LG Shine Special Editions and U970 Features
The LG Shine established itself as a stylish entry in the mobile market, blending a sleek aesthetic with functional design. While the standard model gained popularity, LG Electronics expanded the line with several high-profile special editions and the feature-enhanced U970 model, catering to collectors and users seeking premium materials.
Key Facts
- Iron Man Edition: The rarest version, with only 21 units produced.
- U970 Enhancements: Added HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) and a front-facing camera.
- Camera Quality: The U970 features a Schneider-Kreuznach certified auto-focus camera.
- Design: The series is characterized by full metal bodies and mirror-finish screens.
The LG Shine Special Editions
LG released a variety of limited editions that maintained the original Shine's functionality while introducing luxury finishes and celebrity collaborations.
Gold Edition
Launched in July 2007, the Gold Edition offered the same technical specifications as the original LG Shine but featured a shiny gold color. Due to the premium finish, this version carried a higher price tag than the standard edition.
Iron Man Edition
In May 2008, LG released an extremely limited Iron Man edition. Only 21 of these devices were manufactured. This collector's item featured a striking red case, gold-plated highlights, and a battery cover made of 18k gold.
Titanium Black Edition
Unveiled in July 2008, the Titanium Black edition gave the full metal-bodied phone a makeover, replacing the standard look with a sophisticated dark metallic grey finish.
Andy Lau Edition
Launched in August 2008, the "Shine x Andy Lau Special Edition" celebrated the famous actor. This version is distinguished by a motto inscribed in Andy Lau's own handwriting on the back of the phone: "Heaven is where the kind hearted people are."
The LG U970: Technical Specifications
The U970 serves as a variation of the Shine design with specific hardware modifications. It retains the stainless steel full metal body and a half-mirror screen, which creates a mirror effect when the display is powered off.
The U970 introduces HSDPA, a data transfer protocol that allows for faster mobile internet speeds, and a front-facing camera specifically for videoconferencing. However, this model removes the microSD card reader found in other versions.
Camera and Controls
The device includes a dedicated button for photography, allowing it to function as a standalone camera. It captures images at a maximum resolution of 1600x1200 px and utilizes an auto-focus system certified by Schneider-Kreuznach, a renowned optics manufacturer.
For navigation, the phone features a multi-functional scroll key located on the exterior when the device is closed.
Charging and Connectivity
The U970 uses a proprietary USB cable for charging. Because the phone possesses only one port, users cannot use the included headset while the device is charging, although the phone remains fully operational during the charging process.
| Edition/Model | Key Feature | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Edition | Shiny gold finish; higher price | July 2007 |
| Iron Man Edition | 18k gold battery cover; 21 units | May 2008 |
| Titanium Black | Dark metallic grey body | July 2008 |
| Andy Lau Edition | Handwritten motto on back | August 2008 |
| U970 | HSDPA and front camera; no microSD | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Iron Man Edition LG Shines were made?
Only 21 units of the Iron Man edition were produced, making it an extremely limited release.
What are the main differences between the U970 and the standard LG Shine?
The U970 adds HSDPA and a front camera for videoconferencing, but it removes the microSD card reader.
What is the maximum photo resolution of the U970?
The U970 can take pictures with a maximum resolution of 1600x1200 px.
Can I use a headset while charging the LG U970?
No, because the phone has only one port, it is impossible to use the included headset while the proprietary USB charging cable is plugged in.
What makes the Andy Lau Edition unique?
The Andy Lau Edition features the actor's own handwriting on the back of the phone, stating: "Heaven is where the kind hearted people are."