CES 2012: LG Releases Spectrum Amid Strong Competition

The South Korean device maker's handset supports Verizon's 4G LTE network and features a 1.5-gigahertz Qualcomm dual-core processor, a 4.5-inch HD display and Android's Gingerbread operating system, upgradable to Ice Cream Sandwich. It has rear- and front-facing cameras, capturing 8-megapixel images and full HD video.

The Spectrum accommodates a 1,830 mAh battery, as well as a second, extended battery with 3,000 mAh, helping the device keep up with heavier demands on power due to its LTE capabilities.

The Spectrum is the latest addition to Verizon's growing number of high-speed 4G devices, which now include the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, Motorola Droid Razr, HTC Rezound and Droid 4. Verizon will likely be pleased at its expanding stable as it attempts to boost its high-speed network with subscribers, but LG's Spectrum may struggle in this group of heavily-promoted, high-profile handsets.

The Spectrum is one of the first high-end handsets for LG, which found some success with its lower-end Optimus models last year. LG is trying to turn around its fortunes in the mobile market, after it failed to keep apace of national rivals like Samsung.

The company is beset with heavy financial losses in many of its electronics divisions, but a move into the competitive, high-end of the handset market, with its increased visibility and more robust profit margins, is likely a necessary one if LG hopes to become a top phone maker and stay competitive.

However, it takes on formidable competition in the upper echelon of Android smartphones. Samsung recently announced a record year, riding high on sales of its popular Galaxy phones for various carriers, and the electronics company shows no signs of slowing momentum in its release schedule. LG will also contend with a slew of HTC models set for release at the beginning of this year, as well as continued popular demand for Apple's iPhone 4S.

The Spectrum aims to attract customers with its considerable display and specs, but the device will likely have difficulty muscling against strong rivals to find its place.