The X Venture is described as a phone for people who “want a tough adventure companion device.” It’s the latest rugged handset with competent hardware, intended for people who want a high-end smartphone that won’t end up with cracked glass, a scratched back or scuffed edges after a day’s hike up a mountain.
The 5.2-inch handset has been put through 14 different outdoor suitability tests originally designed for the U.S. military. It features IP68 water and dust resistance for use in a range of environments. The metal frame is covered with a non-slip rubberised back cover that’s easy to use outside. There’s physical hardware keys for back and multitasking for ease of use with gloves.
LG X Venture
LG
The overall look is still distinctively “rugged phone,” employing the angular look that seems to be a prerequisite desire for every outdoor explorer. With its squared off corners and chunky display bezels, the X Venture’s military aspirations are evident from the exterior. The design does lessen the impact of dropping the phone though, an advantage for its intended use cases.
The phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 processor. There’s 2GB of RAM, 32GB of expandable storage, Wi-Fi 80.211a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 4.2. The rear 16MP camera is joined by a 5MP wide angle sensor on the front. The handset runs Android 7.0 Nougat out of the box. LG hasn’t said when Android 7.1 will be delivered.
LG X Venture
LG
The battery is a notably large 4,100mAh unit. Given the relatively low-power processor and the comparatively small 1080p display, this should be sufficient for well over a day of typical usage outdoors. It only needs 48 minutes to recharge to 50% capacity, letting you top up while you’re stopped to eat or rest.
In a final effort to attract outdoors enthusiasts, LG has developed a new “Outdoor Essentials” app that equips the X Venture with a single screen to track environmental vitals. The app comprises six tools that give you an at-a-glance view of your surroundings, route and personal fitness.
LG X Venture
LG
There’s a barometer, compass, pedometer, exercise tracker, weather reporter and flashlight hotkey. Although Outdoor Essentials doesn’t go much deeper than presenting this basic information, it’s a start towards buying a fully-equipped fitness tracker.
According to LG, the X Venture is meant to be a dependable phone that doesn’t need looking after. Instead, it’ll help you stay on track by putting GPS details and a flashlight at your fingertips. The company suggested it’ll give you the confidence to negotiate trails without fear of getting lost or smashing your regular smartphone.
LG X Venture
LG
“Consumers with active lifestyles want devices that they don’t need to coddle or worry about when they’re on the go,” said Juno Cho, president of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “But the LG X venture isn’t a ruggedized phone that makes sacrifices. Its long list of features, long battery life and excellent photo capabilities makes it the ideal companion for customers who wants a phone that works anytime, anywhere.”
LG is initially targeting North American buyers with the X Venture after seeing strong success in the U.S. smartphone market this year. It now holds over 20% of the market after becoming significantly competitive against Apple and Samsung with its recent premium G and V-series handsets. The X Venture will be priced competitively as an alternative to the company’s flagship phones. Availability details haven’t yet been announced.
