Telstra will launch the LG Optimus Android smartphone in Australia tomorrow, finally bringing a mid-market Android phone to Australia below the HTC Desire flagship device for Telstra.
The LG Optimus is described as being designed with “first-time smartphone owners in mind”, as a result this phone is not for the cutting edge consumer, but offers adequate performance for a casual user looking to buy their first Android smartphone. The LG Optimus will first be released on the Telstra Next G network, before possibly being picked up by rival carriers.
Telstra Executive Director, Mobility Products, Ross Fielding highlighted the LG Optimus as an affordable way to join the Google Android ecosystem.
“With Google Android-powered smartphones growing in popularity, the LG Optimus provides customers with an ultra-affordable way to get in on the action.” he said.
“It’s the perfect phone to access Google services like Google Calendar, YouTube and Gmail from. For instance, customers can access up-to-the-minute emails and calendar information that’s synched with their Google web account to stay up to date on the go.”
“Customers will also be able to personalise their LG Optimus by selecting from thousands of apps from the Android Market – including games, transport apps, podcast and music apps, fitness apps and news services. There are now more than 60,000 Android apps to choose from.” Mr Fielding said.
LG Optimus is available for $0 upfront on Telstra’s $49 Cap Plan, which includes 200MB of data each month and up to $400 worth of standard national calls, SMS and MMS for 24 months (minimum total price $1176). It can also be purchased outright for a RRP of $504.
