LG's U8360, a curious example of mobile phone development- not a good purchase today. (LG U8360)

Member Name: Krondonian

Product:	LG U8360
Date:	16/05/09 (17 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Incredibile resilience; handy camera design

Disadvantages: Huge size; rubbish detachable antenna; basic functionality

I have used LG's U8360 for about a year now, and I am afraid I can't recommend it.

Its basic functionality is what is expected from any modern phone. Texting, calls, camera, video, audio playback and Bluetooth are all included, and work fine.

The 1.3 megapixel camera is passable, as is the video recorder, providing you are in good lighting. Do not expect to be taking any form of dull shots though- it's hardly an all rounder. All the media features are present, but seem lacking in comparison to most new phones. Audio quality is passable, but not suitable to replace a dedicated audio player.

In terms of the main uses, the predictive texting system works fine, but the flat keys make quick texting a difficult exercise. Not recommended for heavy texters used to tactile feedback from their phones. Calling works, with a helpful record option and good signal.

The only way to get good signal however is with the detachable antenna. This seems like a relic from the days of brick sized walkie-talkie sized mobiles compared to the ergonomic form of modern phones. Around two months ago my antenna managed to unscrew itself in my pocket and promptly was lost. Currently the reception is atrocious, even on o2- whose signal in my location is consistently excellent. Not a wise design decision.

Indeed, the design for all aspects of the phone is quite bizarre. The flash memory and headphone slots are covered with an all too easy to snap off cover. The handy one click photo mode button on the side also takes photos, often resulting in a huge reel of snaps of the inside of my pocket.
Closing the phone automatically ends calls, so if you happen to be closing it as someone rings it seems like you have decided to instantly hang up on them. The overall size is equivalent to a remote control when opened. It has a unique charger and earphones, meaning if they're lost you'll likely end up trawling Ebay for the precise replacement. Not good.

What makes these flaws doubly annoying is that there are also some fantastic design decisions too. The swivelling camera on the hinge allows you to record in front or behind you with a quick rotation, automatically flipping the picture to be the correct orientation- perfect as a replacement for a mirror, or for taking the ever popular photographs of yourself for various display pictures. It's also the most robust mobile I have ever used- taking throwing, freezing, soaking, trampolining and being stamped on in its stride. (All of which I have inadvertently tested at some point or another).

Today though, I cannot recommend it. Offering lesser functionality than the average £15 phone you pick up in a supermarket in a far uglier and weightier form means this once top line 3G phone has had its day.

Summary: An interesting phone that should have it's best aspects ripped off. Not a good buy as it is though.

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