14 DAY TRIAL // As expected, Koodo Mobile and TELUS have just introduced the entry-level LG Optimus Chat Android smartphone.
Although the phone was unveiled more than two weeks ago, it seems that both carriers delayed the phone's debut for unknown reasons.
Depending on the preferred carrier, LG Optimus Chat can be obtained for free from TELUS with a new three-year agreement, or it can be purchased for $50 with Koodo's Tab.
Additionally, customers who wish to avoid being tied down by a long-term agreement can buy the Optimus Chat for $200 off-contract from either of the two carriers.
Even though the Optimus Chat is not so popular as the multi-awarded LG Optimus One low-budget Android-powered smartphone, it still is an interesting alternative especially given its cheap price.
As suggested by the slide-out full QWERTY keyboard, the smartphone is aimed at heavy texters, hence its name – Optimus Chat.
The device is the perfect tool for Facebook addicts who wish to try Google's Android platform and still be able to experience smooth messaging and social networking services.
The smartphone bears a slide form factor and runs Android 2.2 (Froyo) platform with Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
Furthermore, the phone comes with a small 2.8-inch TFT touchscreen with 262k colors support, 320 x 480 pixels resolution, accelerometer sensor for UI auto-rotate and touch-sensitive controls.
The phone only packs 140 MB of internal memory, but customers can expand the storage space via the included microSD card slot, up to 32GB.
When it comes to connectivity, the Optimus Chat offers a full array of options, including HSPA (7.2 Mbps) and HSUPA (5.76 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g and Bluetooth connectivity, microUSB and GPS with A-GPS support.
The Optimus Chat is powered by a long lasting 1300 mAh Li-Ion battery, which is rated by the manufacturer for up to 440 hours of standby time or up to 5 hours of talk time.