LG has announced a new version of its G6 flagship smartphone that includes a larger storage capacity, improved audio capabilities and new software features. The updated phone brings iterative changes to the original and will be available worldwide.
The imaginatively named "G6+" was announced by LG today. The phone retains the same 5.7-inch QHD+ display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, 4GB of RAM and 13MP dual rear-camera as the first G6. Internal changes have been limited to a significantly increased storage capacity (up to 128GB from 32GB or 64GB) and a new 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC.
The DAC should deliver superior audio performance with subtler details and clearer bass. Since audio quality is always subjective, the presence of the DAC won’t necessarily be noticed by consumers. Audiophiles will be pleased by the addition though. LG will also be bundling a pair of B&O PLAY earphones in the box to fully utilise the capabilities of the DAC.
Beyond the minor changes to the phone's hardware, LG is introducing two new colours for the G6+. These are Optical Marine Blue and Optical Terra Gold. The "optical" portion of the name refers to the lenticular film surface. According to LG, this creates a "mesmeric optical effect" for a distinctive look and feel.
LG has developed a comprehensive set of software features to accompany the new phone. Layered on top of Android 7.0 Nougat, the company has updated its LG UX 6.0 Android skin to include new capabilities that expand on what's already possible with the G6.
A new "Face Print" biometric authentication technique will let you unlock the phone by holding it in front of your face. There's no need to press any buttons and the procedure takes "less than one second." LG claims the system is "more convenient" than rival facial recognition systems. It hasn't detailed how it works or provided images of the technology in action.
In the camera app, LG has added a Covered Lens warning that alerts you if your finger is encroaching on the frame. The company said that the wide-angle lens of the G6 has led some users to inadvertently include their hand in photos.
The phone will now display a warning if an obstruction is detected. LG hasn't said whether this can be disabled or if it will prevent the shutter from firing. In some instances, the covered lens warning could lead to you missing a shot entirely if it actively prevents you from taking photos.
LG said the new capabilities will help to differentiate the G6 against the crowd. The already popular device will now stand out more on store shelves, including double the storage capacity, a "turbocharged" DAC and an eye-catching revised visual finish.
"LG's G series has always been about offering innovation and technology that we believe will appeal to as many customers as possible," said Juno Cho, president of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "By expanding the G6 lineup with differentiating features and colors, consumers will have even more options to consider when shopping for a new smartphone."
The LG G6+ will go on sale later this year in a range of regions worldwide where the G6 is currently sold. Pricing and exact availability hasn't yet been announced. LG's UX software update will also land in the coming months. It'll be preinstalled on the G6+ and available as an over-the-air update on existing G6 devices.
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