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"Vodafone and LG Electronics today announced the launch of the LG GM750, a new Windows® phone based on Windows Mobile 6.5 available Oct. 6. Fully loaded with fun, easy-to-use features and services that help people take control of their lives thanks to fast Internet browsing, access to personal and work e-mail accounts, and calendar synchronization, the GM750 packs a lot into its sleek, slim form."

In a pair of related statements recently released, handset maker LG has announced plans to produce Windows Phones for the EU market, available in some areas around October 6. Always nice to see more choice, and LG has been around the phone game long enough now that one hopes they will produce a solid product for WM fans.

"The new arrivals include the world-first launch of the LG GM730f - which is upgradeable to Windows Mobile® 6.5 later this year - as well as the LG Xenon, both exclusive to Telstra. Two further new additions include the TelstraOne Experience user interface from Sony Ericsson and the HTC Touch Pro2 smartphone for professionals."

Telstra has announced that the HTC Touch Pro2 and LG GM730f will be available from July 21 and July 28 respectively. You probably already know all there is to know about the Touch Pro2. The GM730f, on the other hand, is somewhat of an unknown. It boasts 7.2 Mbps HSDPA support (though, still well under the Next G network's current speed of 21 Mbps, and the eventual 42 Mbps slated for later in the year), a 3.0-inch touch screen, a 5.0-megapixel camera, LG's S-Class UI, and upgradeability to Windows Mobile 6.5. It'll set you back $0 on a plan over 24 months, or $979 AUD outright.

"This brassy little number is the LG "Monaco," which is apparently also known as the "Pico" to some folks; what it'll eventually be called at retail is anyone's guess, but the big news is the feature list: 3.6Mbps HSDPA, a 3.2-inch WVGA display, 5 megapixel AF cam, microSD expansion, an add-on pico projector of some sort, and Windows Mobile 7."

Although destined for AT&T, you might have to wait a while for the Monaco to turn up - unless they slap WM6.5 on this. Engadget also mentions that the Monaco doesn't fulfill WM7 hardware criteria due to the slightly smaller screen, so I wonder if we really will see this running WM7. I admit to being a little unexcited by the known specs or the design, though I imagine both will be subject to change. If this had been released a year ago it might have been top dog, but now (sans projector) it looks strictly middle of the road.

"In exchange for picking Microsoft, LG will work closely to better integrate the operating system with devices, which has proven to be a problem for Windows Mobile in the past. LG has created a new user interface called S-Class, which makes Windows Mobile more modern and touch-screen friendly. The companies will create joint teams for research and development, and partner on marketing efforts."

Hot on the heels of the launch of LG's new WM phones, LG and Microsoft have tied the knot. I applaud this move, as it's a big vote of confidence and can be nothing but good for Windows Mobile. On the other hand from a corporate perspective, LG is taking a bit of a risk, as they're putting most of their eggs in one basket. I can't imagine this making their shareholders very happy. Reading between the lines, it looks like Microsoft is looking to get more involved on the hardware side, which is about time I'd say! Read on for the full press release. Read more...

HTC isn't the only one showing off new devices today. LG has its own pair, too. The Eigen (GM730), pictured above, runs Windows Mobile 6.1.4 Professional and packs an MSM7201a 528MHz processor, 128MB RAM, and 256MB ROM. There's also quad-band GPRS/EDGE and UMTS connectivity, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS, a G-sensor, an FM radio, a 5.0-megapixel camera, a microSDHC slot, and a 240 x 400 (WQVGA) touch screen to seal the deal. It's definitely not as impressive the Touch Diamond2 or Touch Pro2, but it's not too shabby, either.

Jump the break for more shots of the Eigen (GM730), as well as a look at the HQ.

Read more...

"Microsoft Corp. and South Korea's LG Electronics Inc on Monday said they had signed a preliminary agreement on strategic collaboration in mobile technology. "The agreement ensures continued strategic collaboration in R&D, marketing, applications, and services in the field of converged mobile devices," LG said in a statement."

flickr: Orin Optiglot

So Koo was like "Hey Steve, Lets Collaborate" and Steve was like "OK". Seriously, it's never bad to see agreements like this, as they hopefully mean more market saturation for Windows Mobile and, in turn, cooler devices for us. But really, when was the last time you saw something directly come of these agreements? Too bad the announcement is public but the results rarely traced back to it.

"On the first of July, California residents will no longer be allowed to talk on the phone while driving, without using hands-free accessories. This is the reason, tomorrow LG Mobile will give away more than a thousand Bluetooth headsets at a special event. It will be hosted in Los Angeles, at the Petersen Automotive Museum (6060 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036) from 11AM to 1:30PM (or while supplies last) on the 19th of June. All are welcome."



First off, I apologize we're posting this so late. I didn't catch wind of this story until 20 minutes ago. Now on for the goodies! LG is showing a lot of love to cellular phone users in Los Angeles, CA. As the post says above you LG will be giving away 1000+ Bluetooth headsets between the hours of 11AM and 1:30PM PST on Thursday June 19th, 2008. If you live in the Los Angeles area you should take an early lunch tomorrow and treat yourself to little gift because nothing says fun like brand spanking new electronics before lunch! To get your free headset you have to go to the following address:

Petersen Automotive Museum [map]
6060 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90036

"LG is challenging you to come up with the next great phone. You could win: money, LG LCDs, new phones and home entertainment prizes. So tear off a sheet in your sketch book or fire up your favorite design app and channel your creativity toward the next LG Phone. You have until 4/30/08."



LG hasn't offered a great deal in the Windows Mobile space, but that could change with a bit of ingenuity. Concoct something great, and you could win big. Get crackin' - only eight days to go!