Introduction
The LG V10, launched in October 2015, marked a significant milestone in smartphone innovation. Designed as a premium flagship, the device targeted multimedia enthusiasts with its dual-screen setup, advanced audio capabilities, and robust build. It was one of the first smartphones to cater explicitly to content creators, making it stand out in a crowded market.
Design and Build Quality
The LG V10 showcased a rugged yet premium design. Its stainless steel frame, combined with a Dura Skin back panel, offered excellent durability and resistance to drops and scratches. The device measured 159.6 x 79.3 x 8.6 mm and weighed 192 grams, giving it a substantial and sturdy feel. It was available in multiple color options, including Space Black, Luxe White, Modern Beige, Ocean Blue, and Opal Blue.
Display
The phone featured a 5.7-inch QHD IPS Quantum Display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels (~515 PPI), delivering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. A unique secondary display, located above the main screen, provided quick access to notifications, shortcuts, and controls without interrupting the primary screen experience. This innovation catered to multitaskers and improved productivity.
Performance
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor, the LG V10 delivered reliable performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. The chipset was coupled with 4GB of LPDDR3 RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking. It offered 64GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2TB via a microSD card, which was exceptional for its time. It ran on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop out of the box, with an upgrade path to Android 7.0 Nougat.
Camera System
The LG V10 excelled in photography and videography.
- Rear Camera: A 16 MP primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, optical image stabilization (OIS), laser autofocus, and manual controls. It allowed users to shoot professional-grade photos and videos, including 4K at 30fps.
- Front Camera: Dual 5 MP front-facing cameras with standard and wide-angle lenses enabled users to take group selfies and enhance video calls.
The camera app included a robust manual mode for video, giving creators control over settings like shutter speed, ISO, and white balance.
Battery and Charging
The device housed a removable 3000 mAh battery, a feature appreciated by users who preferred to carry spares. It supported Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0, enabling up to 50% charge in just 40 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime.
Audio and Multimedia Features
The LG V10 was a pioneer in audio quality, featuring a 32-bit Hi-Fi DAC for an immersive sound experience. The device catered to audiophiles, offering superior audio playback and recording capabilities with minimal distortion.
Connectivity and Features
The LG V10 included comprehensive connectivity options:
- 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, and Bluetooth 4.1.
- NFC support and a USB 2.0 Type-B port.
- A rear-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for secure and quick access.
Pricing and Availability
At launch, the LG V10 was priced at around $700 globally and ₹49,999 in India, reflecting its premium positioning. Over time, the price has significantly decreased:
- India: Refurbished units are available for ₹10,000–₹15,000 on platforms like Flipkart and Amazon.
- United States: In the secondary market, prices range from $80 to $120, depending on the device’s condition.
- Offline Stores: Some local sellers and offline stores still stock the LG V10, primarily as refurbished or pre-owned units, with similar pricing to online platforms.
Conclusion
The LG V10 was a bold and innovative offering that catered to creative professionals and multimedia enthusiasts. Its dual-screen design, manual video controls, high-quality audio features, and robust build made it a standout choice in 2015. While it may not compete with today’s smartphones in raw performance, it remains a unique and nostalgic device for those who value its pioneering features.
