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The Rise and Fall of LG Phones: From V20 Innovations to Market Exit

General Report June 12, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. LG V20: Product Innovations and User Benefits
  2. OLED Transformation: LG Display’s Stride in Smartphone Screens
  3. Battery Prowess: Driving Emerging Market Growth
  4. The Planned Sunset of LG’s Mobile Business
  5. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The exploration of LG's trajectory in the smartphone industry unmistakably underscores a narrative punctuated by both remarkable technological advancements and strategic missteps. Central to this narrative is the LG V20, a flagship smartphone that exemplified the company’s innovative capabilities. Launched with high-end specifications such as the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor and a 5.7-inch Quad HD display, the V20 was designed to meet the diverse needs of users ranging from tech aficionados to professionals requiring robust multitasking functionalities. Its durability, showcased through a military-grade aluminum body and a removable battery, further augmented its appeal, particularly among users who prioritized longevity and flexibility in their devices.

  • In the realm of imaging, the dual-camera system of the V20 stood out, featuring a 16 MP primary camera and an 8 MP wide-angle lens. This configuration enriched users' photography experience, enabling them to capture high-quality images across various settings. Furthermore, LG's emphasis on user experience was evident, with the V20 boasting exceptional audio capabilities through its built-in Quad DAC, making it the device of choice for professionals engaged in multimedia presentations or remote communications. Despite LG's accomplishments with the V20 and other innovations, market dynamics ultimately led to the company's decision to shut down its mobile operations by the end of June 2025, concluding its 15-year journey in the smartphone sector.

  • Simultaneously, LG Display's ongoing transformation into an OLED-centric business model has positioned it at the forefront of display technology evolution. The company actively seeks to meet the growing demand for high-quality OLED screens critical for leading smartphone brands, including its strategic partnership with Apple for the upcoming iPhone 17. As of June 2025, LG Display's focus on producing small- and medium-sized OLED panels signals a significant shift in the industry that embraces enhanced visual quality and energy efficiency, ensuring that consumers will still experience LG's technological advancements through superior display solutions even after the exit of its mobile division.

  • Complementing its display innovations, LG's prowess in battery technology remains a key differentiator in both domestic and emerging markets. The advancements in high-density lithium-ion batteries, particularly through LG Energy Solution, position the company to cater to a diverse range of applications beyond smartphones, significantly impacting the electric vehicle landscape in Southeast Asia through local manufacturing. With the impending closure of LG’s mobile division, the company’s innovative technologies in battery and display areas are anticipated to sustain influence across broader markets and industries.

2. LG V20: Product Innovations and User Benefits

  • 2-1. Detailed hardware specifications of the V20

  • The LG V20 is equipped with high-end specifications that cater to the needs of diverse users, including tech enthusiasts and professionals. At its core, the device features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM, which collectively ensures smooth multitasking and efficient handling of demanding applications. This powerful hardware allows users to operate various business apps seamlessly, enhancing productivity throughout the day.

  • In addition to processing capabilities, the LG V20 boasts a 5.7-inch Quad HD display with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels. This vibrant display produces sharp visuals, making it ideal for multimedia consumption and professional presentations. With a military-grade aluminum body, the V20 is designed for durability, providing resilience against daily wear and tear, catering well to on-the-go professionals.

  • Moreover, the V20 features a removable 3200 mAh battery, allowing for extended usage and the potential for quick swaps to maintain productivity levels. This flexibility is particularly advantageous in work settings where downtime needs to be minimized.

  • 2-2. Dual-camera system and imaging capabilities

  • One of the distinguishing features of the LG V20 is its innovative dual-camera system, which consists of a 16 MP primary camera and an 8 MP wide-angle lens. This configuration enhances users' photographic capabilities, allowing for stunning images in various scenarios. The standard camera features a bright f/1.8 aperture, enabling it to capture high-quality photos even in low-light conditions, which is essential for marketing promotions or social media content.

  • On the other hand, the 8 MP wide-angle lens offers a broader perspective, ideal for capturing landscapes or group images without having to step back. The absence of autofocus on this lens requires users to frame their shots carefully, yet it adds flexibility in creative photography.

  • Furthermore, the front camera includes dual functionalities, offering both normal and wide-angle modes (5MP) for selfies and video calls. This versatility allows users to engage effectively in personal branding and networking, making the V20 a strong choice for professionals seeking to enhance their digital presence.

  • 2-3. Build quality and durability features

  • The LG V20 has been designed with an emphasis on durability and practicality. Constructed with military-grade aluminum, this smartphone is resistant to the everyday rigors associated with active lifestyles, making it suitable for professionals who require a robust device that can withstand various conditions environmentally and physically.

  • The lightweight design, weighing only 174 grams, ensures portability without compromising on performance. This ergonomic consideration makes it easier for users to carry the device for extended periods, whether they are moving between meetings or working remotely.

  • Additionally, the removable battery feature not only aids in longevity but also aligns with the ideals of sustainability, as users can easily replace the battery when its lifespan declines, further extending the device's usability.

  • 2-4. Target user scenarios and professional use cases

  • The LG V20 has been strategically positioned to meet the needs of various user segments, particularly small business professionals and tech enthusiasts. For instance, its impressive camera capabilities render it an ideal choice for marketing professionals who need to capture high-quality images for promotional content, social media updates, or product documentation.

  • Moreover, the exceptional audio quality provided by the built-in Quad DAC significantly enhances the audio experience during video conferences, crucial for communication in a remote work environment. The device’s capabilities make it particularly useful for individuals who rely on multimedia presentations as part of their professional activities.

  • The expandable storage options, allowing for up to 2 TB via microSD, also make it suitable for users needing ample space for documents, media files, and applications essential for their business operations. Overall, the LG V20 stands as a comprehensive tool designed to facilitate productivity while meeting entertainment needs.

3. OLED Transformation: LG Display’s Stride in Smartphone Screens

  • 3-1. Strategic goals for small- and medium-sized OLED production

  • LG Display is currently focusing on strategic goals aimed at enhancing its production capabilities of small- and medium-sized OLED displays. This shift is part of a broader initiative to pivot away from traditional LCD technology towards an OLED-centric business model. The company's recent performance indicates a strong emphasis on supporting devices like the upcoming iPhone 17, which is expected to feature large OLED panels offering advanced functionalities, including a 120Hz variable refresh rate. As of now, LG Display is consolidating resources and aligning its operational strategies to meet the growing demand for these high-quality displays, particularly in the competitive smartphone market.

  • 3-2. Implications for future smartphone display quality

  • The ongoing transformation towards OLED technology is expected to significantly enhance the quality of smartphone displays in the near future. OLED panels typically provide better color accuracy, deeper blacks, and improved energy efficiency compared to their LCD counterparts. As LG Display ramps up its OLED production capabilities, consumers can anticipate smartphones with brighter displays, superior contrast ratios, and overall enhanced visual experiences. This transition will not only improve user satisfaction but also position LG Display at the forefront of a technology shift that is becoming critical in satisfying the demands of premium smartphone manufacturers and discerning consumers alike.

  • 3-3. Partnerships and supply to major OEMs like Apple

  • LG Display's OLED transformation includes forging crucial partnerships with major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Apple. Recent reports have highlighted LG Display's pivotal role in supplying OLED panels for the iPhone 17, reinforcing its status as a key player in the industry. This partnership is particularly significant as Apple plans to adopt advanced LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology in all iPhone 17 models, which is expected to support high refresh rates crucial for gaming and media consumption. The collaboration with Apple not only ensures a steady demand for LG's OLED products but also positions the company to leverage Apple’s brand reputation in boosting its own market presence.

  • 3-4. Timeline for second-half 2025 milestones

  • Looking ahead to the second half of 2025, LG Display has outlined critical milestones aimed at solidifying its position in the OLED market. The company anticipates a significant uptick in its revenue performance, particularly as it successfully shifts focus from LCD to OLED technologies. The operational benchmarks set for this timeframe will be closely scrutinized as they will be pivotal in determining LG Display's profitability and market success. Analysts are predicting an operating profit of approximately KRW 470 billion to KRW 500 billion for the fourth quarter, signaling a potential turnaround that would validate the company’s strategic pivot to OLED. Achieving these targets will be essential for LG Display's overall financial health and future sustainability in the highly competitive display market.

4. Battery Prowess: Driving Emerging Market Growth

  • 4-1. LG’s Battery Technology Advantages

  • LG has established itself as a formidable player in the battery technology sector, particularly through its subsidiary, LG Energy Solution. The company's expertise in producing high-density lithium-ion batteries, which are essential for electric vehicles (EVs) and a range of consumer electronics, positions it favorably within the competitive landscape. As of June 2025, LG's battery production capabilities are characterized by high yields and innovative design, allowing for efficient energy storage solutions that enhance performance and longevity.

  • 4-2. Application of Battery Innovations Beyond Smartphones

  • While LG's innovations in battery technology have significantly benefited smartphone users, the company is also expanding its focus beyond this traditional market. By integrating advanced battery systems into electric vehicles and renewable energy storage solutions, LG aims to harness its technological prowess to cater to varied energy needs. The shift towards electrification across industries is expected to amplify the demand for LG's batteries, which are designed to be adaptable to different applications, notably in transportation and combined heat and power systems.

  • 4-3. Role in Southeast Asia and Other Emerging Regions

  • Southeast Asia has emerged as a strategic market for LG's battery business, driven by increasing urbanization, rising electricity demand, and a concerted push towards sustainable energy solutions. The company's proactive approach in the region involves establishing local production facilities, like the joint venture with Hyundai Motor Co. in Indonesia. This plant specializes in battery manufacturing with an annual production capacity of 10 GWh, sufficient to power approximately 150,000 EVs. As of June 2025, LG's chairman has indicated that these regional strategies are part of a broader vision to enhance growth in promising markets while navigating competitive pressures.

  • 4-4. Impact on Device Runtime and User Experience

  • The advancements in LG's battery technology directly translate into improved user experiences by enhancing device runtime and reliability. Users benefit from longer-lasting batteries that require less frequent charging, which is particularly crucial for mobile devices and electric vehicles. As LG continues to innovate, these improvements are expected to play a vital role in customer satisfaction and brand loyalty, consequently empowering the company to maintain its market position even as it transitions away from smartphone production.

5. The Planned Sunset of LG’s Mobile Business

  • 5-1. Announcement of mobile division closure timeline

  • LG Electronics officially announced its plans to shut down its mobile division in early 2021, a decision rooted in years of declining market share and increased competition from rival brands like Oppo and Xiaomi. As of June 2025, LG is in the final stages of this process, with the complete closure set for June 30, 2025. This timeline marks the end of over 15 years of LG's presence in the smartphone market, during which the company experienced significant ups and downs, once being ranked the world's third-bestselling mobile brand.

  • 5-2. User guidance for final software updates

  • As LG prepares to exit the mobile market, users are urged to take action to receive critical software updates before the closure date. The company's last promised update will be rolled out on June 30, 2025, after which users will no longer receive any software or security updates for their devices. This cessation implies that devices will become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, as no further patches will be issued to address known security vulnerabilities. Users are strongly advised to upgrade their software prior to this date to ensure continued functionality and security.

  • 5-3. Market conditions leading to the exit decision

  • LG's decision to close its mobile division was influenced by a rapidly evolving market landscape characterized by aggressive competition and diminishing returns. Despite making significant strides in innovation, including the introduction of products like the LG Wing 5G with dual displays, the company has struggled to maintain a foothold in a market increasingly dominated by competitors with more aggressive pricing and marketing strategies. Factors including stagnant sales, increased manufacturing costs, and a lack of consumer interest in LG's latest offerings catalyzed this sweeping decision.

  • 5-4. Broader implications for Android ecosystem partners

  • The impending closure of LG's mobile division carries significant implications for partners within the Android ecosystem. As LG played a crucial role in the development of Android devices, its exit signals a notable shift in the competitive landscape. Manufacturers who have relied on LG for parts, technology sharing, or as a competitor will need to recalibrate their strategies. The loss of an innovator like LG could hinder diversity in smartphone offerings for consumers and may foster further consolidation among remaining players, potentially diminishing the robust competitiveness that has characterized the Android ecosystem.

Conclusion

  • The culmination of LG’s smartphone journey reveals an intricate interplay of innovation, market adaptation, and strategic decisions that ultimately led to the planned closure of its mobile division by June 30, 2025. Despite the cessation of LG mobile phones, the legacy of the LG V20 and the company's technological contributions in OLED display and battery systems remain significant. These core competencies are strategically positioned to bolster LG's future endeavors in the consumer electronics space, ensuring the company maintains a pivotal role in shaping technological advancements long after its exit from the smartphone sector.

  • Looking ahead, LG Display’s ambitious plans for expanding OLED production capabilities are indicative of a future where the boundaries of smartphone screen quality are continually pushed. The imminent shift towards OLED technology across major smartphone brands is expected to drive market growth and heighten competition among manufacturers, revealing opportunities for LG Display to solidify its stature as a leader in the display market. This transformation will not only enhance consumer satisfaction but will also cement LG's role as a critical player in the ongoing evolution of mobile devices.

  • Moreover, LG's strategic advancements in battery technology continue to set the stage for significant developments across various industries, particularly in electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions. As the company navigates the competitive landscape of battery production, its ongoing initiatives in Southeast Asia signify a proactive approach to capturing emerging market opportunities. The influence of LG's innovations is poised to extend beyond its mobile division, reinforcing the notion that the company, while exiting one arena, is strategically transitioning toward establishing dominance in others. In summary, as LG embraces new directions, its visionary contributions to technology are anticipated to resonate throughout the consumer electronics landscape for years to come.

Glossary

  • LG V20: The LG V20 is a flagship smartphone launched by LG in 2016, notable for its high-end specifications including a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor and a 5.7-inch Quad HD display. It features a dual-camera system for advanced photography, exceptional audio capabilities through a built-in Quad DAC, and a durable design with a removable battery, catering to both tech enthusiasts and professionals.
  • OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode): OLED is a display technology that uses organic compounds to emit light when an electric current is applied. Compared to LCDs, OLED screens offer better color accuracy, deeper blacks, improved energy efficiency, and can be made thinner and more flexible, making them ideal for modern smartphones.
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 820: The Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 is a high-performance mobile processor designed for smartphones and tablets, introduced in 2015. It integrates advanced processing capabilities, enabling smooth multitasking and efficient handling of demanding applications and graphics-heavy tasks.
  • Quad HD: Quad HD (QHD) is a display resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels, providing four times the resolution of 720p HD. This high pixel density offers sharp, detailed visuals, making it suitable for multimedia consumption and professional presentations, as seen in devices like the LG V20.
  • LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide): LTPO is a display technology that allows for dynamic refresh rates, optimizing battery life and performance in OLED displays. It is particularly useful in devices that require varying refresh rates for different content, such as gaming or media consumption, being adopted in upcoming models like the iPhone 17.
  • LG Energy Solution: LG Energy Solution is a subsidiary of LG dedicated to manufacturing battery technologies, including high-density lithium-ion batteries used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles. As of June 2025, it remains a major player in the battery sector, helping drive innovations in energy solutions.
  • Mobile Shutdown: The mobile shutdown refers to LG's planned closure of its mobile division by June 30, 2025, after years of declining market share. This decision follows significant competitive pressures and challenges in maintaining a presence in the increasingly aggressive smartphone market.
  • Dual-camera system: A dual-camera system consists of two camera sensors on a smartphone, allowing for diverse photography options. In the case of the LG V20, it includes a 16 MP primary camera and an 8 MP wide-angle lens, enhancing versatility for capturing high-quality images across various scenarios.
  • Smartphone Ecosystem: The smartphone ecosystem refers to the interconnected network of devices, applications, and services that coexist within the smartphone market. LG's exit from mobile operations impacts this ecosystem by potentially reducing competition and innovation, affecting partnerships and technological diversity among smartphone manufacturers.
  • Battery Technology: Battery technology encompasses the systems and innovations involved in the creation and enhancement of energy storage solutions, particularly lithium-ion batteries utilized in smartphones and electric vehicles. LG’s advancements in this area contribute to improvements in runtime, efficiency, and overall device performance.
  • Market Exit: Market exit refers to a company's decision to cease operations or withdraw from a particular market segment. LG's scheduled departure from the mobile phone market by the end of June 2025 marks the end of its involvement in smartphone manufacturing, redirecting focus towards display and battery technologies.

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