It is common knowledge that LG has participated in some unusual trends and bandwagons. The Optimus 3D and the Thrill 4G are one example where, in 2011, LG tried the fleeting 3D smartphone trend. In 2016, they release another smartphone that was said to be inspired by the ill-fated Project Ara by Google, the G5 – one of the world’s few modular smartphones. It appears that, once again, LG is attempting to impress the technological world with its latest Wing 5G. This release is coming during the revival of dual-screen phones and the rise of foldable screens.
Many have commented on this release being one of the most unusual dual-display smartphones on the market. However, it among the cheapest of its kind, being only around $1000.
Is this LG reviving their interest in strange trends?
The Idea Behind the Phone:
Basically, when the ‘wings’ of the phone are closed, it is meant to look like every other large smartphone out there. On the front, not only does it have a 32-megapixel pop-up camera, but it has a 6.8-inch P-OLED FullVision screen that runs at 2460×1080.
At first glance, you assume there is the now-standard triple-camera system, including the 64-megapixel camera (f/1.8) and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide camera (f/1.9). However, there is actually a second 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera. This feature only becomes apparent once you have opened the phone.
What makes this phone even stranger? Well, it is not a normal folding screen, such as the Surface Duo or the Galaxy Z Fold 2 where you unfold the wings. Instead, you actually slide the main screen around to a landscape orientation, revealing the smaller, 3.9-inch screen that’s hidden beneath it that runs at a 1240×1080.
This feature allows you to use two apps at once – run your favourite YouTube video or Netflix show all while scrolling through Instagram or using Google Maps.
In addition to this, specifically tailored apps will have the ability to use both displays at once. For example, on the larger screen, LG’s Gallery app will show you pictures in finer detail while the smaller screen can hold editing controls or even thumbnails of other photographs on your device.
LG’s messaging app all allows you to spin the device around to view the message thread on the small screen while typing a response of the larger screen.
The Camera:
In use, it is easy to understand the dual-screen function while using the phones second ultra-wide camera. Ever wanted an on-screen joystick for tilt or to plan your shots all from your smartphone? Well, the Wing is at once a camera and a gimbal. Though we cannot yet compare this gimbal feature of the LG Wing 5G to a standalone product, LG has announced that it includes a cluster of stabilisers that act to smooth your footage.
The gimbal feature is inbuilt sideways into the Wing, meaning the 12-megapixel ultra-wide sensor can only be used when the smartphone is in the gimbal mode.
Controversy
The stuff that is powering LG’s new smartphone is extremely dull – despite how unconventional the phone actually is in comparison to other phones being released this year. 8GB of Ram and 256GB of storage are paired with a Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 765G chipset. In comparison to the Galaxy Z Fold 2, the Wing accepts up to 2TB microSD cards as well.
With the support if sub-6 networks and mmWave, the device is 5G, as described by the title. This broad network support will allow the Wing compatibility will all of the United States major wireless carriers. T-Mobile and AT&T will follow shortly after Verizon carries it.
Possibly the strangest thing about this phone is that it does not have a headphone jack. It was removed to make room for 5G and the movable display.
Despite having no headphone jack, LG has created a good smartphone, no matter how ridiculous the original idea may seem.
To calm your worries, LG has stated that thermoplastic polyoxymethylene coats the back of the main screen to ensure it does not scratch the smaller screen when flicking open. Testing also revealed that the screen should last for 200,000 swivels – or more.
The LG Wing 5G might just be ridiculous enough to be a great device – its design allows for a normal smartphone experience all while providing new flexibility when you need it. This still leaves questions of app support and ease of use overall, however.
LG has announced that they intend to stay committed to the project – even if the Wing is a total dud in the market. Which, if we’re being honest, is a possibility. However, fi LG sticks to their word, it is also a possibility that this phone could be a win for everyone.
