Digital Trends

LG CU515 February 28th, 2008 | by Damon Brown

Setup and Use

On a more mundane level, making calls on the CU515 is a snap. The circular thumbpad and keypad are smooth and responsive. The four aforementioned icons on the thumbpad allow quick access to the different menu options.

The phone’s email is compatible with Yahoo!, AOL, AIM, Windows and other formats, so your current email provider is more than likely. The 1.3 MegaPixel camera isn’t especially powerful, but it does take crisp and clear pictures as well as decent video – even without a light source from the phone. It does require a steady hand, so avoid using it in shaky situations. The CU515 is also Bluetooth compatible.

The other multimedia functions leave much to be desired. It comes with AT&T Mobile Music which allows you to purchase music, listen to XM radio and watch music videos. Music purchasing seemed straightforward, as did XM radio (which gives you a three-day free trial). While the music is only $.99 USD a pop, you’re not going to be able to listen to your own music catalog until you pony up money for a microSD card (to store the music) and a USB transfer wire (to get the music off your computer). I can’t think of another next-gen music phone in recent memory that forces you to buy more equipment before you can actually listen to your own music. 

Another feature, Push To Talk, allows you to find out if someone you’re trying to contact is available before you attempt to call. Think of it as a mobile IM, with icons for available, do not disturb or so on. It seemed like a decent, if superfluous, addition. Unfortunately, this will also cost you more money to use.

Price

AT&T’s LG CU515 list price is $239.99 USD, which is well over what it is worth. On the other hand, the two-year contract commitment and a mail-in rebate, taking off $150 and $50, respectively, make the phone a $40 steal. It falls under AT&T’s standard data plan.

When considering the CU515, automatically add the cost of a USB transfer wire, headphones and, particularly, a microSD card to the bill. Check www.attwireless.com for the latest prices.

Conclusion

The LG CU515 is a fine phone with fast Internet access, versatile email and a decent camera. The problem is that the phone can’t be fully utilized until purchasing a handful of different accoutrements and services – some of which other phones provide right in the box. Despite its multimedia power, it’s best to look at the LG CU515 as a stripped-down phone – even though LG itself did the stripping.

Pros:
• Solid camera
• Fast multimedia downloads
• Versatile email

Cons:
• Stripped down phone
• Typically standard accessories cost extra