LG has finally decided to bring their latest offering under the G series of smartphones to the Indian market. The time-of-flight sensor on the front, or the Z Camera as they are calling it, is the same as the one they had on the LG G8 ThinQ.
LG G8s ThinQ specifications
LG G8s ThinQ runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 855. It comes with a 6.2-inch FHD+ FullVision OLED screen, with a resolution of 2248×1080 pixels. 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass is used for protection. It boasts of 6 gigs RAM, and 128 GB internal storage.
LG Electronics
The 3.5 mm audio jack, the DAC and the stereo speakers are retained as expected. It is also IP68 water and dust resistant certified.
It runs on 9.0 Pie, the latest-but-one version of Android (no surprises there). The battery capacity is 3550 mAh.
LG G8s ThinQ camera setup
The rear of the LG G8s ThinQ features a triple camera setup - a standard 12 MP f/1.8 lens, a 12 MP f/2.6 telephoto lens, and a 13 MP f/2.4 wide-angle lens with a 137-degree field of view.
LG Electronics
On the front there is a standard 8 MP f/1.9 selfie camera. It is accompanied by a time-of-flight sensor, named the Z Camera. As explained here, this sensor relies on the infrared light reflecting from the surface to ease depth-sensing. Apart from attaining an improved bokeh for selfies and videos captured from the front camera, LG has utilized this technology to put to three different uses.
First and the most obvious one is the Face ID. The dedicated sensor certainly makes the feature more secure when compared to the software-based face unlock mechanism deployed by the competitive Android devices. Whether it is faster in comparison as well needs to be seen.
The second one is also a biometric feature, only that it involves our hand. Termed Hand ID (no points for creativity), the sensor will scan the circulatory pattern on the hand and use it to determine the rightful owner of the device.
In case you are wondering, there is also a fingerprint scanner at the rear.
The third application is to support air gestures. The sensor will track various hand movements and perform actions based on them.
LG ElectronicsTo quote Mr. Advait Vaidya, Business Head- Mobile Communications, LG Electronics India,
"We are extremely delighted to launch the LG G8s ThinQ, which combines the best of G series to redefine the smartphone user experience across regions. With the latest feature of G-OLED Display & Z camera, consumers can now enjoy a secure recognition feature coupled with a cutting-edge camera performance. This latest addition is a testament to our relentless commitment of providing innovation for a better life. We are confident that LG G8s ThinQ smartphone, will elevate the experience of both our existing and future consumer."
Pricing and availability
36,990 INR is what LG plans to sell the device at. A tough competition from the likes of OnePlus is inevitable. LG G8s ThinQ, which was first introduced the world in July earlier this year, will finally be available for purchase in India tomorrow onwards.
Ankit writes code for a living. He reviews gadgets and books in his free time, and believes in the magical power of a strong cup of coffee.