LG G5 review: a modular masterpiece

Technology that not only matches the competition, but in some ways bests it.

This year’s flagships are coming thick and fast; we have Samsung and the Galaxy S7 range, HTC with the latest 10 model, and, of course, LG with a new G series handset.

The problem consumers face is that top tier smartphones offer something very similar to the next, leaving them faced with that awkward realisation of not really knowing which one to go for.

Well, LG has decided that 2016 is the year to ease our minds and create something that is both different and very promising.

Introducing LG G5, the first mainstream modular smartphone…

Design

LG G5 is a departure from the usual design for the Korean giant, complete with rounded edges, an all-metal build and no visible antenna lines, which all combine to create a smooth and sleek handset that offers the user a real premium smartphone experience.

The rear of the phone is home to a unique dual camera setup and fingerprint reader, which also serves as a physical power key.

The front of the handset sports a stunning 5.3-inch QHD Quantum IPS display, with a PPI of 554 and always-on technology, so the time and your notifications are readily available at a glance.

This stunning display is protected by Gorilla Glass 4 and features a unique curve at the top of the handset that LG has dubbed ‘3D Arc’.

The bottom of the handset is where LG houses its trump card… in that it can be ejected and replaced with modules.

Modular Technology

The modular element of the G5 is where LG’s flagship trumps the competition; press a button on the side of the handset and the base pops out. This allows users to either slap in a fresh battery or upgrade the hardware by adding additional modules, which LG call ‘Friends’.

These extra bits of kit give you the option to turn your device into something a little bit more special. At present, LG has two available, the first being a Cam Plus grip that adds extra power, physical buttons, improved grip and a better overall camera UX.

The other module is one created in partnership with B&O – the experts in audio manufacturing. This mod features a built in 32bit DAC, ultimately resulting in an amazing audio experience from the G5.

More are due in the near-future and with the creativity of the human mind, who knows what fantastic products are in store for LG G5.