We’re all looking for a device that can pack as much function into one package as possible, as is evident with the smartphone boom and emphasized by increasingly productive cell phones such as the upcoming iPhone 2.0 and the Blackberry Bold. Enter the LG Decoy, who has taken the notion of a multi-tasking cell phone in a new direction. With a Bluetooth headset tucked right into the back of the handset, that you can remove and use whenever you like, and then return to its handy hiding spot when you would rather do things the old-fashioned way, LG has made a statement. 

Doing Double Duty

A sleek slider phone barely larger than the LG Chocolate VX8550, the Decoy has a stylish with a shiny mirror front and a unique royal blue back plate. Complete with a 2MP Camera & Camcorder, EV-DO, a music player, 1000-entry contact list and VCast support, this is a great phone even without the integrated headset. But the included Bluetooth headset is more than just a cherry on top of this already great product - it sets it apart completely from any competition. The first phone to bring this idea to fruition is enjoying its spot as the only handset/Bluetooth headset combination on the market today.

Specifications  

Network:

• CDMA Dual Band (800/1900 MHz)
• CDMA2000 1xRTT/1xEV-DO rev.0
• 3G Capabilities

Size:

• TBD

Battery:

• Li-Ion

Display:

• 240 by 320 pixels
• 262 144 colors, TFT

Digital Camera:

• 2.0 megapixels Resolution
• Includes Digital Camcorder (Video)
• Self-Timer, Mirror

Multimedia:

• Supports Video Playback
• Supports MP3 audio files

Connectivity:

• WAP 2.0
• Micro USB
• Bluetooth Enabled (duh!)
• Headset Audio Jack (2.5mm)

Other:

• Caller groups supported, 1000-names capacity, Multiple Numbers Per Contact, Picture ID, Ring ID
• Alarm, Calendar, Calculator, Stopwatch, Notepad
• Dialing, Recording, Speaker Phone
• Supports Brew
• Supports Email
• Supports GPS

The Bottom Line

The obvious concern here is whether an integrated product like this will perform well in both areas. Has LG delivered 2 great products in one organized package? Or are we sacrificing quality for convenience? According to a few well-written reviews, including CNet’s, LG pulled it off. Both the handset and the headset deliver clear sound and good service, along with impressive battery life for both sub-products. For a consumer looking for both a new phone and Bluetooth headset, this is a great option for its compact shape, unique storage & charging options (the Bluetooth headset can charge in the handset) - and the organization of the whole package can’t be beat.