LG Arena

Editor's Review of the Arena

Weighing 105 grams and measuring 105.9 x 55.3 x 12 millimetres, the KM 900 Arena joins LG's touchscreen handset models that include the LG KF900 Prada II and the LG KC910 Renoir. LG endowed the KM900 Arena with a wide touch screen that measures 76.2 millimetres and displays 262,000 colours over a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. It is an innovative mobile phone that features the S class 3D interface to help users navigate the screen icons and menus comfortably and easily. The display screen comes in a 3D-styled user interface that resembles an on-screen rotating cube. Its distinct external features are complemented by its MP3 and polyphonic ringtone selections that users can opt to utilise according to their preference.

The LG Arena is a triband phone that supports GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900 networks, as well as HSDPA 2100. The handset is ideal for worldwide roaming, although its network reach is dependent upon its users' network provider.

Being a 3G HSDPA-enabled mobile phone, it is expected to multitask with its full range of features. It allows users to connect to the World Wide Web through a WAP XHTML browser. It also supports Wi-Fi technology, enabling Internet connectivity via designated hotspots for users on the move. Similarly, sharing or transferring of files with compatible devices such as laptops, computers or printers is possible using the USB-supporting feature of the handset, as well as its Bluetooth connectivity for wireless connections. Because the mobile phone works on EDGE and GPRS technologies, downloading of files is expected to come in faster and more efficient rates.

The LG Arena allows users to compose, send and receive text or SMS, and multimedia or MMS messages. With the Internet connectivity that it offers, the handset also enables users to access their electronic inbox right on the mobile phone. For quick chats with their friends or family, users can opt to communicate through instant messaging.

The mobile phone can instantly turn into a portable assistant with its set of organiser features that promote proper scheduling and time management. The mobile phone comes with a phonebook for an organised list of contacts, a calendar, a clock, an alarm clock, a calculator, a stopwatch and a document viewer that supports all popular document and file formats such as .doc, .xls, .ppt and .pdf. Receiving or making calls with the KM900 arena is also a breeze with the built-in handsfree speaker that comes with the handset's starter kit.

The LG Arena does not stop at offering business-focused features to its users. It also aims to take mobile phone entertainment to a higher level with its line-up of top features that delight photo and video lovers, music hobbyists and gamers. The handset features an integrated 5-Megapixel camera, which is complete with flash to enhance otherwise dull backgrounds. It is also equipped with the auto focus feature to precisely capture subjects. Pictures taken using the KM900 Arena camera can be stored in the pre-installed photo album. The integrated camera can also record moving footages that can be stored in the video gallery. It also plays videos in MPEG4 and DivX formats. A second camera is also pre-installed on the handset for 3G video call purposes. Simply pressing the dedicated key allows users to enjoy the camera and its features.

Avid music listeners can enjoy the music player that the mobile phone offers. The handset's player supports MP3 and AAC sound formats. It also comes with an FM radio that allows users to listen to music on-air.

To the delight of mobile phone gaming enthusiasts, the LG Arena can turn into a gaming zone anytime. The handset supports downloading of games in Java format.

The handset allows users to store photos, videos images, contacts, tracks, games and other files in its 8-Gigabyte internal memory. The storage capacity can be expanded to support a maximum of 16 Gigabytes through a MicroSD memory card. Users can enjoy the mobile phone for four hours in Talk Time. It can stay on standby mode for 300 hours when fully charged.

Some users point out that the LG Arena disappoints with its lack of better sound technologies. On a general note, however, users contend that integrated camera gives it an edge over other advanced handset models. Overall, users are in awe of the mobile phone's stunning interface and powerful lineup of functionalities.