The LG Shine is set to be launched in early 2007, and looks like an excellent addition to the LG stable. At a time when unique releases seem to be few and far between, the look and feel of the LG Shine is something different, and sure to prove popular in the mass market.

Weighing in at a slightly heavier than normal 115 grams, with dimensions of 98 mm x 51 mm x 14 mm the phone offers access to a variety of networks including GSM 900, GSM 1800, GSM 1900 and GPRS ensuring a great selection of connectivity worldwide. While the phone contains a Bluetooth and USB options, the none existence of EDGE, 3G, WLAN or Infrared data transfer functionality is a little disappointing

This latest addition to the LG range has a very striking shiny metallic outer casing which gives a classy, sharp look to the phone complimented by the mirror effect screen. The larger than normal screen is 2.2 inches from corner to corner, offering 240 x 320 pixel resolution and supporting a range of 256,000 colour variations to give a focused display which holds up well in direct sunlight.

There is also a vast array of messaging services including SMS, EMS, MMS and email, which are all complimented by the WAP 2.0xHTML browser, ensuring that you are contactable 24 hours a day 7 days a week - perfect for your mobile office. The LG Shine also includes a top of the range 2 megapixel camera which offers great functionality including standard pictures, video footage and also contains a flash for greater detail. The Li-Ion battery supports 72 hours standby and up to 3 hours talk time, which compares favourably with the vast majority of phones on the market.

The more traditional services include a 1000 entry phone book, which allows you to store more than just a number and name. There is also an extended dialled, received and missed call list which can retain the last 40 entries for each. While there is no dedicated memory slot on the LG Shine handset, the internal memory is some 1GB - more than enough for most usage.

Polyphonic ringtones, downloadable wallpapers, JAVA games and a quality number of music services including MP3, AAC, AAC+ and MPEG4 player all add to the all round attractions of the handset. While few mobiles will ever be able to compete with the famous LG Chocolate Phone, the LG Shine has the potential to be as popular in due course.