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Telus launches CDMA-based LG Optimus 3G [Cause a single LG Optimus One is not enough]

Categories: Android, Devices, LG, Telus
By: , IntoMobile
Friday, May 13th, 2011 at 1:19 AM

Although it already offers the GSM/UMTS-based LG Optimus One, Canadian Telus now launched its CDMA counterpart, calling it LG Optimus 3G. From the name of the “new” device, one would think that the earlier version of the Optimus One lacks 3G and that’s not true — it perfectly sings along Telus’ UMTS/HSPA network — so we’re not sure what’s the idea here is? Moreover, we don’t understand the price – while the original Optimus One could be yours for CA$199.99 without any contracts signed, its CDMA counterpart costs whopping CA$529.99. Of course, each of the two phones could be yours for free on a super-long 3-year contract.

So is Telus implying that CDMA-based Optimus One is worth CA$330 more? If we had to pick which of the two devices is better, that would be the cheaper GSM version as it can handle voice and data simultaneously. Not sure what’s happening here and I can everything but recommend you to buy the Optimus 3G. If you need a mid-range Android smartphone, go for the LG Optimus One and save some cash instantly.

[Via: MobileSyrup, Unwired View]

About The Author

Dusan Belic

Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.

  • http://www.twitter.com/darrenhumphries DarrenHumphries

     What?  I didn’t realize they were still bringing out CDMA devices. (shrug)

  • Jack

    @Dusan, the reason for this device is that HSPA coverage is not ubiquitous in provinces like Manitoba for TELUS and in order to have a competitive product for those customers the CDMA version was introduced.  Since the volume is low the price is high, supply and demand…  

  • http://www.facebook.com/dusan.belic Dusan Belic

    Good point for the coverage, but it’s can’t be volume. It’s the same device CDMA carriers in the U.S. are offering – I doubt Telus is paying much more per unit to LG…

  • Peppermonkey

    There is one big reason one would want the CDMA version. There are many including myself who has a $15 per/mnt unlimited data plan which we would not have if we move up to a HSPA phone.

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_446LMVFYRSCLL25L73KIBKP4LM Tony B

    That is why they brought this phone in. Plus it has WAY better battery life than the Optimus One model.

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_446LMVFYRSCLL25L73KIBKP4LM Tony B

    Telus tried to push their CDMA customers over to HSPA and many began leaving. This phone was rushed to market to save thousands of customers. Manitoba Telus division was hit hard. This phone will likely save their butt in Manitoba. This is a SOLID phone by the way. VERY good reception & Battery life. Way to go Telus. I’m very impressed.

  • Cptncanuk

    The bigger reason is Telus 4G is restricted to major cities.  Head out on the highway and you’ve lost service.  Only the CDMA network is rural.