LG Officially Exits the Smartphone World: A Look Back at Its Best-Ever Phones

The tech world bids farewell to a storied name in smartphone innovation as LG has officially pulled the plug on software updates for its remaining devices. Though the company ceased smartphone production in 2021, this marks the official closing act for LG’s mobile division. For many industry veterans and tech enthusiasts, LG’s legacy remains one of creativity, risk-taking, and a slew of devices that shaped modern smartphone design.

As we reflect on LG’s impact on the global smartphone market, we’ve curated a list of the company’s seven best-ever phones to honor its legacy. These devices not only showcase LG’s commitment to pushing boundaries but also highlight why the tech community will remember the brand fondly.

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The End of an Era for LG Smartphones

LG’s exit from the smartphone market is more than the failure of a once-successful mobile division—it’s the loss of one of the few brands unafraid to take risks. LG’s innovation-first mindset led to devices with dual screens, modular designs, and even curved displays. While not every experiment was successful, LG’s willingness to think differently influenced both competitors and the broader direction of the industry.

With the company sunsetting its software support in May 2025, even LG’s most loyal fans must move on. But before we do, let’s celebrate the company’s most pivotal contributions by ranking its seven greatest smartphones. From their standout designs to trendsetting features, these models are emblematic of LG’s bold approach to development.

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LG’s Best-Ever Smartphones: Ranked

• LG G3 (2014)

The LG G3 redefined display quality in its era, debuting Quad HD resolution and setting a new gold standard for smartphones. Its 5.5-inch screen was not only ahead of its time but paired beautifully with slim bezels, giving it a modern, streamlined look. The G3 also introduced laser autofocus, enabling super-fast and precise photography—a first for the industry. This phone cemented LG’s reputation as a tech leader and remains one of its most celebrated devices.

• LG V60 ThinQ 5G (2020)

Representing LG’s foray into the future of connectivity, the V60 ThinQ equipped users with 5G support, excellent battery performance, and an optional second screen accessory for multitasking. The device became a darling of productivity enthusiasts, standing out with a massive 5,000mAh battery and high-resolution audio output—earning top marks from audiophiles. It blended modern expectations with a touch of LG’s signature flair.

• LG G2 (2013)

Ahead of its time in design, the G2 shifted smartphone layouts by placing the power and volume buttons on the back rather than the sides. This ergonomic innovation earned fans and influenced future devices across brands. The G2 also delivered outstanding battery life and a stunning 5.2-inch full-HD display, all powered by a then top-tier Snapdragon 800 chip. For many, this remains the phone that catapulted LG into the big leagues.

• LG V20 (2016)

The LG V20 became an instant favorite among tech enthusiasts for two main reasons: removable batteries and audiophile-level sound quality. It was the first phone to ship with Android Nougat out of the box and included a secondary display at the top for notifications, shortcuts, and improved multitasking. While other companies moved away from modularity, the V20 stayed loyal to user flexibility, offering durability and performance in equal parts.

• LG G Flex (2013)

If you’re looking for a phone that truly symbolizes LG’s willingness to experiment, the G Flex stands out. Few companies dared to release a curved smartphone with a self-healing back panel that could repair light scratches. While its benefits weren’t always practical, the G Flex remains a conversation starter and a symbol of LG’s commitment to future-forward design.

• LG Wing (2020)

In an age dominated by display slabs, the LG Wing attempted to reshuffle the deck. Its bold swivel-screen design provided an alternative to foldables, creating a T-shaped dual-screen layout for multitasking or immersive experiences. Aimed at the niche crowd wanting creativity over convention, the Wing was bold, imaginative, and set LG apart as a company willing to take risks up until the end.

• LG Optimus G (2012)

The Optimus G held historical significance as the precursor to the G-series that defined LG’s later successes. It showcased excellent build quality, a beautiful True HD IPS display, and fast hardware for its time. Although it eventually became overshadowed by the runaway success of the G2 and G3, the Optimus G deserves its place on this list for laying the foundation for LG’s future flagships.

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LG’s Smartphone Legacy: What Made It Stand Out?

At its height, LG was among the most innovative brands in the mobile space, defining trends long before they became mainstream. Here are a few highlights of why LG left an indelible mark:

• Display Innovations: LG consistently pushed boundaries in display technology, introducing features like Quad HD resolution and experimenting with curved and dual screens.

• Audio Superiority: LG catered to true audiovisual enthusiasts with quad-DAC technology and high-fidelity audio that surpassed competitors for years.

• Risk-Taking: Whether it was modularity, swiveling screens, or self-healing backs, LG wasn’t afraid to think outside the box—even if it annoyed critics.

• Ergonomic Design: With features like rear-button placement and minimal bezels, LG continually innovated user-friendly design.

Despite declining sales in its final years, LG remained a favorite of tech enthusiasts who prioritized creativity over mainstream adoption.

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Why Did LG Smartphones Decline?

Every story of innovation must grapple with the realities of market competition, and LG’s case was no different.

• Tough Competition: Facing juggernauts like Samsung and Apple, LG struggled to solidify its place in a saturated flagship market.

• Marketing Missteps: LG’s phones were often praised by critics but failed to capture the same attention from mainstream consumers due to inconsistent marketing efforts.

• Software Updates: Sporadic and delayed software support alienated loyal fans and tarnished the brand’s otherwise solid reputation for hardware.

While its innovations were inspiring, LG’s inability to unify these strengths into a consistent customer experience likely contributed to its decline.

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Conclusion: Saying Goodbye to an Industry Disruptor

Though LG has now fully exited the smartphone game, its legacy is one of bold experiments and industry-defining creativity. With devices like the LG G3, LG Wing, and LG V20, the brand pushed boundaries even in the face of challenges. The company will be remembered not for playing it safe, but for its ability to color outside the lines.

For longtime fans, now’s the time to look toward other brands for their next upgrade. But as the smartphone market becomes increasingly homogenized, one can’t help but hope that another player steps up to the plate with LG’s same daring approach to innovation.

The chapter on LG smartphones may now be closed, but its spirit of invention will remain a part of tech history—and perhaps even influence future disruptors. Farewell, LG, and thank you for giving us devices that dared to be different.