LG G Flex smartphone

Photo: LG전자 via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

LG

LG G Flex

November 2013 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The LG G Flex was a groundbreaking Android phablet known for its distinctive curved P-OLED display and an innovative "self-healing" back cover designed to mend minor scratches. Launched as a proof-of-concept, it showcased LG's early advancements in flexible screen technology and unique design elements.
Display6.0-inch Curved P-OLED (720p)
ChipsetSnapdragon 800
Main Camera13 MP
Battery3500 mAh
Starting from $120

💰 LG G Flex Price

The LG G Flex lowest price is $120, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeCurved P-OLED capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors
Size6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~75.8% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~245 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 2

Platform

OSAndroid 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean), upgradable to 4.4.2 (KitKat)
ChipsetQualcomm MSM8974 Snapdragon 800 (28 nm)
CPUQuad-core 2.26 GHz Krait 400
GPUAdreno 330

Memory

Card slotNo
Internal32GB 2GB RAM

Main Camera

Modules13 MP, f/2.4, 29mm (standard), AF
FeaturesLED flash, panorama, HDR
Video1080p@60fps, 4K video recording (with KitKat update)

Selfie Camera

Modules2.1 MP
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Po 3500 mAh, non-removable
ChargingStandard charging

Body

Dimensions160.5 x 81.6 x 8.7 mm (6.32 x 3.21 x 0.34 in)
Weight177 g (6.24 oz)
BuildCurved body and display, plastic back with self-healing coating
SIMMicro-SIM

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, hotspot
Bluetooth4.0, A2DP, LE
GPSYes, with A-GPS, GLONASS
NFCYes
Infrared portYes
USBmicroUSB 3.0 (SlimPort)

Launch

AnnouncedOctober 2013
StatusDiscontinued

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Unique and innovative curved design
  • Durable 'self-healing' back cover
  • Excellent battery life for its era
  • Good performance with Snapdragon 800
  • Immersive viewing experience due to curved screen

Cons

  • Lower resolution 720p display for a 6-inch screen
  • No expandable storage (no microSD card slot)
  • Initial high price point for a concept device
  • Curved design was not universally appealing or practical
  • Limited software updates beyond Android KitKat
★ Our Verdict

The LG G Flex earns a 7/10 for its bold innovation and unique features, though its experimental nature and some compromises like the 720p display prevent a higher score.

The LG G Flex is a collector's item rather than a practical daily driver in today's market. If you're a tech enthusiast interested in the history of smartphone innovation, particularly flexible displays, it's a fascinating piece to own. However, for everyday use, its outdated software, lower-resolution screen by modern standards, and lack of ongoing support mean it won't keep up with current apps or performance expectations. Expect to pay a premium if you find one in good condition, as its rarity and historical significance contribute to its value among collectors. Don't consider it for its photographic capabilities or raw processing power, but rather for its pioneering spirit in smartphone design.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • LG G Flex smartphone
  • USB 3.0 cable
  • Wall charger
  • Stereo headset
  • Quick Start Guide
  • SIM ejector tool

Standard manufacturer's warranty, typically 1 year, covered manufacturing defects.

❓ Questions & Answers

What was unique about the LG G Flex?

The LG G Flex was unique for being one of the first smartphones to feature a curved P-OLED display and an innovative 'self-healing' coating on its back panel, designed to repair minor scratches.

When was the LG G Flex released?

The LG G Flex was officially unveiled in October 2013 and first released in November 2013, with availability in other markets, in early 2014.

Does the LG G Flex have a good camera?

The LG G Flex featured a 13-megapixel main camera and a 2.1-megapixel front camera, which were considered good for its time, and it gained 4K video recording capability with a software update.

Can the LG G Flex still be used today?

While the LG G Flex can technically still be used, its outdated Android operating system (up to 4.4.2 KitKat) and hardware mean it will struggle with modern apps and security, making it more suitable as a collector's item.

What is the 'self-healing' back of the LG G Flex?

The 'self-healing' back of the LG G Flex was a special coating that could automatically repair minor abrasions and scratches over time, helping to maintain the phone's aesthetic appearance.

Was the LG G Flex flexible?

The LG G Flex had a curved design and was designed to be slightly flexible, allowing it to withstand some pressure without breaking, though it was not meant to be bent intentionally by users.