After releasing the high-end G8 ThinQ and V50 ThinQ,
LG is now getting ready to launch a third 2019 smartphone in the US. This time we're talking about a lower end model - the LG K40. Officially
announced back in February, the K40 has a product page on Best Buy's website,
where it's presented as "coming soon." There is no release date
mentioned anywhere, but we can see a price: US$ 179.99 unlocked.
The LG K40 sports a 5.7-inch display with 720 x 1440
pixels and a (now pretty standard) 18:9 aspect ratio. The handset is powered by
an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 processor - decent enough for all
non-intensive tasks - further offering 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of expandable
storage space. Other features include shock resistance (but no water
resistance), fingerprint scanner, 3D surround sound, dedicated Google Assistant
button, an 8 MP rear camera, and a 3000 mAh battery.
This unlocked LG K40 is compatible with Verizon,
AT&T, and T-Mobile (including their prepaid brands), but not with Sprint.
Sadly, it looks like the smartphone will run Android 8.1 Oreo at launch,
despite the fact that the newer and better Android 9 Pie has been around since
last year.
Until we get the chance to test the LG K40, we're
not sure we can recommend buying it. In any case, if you're in the market for a
cheap unlocked phone, you should keep an eye on the K40 - we'll be here to let
you know when it goes on sale.
