LG launched the LG G3 via a live stream on YouTube. However, most of the key specifications had been revealed prior to the launch.

Now that all the juicy info is officially out in the open, below are my brief views. First the key specs –

Android 4.4 KitKat
2.46 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 AC
5.5″ 1440 x 2560 (534 PPI) Quad HD screen
13 MP main camera with laser autofocus module / 2.1 front-facing camera
2 GB RAM / 16 GB storage / 128 GB micro SD support
LTE / Wi-Fi / NFC / BT 4.0 / SlimPort / USB Host & OTG
146.3 x 74.6 x 8.9 mm
3,000 mAh battery – removable
Wireless Charging
Shine Gold & Titanium colours
Price £499

The G3 will have in some markets a 32gb/3gb ram. What I cannot understand is why LG just didn’t opt for a 32gb/3gb ram with wireless charging model as the defacto standard. That really would have made it a killer device. Judging by last years model, the G2 this only became available in the UK as a 16gb version.

The standard out features are the Quad HD 534ppi screen which covers nearly 77% of the front of the device, the 1 watt loudspeaker and the 13mp camera with laser focus and OIS.The camera also has phase detection something Samsung boasted about on the S5. Except LG add laser detection and OIS. So in theory the LG G3 should take good photos in all conditions especially with its F/2.0 and 1/3″ sensor. Having expandable memory via a micro SD card for media is useful too. And whilst the phone looks metal, it is plastic.

On the software front LG have opted for a flatter interface, with Smart Notice and Keyboard along with some other software tricks. With all these software enhancements, the proof is in the pudding. But it does look promising. Smart Notice is rather nifty as it can recommend deleting apps you havent used for in the last 2 months for example. Also LG has removed a number of duplicated apps and even give you the option of uninstalling pre installed apps. And LG has its own health apps.

Accessories. LG have not forgotten this area. They will have a clever QuickCircle Case (this displays your 6 most used apps), Harman Kardon headphones and Wireless charger. These all look superb.

The last stand out feature is the price. The 16gb model will cost £499.

So are there any negatives? It is a solid offering with many USP’s like the Quad HD screen, the 1 watt speaker and solid camera. If you are lucky enough to have the 32gb model then it becomes even more attractive. However, it is as big as the Sony Xperia Z2 and that is just too big for many people. It also is not dust and waterproof, does not have a finger print scanner and heart rate sensor. I know they are features not everyone wants, but specs make it easier to sell to Joe Blogs.

Overall I think LG did a great job improving the phone over and above the G2.

So if you want to preorder, head over to Clove Technology http://www.clove.co.uk/lg-g3