LG Optimus 3D preview: First look, in stereo

First impressions

Seriously powerful and having that one stand-out feature, the LG Optimus 3D certainly is a smartphone worth a second look. What's even better is that all the stereoscopic stuff actually works out fine so 3D fans won't regret their purchase.

And for the rest, this smartphone is capable of haunting geeks dreams even if you take the 3D coolness away (and let's be honest - no one's forcing you to use it). The only problem is that LG are still dragging their feet about updating its smartphone portfolio to Gingerbread. Even with Froyo though, the Optimus 3D offers a solid enough smartphone experience.

In the end, it all boils down to the importance of 3D for you. If you must have it (and take our word, it's the ultimate show-off feature to get), you probably won't regret sacrificing an AMOLED screen or the goodies brought by Gingerbread.

What's more, the Optimus 3D is unlikely to get much competition for the 3D crown in the short-term. The GSM-loving version of the HTC EVO 3D hasn't even been announced yet. So the Optimus 3D will basically be enjoying a free run at launch.

HTC EVO 3D

We'll get a better idea of the chances of that happening when we get a retail-ready unit of the Optimus 3D to test. Right now the prospects look bright. Would we like some more 3D? Yes, please.