LG V30 ThinQ long-term review

Software

While our V30S unit runs Android 8.0 Oreo, you won't find very many traces of Google's design language inside, with the notification area being the single biggest exception. LG's skin is still rather heavy, although we can't say we're bothered too much by it. And that's because it doesn't go as far as other overlays in trying to change everything just for the sake of being different.

Notification area • Quick Settings

It switches out most of stock Android's looks but doesn't touch the underlying functionality, and it also adds loads of features on top - some of which you may like, some you'll end up ignoring, and a few that are obviously nothing more than gimmicks. Yet none of these actively get in the way of you using your smartphone the way you want.

So while the interface does look mostly different compared to 'pure' Android, it gets the job done nevertheless. If you're a stock Android lover you're probably not looking to buy the V30S anyway, and for most people this skin will be decent, and not bothersome at all (or not very often, at least).

Most of LG's add-ons aren't turned on by default, and this makes the initial setup a breeze even if you aren't the type of person to go through each and every setting before you really start using a phone day in and day out. If you like having more options than what Google intended, you'll be pretty happy with what LG's done with Android on this device.

We still have to note some weird inconsistencies, design-wise, where certain elements mimic those in Google's interpretation of Android and others of the same type don't. Here's the best (or worst, depending on your feelings on the matter) example: the Wi-Fi icon in the status bar is identical to what you'd see on a Pixel (save for an added lock symbol in the bottom right, which shows up when you're connected to a network secured with a password). On the other hand, the mobile network signal indicator that sits right next to it goes for the completely different 'separated lines' look.

The Settings menu is tabbed, and not just one list, but we're not sure why anyone would have a problem with that. The icons for the built-in apps are still a little bit too cartoonish, but so what - in the end tapping on them will get you to the app you need. If you must, you can always switch to another of the built-in themes and even download some more from the LG store.

Tabbed Settings

While that own-brand app-store-like solution from LG does exist on the V30S alongside the Play Store, the company has thankfully resisted the urge to come up with a virtual assistant of its own like that other Korean smartphone maker. LG's app store can safely be ignored for the most part and only used to update certain built-in apps (or for installation of additional LG apps, which is a choice you first get upon the initial setup).

The launcher is devoid of an app drawer by default, but changing that is easily accomplished through Settings. Among its options are choices for icon shape and grid layout, and you can enable a search function when you swipe down on the home screen - yet this might get a tad redundant if you also use the Google search widget.

Home screen, app drawer (not enabled by default)

We like the fact that LG lets you add a fourth button to the navigation bar, which brings down the notification pane when you tap it and then pulls it back up if you tap again. It's a feature we feel should be built into any Android phone that has a screen with a tall aspect ratio, especially over 5.5" in size. Without it, on such handsets you pretty much always have to readjust your grip when sliding down the notification area from the top of the display.

Navigation button options

Finally, a note about updates. Most Android devices fare pretty badly in this regard, aside from the Pixel line and a few notable exceptions from OEMs that aren't Google. That's hardly news at this point. However, LG hasn't been particularly great about issuing prompt updates to its flagships internationally. The situation is oddly different for its home market, with Korean models always receiving new Android versions first, sometimes months ahead of the units sold elsewhere.

The V30S is still on the February security patch

We're hoping LG will change its stance on the matter and at least deliver monthly security updates to its high-end offerings everywhere, but you should never base a purchase decision on our hopes and dreams.