As the first phone to access Cingular’s HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) network, we 
had high expectations for the LG CU500. Instead of an original design befitting its singular Cingular status, LG chose a variation on a RAZR theme. Hidden behind this derivative dress is an impressive body of features and applications that make this clamshell a worthy multimedia flagship.
The CU500 sports a clean and well-spaced keypad and navigation array. Below the volume toggle is a small key that provides direct access to the MP3 player, camera, and camcorder. A row of media playback buttons (Rewind, Play/Pause, and Fast-Forward) resides underneath the external color LCD.
Since Cingular doesn’t yet have a music store to compete with the likes of Sprint and Verizon, the LG CU500 is a better bet for those who like to load their own tracks. Too bad the microSD Card slot is inconveniently located behind the battery, requiring a reboot every time you want to access it. LG doesn’t include earbuds either, although the phone is equipped with stereo Bluetooth.
One very cool music feature is MusicID, an application that lets you hold the LG CU500 up to nearby speakers while a song is playing to identify the artist and track. We tried it out, and the service accurately identified Coldplay’s “Clocks” within 30 seconds. MusicID then asked if we wanted to buy the corresponding ringtone. :: LAPTOP Magazine • LG CU500 ::