We preview the latest releases: LG flip phone (pictured), Panasonic shockproof laptop and Sony widescreen TV
LG U8360
What is it? Flip phone with video function
Price: Varies according to tariff
A relatively new name to the Irish mobile market, LG has teamed up with 3 to offer its U8360 flip phone as part of an exclusive agreement. Available in black or silver, the handset has two colour screens, a rotating 1.3-megapixel camera, speakerphone, video-calling capability, USB connectivity, 175 hours of standby time and 200 minutes of talk time on a single charge. It comes with 32MB of internal memory for downloading and storing content on the device, such as games or full-length audio and video clips.
An optional 1GB external memory card has capacity for up to 240 songs. Pricing for the U8360 starts at €9 by buying directly from 3 on the €100 monthly tariff, up to €129 from retail stores on the €25 per month fee rate.
Panasonic Toughbook CF-74
What is it? Durable notebook PC
Price: TBC
As the name suggests, Panasonic’s Toughbook CF-74 is built to withstand the shocks and falls that come with outdoor use. The system has a robust external magnesium alloy casing and splashproof keyboard and touchpad and is protected against drops, liquid spills and falling objects.
The CF-74 is fitted with a practical carrying handle to prevent drops and the hard drive is protected against shocks and vibrations, even falls from a height of up to 30cm, Panasonic claims.The laptop runs the new 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo Processor T2400 and comes with 512MB RAM and a 80GB hard drive. It can also be supplied with integrated wireless LAN, access over a GPRS mobile phone connection and Bluetooth, which can all run simultaneously. Battery runtime is said to be up to eight hours.
Sony Bravia S-Series
What is it? Widescreen TV
Price: starts at €1,449
SONY’S new Bravia LCD TV line-up is said to offer improved wide-angle viewing to a full 178 degrees, maintaining the proper colour saturation even when the picture is seen from the side. Screen clarity is also helped by a high contrast ratio of 1,300:1.
Sony claims the TV’s real-time processing engine improves the picture quality as it is being transferred to the screen. Integrated stereo speakers use SRS TruSurround XT technology, which effectively simulates multi-channel surround sound without external speakers. The range, which is HDTV-ready, includes 26-inch, 32-inch, 40-inch and 46-inch screen models and the recommended retail prices are €1,449, €1,899, €2,949 and €4,399.
By Gordon Smith
