a minor one)
  

• On the front side as well, you will notice a front facing camera. Being a 3G-enabled unit, this is expected really.
• On the right side, you will see a dedicated camera button, a dedicated menu button (useful for when the slider is closed), the increase / decrease volume buttons and a tiny plastic flap which houses the mini usb / battery charging slot. Very neatly organised in my opinion.
• On the back, you will see a very clean setup, with the LG logo discreetly placed on the left, and the 2 mega pixel camera on the right. The camera is also clearly branded with Schneider KREUZNACH, same as the one on the LG Prada.
• You won't see anything else on the top, bottom or left sides of the Shine.
  
• Sliding up the Shine (there's a customizeable sound you'll hear and it also has a nice clunk sound. The sliding mechanism is good), you will immediately notice the keypad being very identical to the V3 look and feel. (Incidentally, the Nokia N76 I previously reviewed also sports this look. Perhaps brand manufacturers now are realising that slim phones must have this type of keypad?) The feedback is good when pressed and being LG, any press of ANY button you make on the Shine will emit a cute sound, just so you know you've pressed something. (you can switch this feature off).
  
• Holding the Shine in hand, I mentioned earlier, the weight is evenly distributed. It feels solid. Someone told me it reminds him of the Nokia 8800 series. Solid build and nice to hold in hand. (Yeah, I would know, I used to own one too)

Display / User Interface

• The Shine sports a TFT screen with 240 x 320 pixel resolution on its 2.2 inch screen. Overall, it looks sharp and colour contrast is good. The display is customizeable with choices to show variations of the clock and calendar on the standby screen. I have also taken some photo samples of the interface as examples.
  

Calls / Messaging

• Call quality, I won't bring up any issues here as it is clear and loud, as all mobiles should be really.
  
• Messaging wise, you get support for SMS, MMS and Email. Pretty standard so far. Ok, I have to touch on the feel of the messaging though. What really took me aback was how similar it felt to Nokia's T9! If you're a Nokia nut, try texting on the Shine. You'll know what I mean. Its so easy to text. Another plus for the Shine. (Note: The Chocolate series also have the same texting ease. I guess LG has copied Nokia on this?). Well, I sure ain't complaining.
  

Multimedia / Camera performance

• Music wise, this 3G version Shine does not support external memory slots, hence you wouldn't be able to store that many songs in the built-in 512MB memory. But compared to the KE970 version, this one sports a very basic music player. You won't even be able to choose numerous playlists from your song selections, just one. And, the quality of music isn't up to Sony Ericsson or Nokia standard. The included stereo headset is quite basic and there aren't any equaliser features either. So, keep in mind if you do expect to be plugged into the Shine, it just does what it needs to. Nothing more.
  
• Camera wise, overall I have to say I was impressed. Mainly because this 2 mega pixel Shine has autofocus! I truly believe this should be the bare minimum for any camera phone now. The lack of it just results in poor quality photos. So the Shine truly... shines (?) here. It may not be Sony Ericsson Cybershot beating, but LG stands its own here. You can choose a variety of photo sizes, effects, timers, sounds and even choose the front facing camera for shots. I've included a few samples. (Note: The Man Utd mouse pad isn't mine, just so you know)
  

What I liked about the Shine

• It feels solid and very nice in hand. The brushed metal material does wonders for it.
  
• Texting was a breeze (a big plus for us here in Brunei)
• The camera has autofocus!
• Has the basic features an average user would need, Organiser, bluetooth, couple of games.
• Battery life was good. Lasted me a few days with my usual messing about.
  

What I didn't like about the Shine

• This 3G version has no external memory slots.
• There aren't any Flight modes which you find common in other brands. Meaning, this Shine version won't be your next mp3 player should you plan to do any travelling.
  
• The roller wheel on the front could be improved. At certain times, you may need to "roll" it a bit faster to move to the next item in the menu. But, you may just need some adjusting to that's all.
  
• No office documents support? (The KE970 has this feature though)
  

d3xlabs recommendations
A few years back, if you told me to go buy an LG mobile, I would have laughed at you and would probably strongly discourage you to make such a foolish choice. Nowadays, I would say otherwise. LG is becoming a force to reckon with and I personally know people who have started to consider it in their buying options. The Shine has really taken me by surprise and after spending time with it (no, I did not use the mirror feature if you must know), I have to say that I liked it. Alot. I'll even go as far as saying that you should consider it if your choices are between Nokia, Sony Ericsson or Motorola. But, if you're not into the 3G scene, then try the KE970 version. From what I've read, it promises to be slightly better. Overall, I agree, this series is definitely Born to Shine.

My LG Shine KU970 rating - 4.2 stars
Selling price - BND638-00
At all Incomm outlets, Brunei's authorised agents for LG.
(Use your DST privilege card for better discounts)