New Verizon Wireless Phone Is Truly 'Versa-tile'

On March 1, Verizon Wireless will start selling its latest offering, the LG VX9600, also known as the Versa. The phone offers the multimedia features many have come to expect from new models, including a 3-inch touch screen with tactile feedback. Small in size, the Versa is comfortable to hold and weighs in at a light 3.5 ounces.

The screen of the Versa is bright and colorful, and main menu icons are large enough for most-size fingers although some secondary buttons, such as the back arrow in the upper left, might be a little more difficult to press for those with larger hands. Features include a 2-megapixel camera for still pictures and video recording; a video player supporting WMV, MP4, 3GP and 3G2; text, e-mail and instant messaging; a 1,000-entry phonebook; VZ Navigator (for an additional monthly charge); and Mobile-Web using Verizon's EV-DO Rev. The Versa also comes with a music player capable of playing MP3, WMA and unprotected AAC/AAC+ formats.

Luckily (or thoughtfully), LG includes a classy looking stylus for those who can't— or choose not to—press on the touch screen directly. Although small, the stylus is wrapped in simulated leather, making it easy for everyone to grasp. By not touching the screen, the tactile feeling is lost—but that is only a minor concession.

If typing while held in the portrait orientation, the Versa displays a "standard" telephone keypad layout with large, easy-to-see and easy-to-use buttons.

When turned to landscape orientation, in either direction, the phone's accelerometer takes over, smoothly rotating the display to present a QWERTY keyboard. In our preliminary testing, the accelerometer worked quickly and flawlessly. We also liked the way the on-screen display actually spins into position instead of flashing from one to the other.

Aside from being easy to use and stylish, the Versa gets its nickname from the versatility that its modular design allows. For those who prefer a physical keyboard, one is included with the phone.

By simply removing the phone's rear battery cover, the Versa easily snaps into this module, offering a more substantial keyboard for typing longer, or numerous, messages. In the future, LG will be offering additional modules for sale, including stereo speakers and a rumored game controller.

By default, the Versa offers three different standby mode idle screens. Titled Favorites, Shortcuts and Media, each one displays icons for features relative to the specific screen. When the keyboard is attached, the pictured fourth module idle screen is available, giving easy access to keyboard-based applications. Notice too, the subtle backlighting of the keyboard.

The keyboard module also closes to become a protective case, essentially turning the Versa into a clamshell phone. A small LCD shows pertinent information and, with an opening for the earpiece as well as an exposed microphone, calls can be taken without opening the cover using the lighted buttons at the bottom.





Our first impression of the LG Versa leaves us eager to explore the phone in more detail. We're also interested in seeing what other modules and applications both LG and third-party developers come up with in the future.





Look for a full review soon on ChannelWeb.com