LG looking to Compal as Windows Mobile smartphone ODM

When it comes to making cellphones, smartphones especially, it makes sense to offload much of the development and manufacturing costs to a third-party ODM (Original Device Manufacturer) more suited to pump out hardware in massive quantities. LG is apparently following the likes of Palm (NSDQ: PALM), HP, Motorola (NYSE: MOT), and Acer in choosing to outsource their Windows Mobile device-manufacturing to WinMo ODM Compal.

LG has made it known that they’re committed to the Windows Mobile platform and will be launching no less than 50 new WinMo handsets over the next few years. That’s certainly a lofty goal, and while we doubt LG will meet their mark, it makes sense for LG to enlist the help of Compal. But, it remains to be seen what kind of quality to expect from LG’s Windows Mobile lineup going forward.

Compal isn’t exactly known for high-quality fit and finish, nor is it known for innovative design. Combined with LG’s push to blitz the smartphone market with dozens of new devices, LG is going to have to work hard to ensure their smartphones retain the top-notch build-quality that we expect from LG handsets, while still maintaining workable profit margins. As the saying goes – quantity, quality, cost, choose two at the expense of the third (okay, it goes something like that).

[Via: DigiTimes]