LG confirms Android-powered Ally, coming May 20th
By Donald Melanson 
posted May 3rd 2010 1:33PM
posted May 3rd 2010 1:33PM
LG Mobile Phones Joins Forces With Marvel Entertainment To Create a Multi-Media Marketing Campaign for 'Iron Man 2'
Movie Tie-In Features 'Stark-Worthy' TV Spots, Futuristic Micro Site and Game, Special Edition Marvel Comic Book and Robust Movie Promotion Program
Campaign Culminates with Film-Themed Event Highlighting Augmented Reality Technology and the New LG Android Device
SAN DIEGO, May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones), in partnership with the upcoming summer blockbuster, Iron Man 2, from Marvel Studios, is launching a multi-platform marketing campaign that celebrates the film'stheme of heroism through technology and gadgets that push the limit. Proving that life is good when you're connected, LG will implement a comprehensive campaign focusing on how innovation can help bring people together and make everybody a Super Hero.
Kicking off the campaign's many initiatives will be Super Hero themed television commercials that showcase the superhuman capabilities of LG's first Android mobile phone, LG Ally. In-store gift-with-purchase promotions will allow consumers nationwide to receive a special edition Augmented Reality enabled Iron Man 2 comic book with the purchase of selected LG handsets. LG will also launch a movie-themed micro site, www.lgim2.com, which includes an engaging online film-themed game with built-in Augmented Reality experiences and text-to-win consumer sweepstakes. The company's Iron Man 2 marketing programs will also include special retail promotions at Best Buy for LG LED HDTVs and Blu-ray Disc players.
The campaign will culminate with an exclusive New York event that will celebrate the launch of LG Ally and will feature futuristic technology from the LG Design the Future Challenge. In addition, the event will allow attendees to interact with a variety of Augmented Reality experiences, as well as provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Iron Man 2 film.
"LG and Marvel have come together once again to empower audiences with a thrilling account of technology and its endless possibilities," said Ehtisham Rabbani, corporate vice president, marketing and innovation, LG Mobile Phones (LG MobileComm USA Inc.). "Allowing LG to display its innovation expertise and most advanced devices, Iron Man 2 is the perfect fit for LG's sophisticated handsets and smart products."
With the world now aware of his dual life as the armored superhero Iron Man, billionaire inventor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) faces pressure from the government, the press, and the public to share his technology with the military in Iron Man 2. Unwilling to let go of his invention, Stark, along with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and James "Rhodey" Rhodes (Don Cheadle) at his side, must forge new alliances -- and confront powerful enemies. The film is directed by Jon Favreau and will debut in theaters nationwide on May 7.
Advertising Campaign
Challenging audiences to ask themselves, "Is it a lifesaver...a smartphone, or something better?" the LG Iron Man 2 advertising campaign brings the power of an LG Android device to life. Centered on five friends caught in the cross-hairs of battle between alien drones and Iron Man himself, each character must use their LG phones to find the right mobile applications to save themselves and capture a bit of glory along the way. Showcasing LG handset capabilities such as instant Internet access, music player portability, turn-by–turn navigation, photo and video sharing, and even the ability to make online purchases and restaurant reservations, each ad is a tribute to the endless possibilities of the LG Ally.
LG Micro Site
LG has developed a micro site that will give movie fans a much deeper and interactive experience than the usual movie tie-in website. In addition to information about LG Ally, site visitors can download Augmented Reality applications and enter a consumer sweepstakes with the chance to win tickets, phones and incredible LG prizes. There is also an online game, where fans can participate in exciting film-themed activities using the latest Augmented Reality technology. The site can be visited at www.lgim2.com.
Limited Edition Marvel Comic Book
A special edition Iron Man 2 comic book created by Marvel will be given away with the purchase of an LG Ally, LG Chocolate Touch and LG enV Touch mobile phone. The comic book will feature a variety of Augmented Reality experiences and will also provide consumers with text messaging short codes to access exclusive Iron Man 2 content.
Movie Promotion Program
Dovetailing with its "Something Better" brand marketing campaign LG Electronics will be implementing a comprehensive movie promotion program with Marvel, including TV advertising, in-store point-of-purchase materials, retailer circular ads, dealer sales incentives, and digital and mobile campaigns, from April 25 through May 22.
Consumers can text LGIM2 from their mobile phone to 95173 to receive exclusive Iron Man content, download the Augmented Reality application on their LG Ally phone and enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win the ultimate Iron Man 2 prize package:
LG Ally and 1 year FREE service contract
2 tickets to the U.S. premiere of a Marvel movie
55-inch class LG "Infinia" LED HDTV and LG Network Blu-ray Home Theater System
Additional elements of the movie promotion program are special Iron Man 2 consumer electronics promotions with Best Buy. From April 25 through May 8, Best Buy shoppers can purchase a specially priced package consisting of LG's LE5400 LED HDTV and BD570 Blu-ray Disc player. Starting on May 9 and running through May 22, Best Buy also will offer a similar LG Iron Man 2 package which bundles together the LE5400 and LG's Network Blu-ray Home Theater LHB335.
LG's LE5400 LED LCD HDTV offers superior picture quality, advanced energy saving options and flexible access to content-on-demand. LG's BD570 Blu-ray Disc player includes NetCast Entertainment Access with wireless connectivity for convenient access to online content such as Netflix™, CinemaNow™, VUDU, YouTube™, Picasa, AccuWeather and Pandora®. LG's LHB335 Home Theater System delivers a stunning entertainment experience with NetCast streaming content, Full HD 1080p Blu-ray Disc playback, 1080p upscaling of standard DVDs, and Pure HD audio performance including Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master Audio Essential.
Consumers interested in learning more about the Best Buy product bundles can visit www.lgironman.com. LG and Best Buy also are supporting the co-branded promotion with a broadcast, online and mobile advertising campaign on ABC networks.
LG's Android "Ally"
LG Ally is the first Android device to boast an Augmented Reality application -- currently exclusive to LG. Consumers who purchase LG Ally can download the Augmented Reality app, featuring exclusive Iron Man 2 content, at www.lgim2.com or by texting 95173 from their mobile phone. Present throughout Iron Man 2, LG Ally allows users to explore and experience Augmented Reality through built-in applications and software. A touch screen handset featuring a full slide out QWERTY keyboard, the Ally is the ultimate complement for technology enthusiasts who, like Tony Stark, expect nothing but the best. LG Ally will be available May 20.
Exclusive Iron Man 2 Event
Showcasing its most "Stark-worthy" technology and reinforcing its innovative heritage, LG will host an event in New York on May 11 that will engage movie fans and gadget gurus alike. The event will boast a variety of Augmented Reality experiences as well as give attendees a hands-on look at the LG Ally. The event will also feature three futuristic concept phones from the LG Design the Future Challenge. This year's competition marks the inaugural participation of Russell Bobbitt, the prop master from Iron Man 2. Bobbitt served as a guest judge for the competition, awarding one contestant's cutting-edge design with the Prop Master's Choice award. The design that wins Prop Master's Choice will be created into a non-working mock-up and displayed at the event. The lucky contestant's design could even windup in Bobbitt's next blockbuster film.The world-renowned prop master will also be on hand at the event to showcase the ultramodern props from the film's set.
About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2009 global sales of USD43.4 billion, LG is comprised of five business units –- Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is the world's leading producer of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner and a Technology Partner of Formula One™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lgusa.com.
About LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company
The LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company is a leading global mobile communications and information company. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design capabilities, LG creates handsets that provide an optimized mobile experience to customers around the world. LG is pursuing convergence technology and mobile computing products, while continuing its leadership role in mobile communication with stylish designs and smart technology. For more information, please visit www.lgmobilephones.com.
About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. For more information, please visit www.LG.com.
SOURCE LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones)
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RELATED LINKS
http://www.lg.com
Movie Tie-In Features 'Stark-Worthy' TV Spots, Futuristic Micro Site and Game, Special Edition Marvel Comic Book and Robust Movie Promotion Program
Campaign Culminates with Film-Themed Event Highlighting Augmented Reality Technology and the New LG Android Device
SAN DIEGO, May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones), in partnership with the upcoming summer blockbuster, Iron Man 2, from Marvel Studios, is launching a multi-platform marketing campaign that celebrates the film'stheme of heroism through technology and gadgets that push the limit. Proving that life is good when you're connected, LG will implement a comprehensive campaign focusing on how innovation can help bring people together and make everybody a Super Hero.
Kicking off the campaign's many initiatives will be Super Hero themed television commercials that showcase the superhuman capabilities of LG's first Android mobile phone, LG Ally. In-store gift-with-purchase promotions will allow consumers nationwide to receive a special edition Augmented Reality enabled Iron Man 2 comic book with the purchase of selected LG handsets. LG will also launch a movie-themed micro site, www.lgim2.com, which includes an engaging online film-themed game with built-in Augmented Reality experiences and text-to-win consumer sweepstakes. The company's Iron Man 2 marketing programs will also include special retail promotions at Best Buy for LG LED HDTVs and Blu-ray Disc players.
The campaign will culminate with an exclusive New York event that will celebrate the launch of LG Ally and will feature futuristic technology from the LG Design the Future Challenge. In addition, the event will allow attendees to interact with a variety of Augmented Reality experiences, as well as provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Iron Man 2 film.
"LG and Marvel have come together once again to empower audiences with a thrilling account of technology and its endless possibilities," said Ehtisham Rabbani, corporate vice president, marketing and innovation, LG Mobile Phones (LG MobileComm USA Inc.). "Allowing LG to display its innovation expertise and most advanced devices, Iron Man 2 is the perfect fit for LG's sophisticated handsets and smart products."
With the world now aware of his dual life as the armored superhero Iron Man, billionaire inventor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) faces pressure from the government, the press, and the public to share his technology with the military in Iron Man 2. Unwilling to let go of his invention, Stark, along with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and James "Rhodey" Rhodes (Don Cheadle) at his side, must forge new alliances -- and confront powerful enemies. The film is directed by Jon Favreau and will debut in theaters nationwide on May 7.
Advertising Campaign
Challenging audiences to ask themselves, "Is it a lifesaver...a smartphone, or something better?" the LG Iron Man 2 advertising campaign brings the power of an LG Android device to life. Centered on five friends caught in the cross-hairs of battle between alien drones and Iron Man himself, each character must use their LG phones to find the right mobile applications to save themselves and capture a bit of glory along the way. Showcasing LG handset capabilities such as instant Internet access, music player portability, turn-by–turn navigation, photo and video sharing, and even the ability to make online purchases and restaurant reservations, each ad is a tribute to the endless possibilities of the LG Ally.
LG Micro Site
LG has developed a micro site that will give movie fans a much deeper and interactive experience than the usual movie tie-in website. In addition to information about LG Ally, site visitors can download Augmented Reality applications and enter a consumer sweepstakes with the chance to win tickets, phones and incredible LG prizes. There is also an online game, where fans can participate in exciting film-themed activities using the latest Augmented Reality technology. The site can be visited at www.lgim2.com.
Limited Edition Marvel Comic Book
A special edition Iron Man 2 comic book created by Marvel will be given away with the purchase of an LG Ally, LG Chocolate Touch and LG enV Touch mobile phone. The comic book will feature a variety of Augmented Reality experiences and will also provide consumers with text messaging short codes to access exclusive Iron Man 2 content.
Movie Promotion Program
Dovetailing with its "Something Better" brand marketing campaign LG Electronics will be implementing a comprehensive movie promotion program with Marvel, including TV advertising, in-store point-of-purchase materials, retailer circular ads, dealer sales incentives, and digital and mobile campaigns, from April 25 through May 22.
Consumers can text LGIM2 from their mobile phone to 95173 to receive exclusive Iron Man content, download the Augmented Reality application on their LG Ally phone and enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win the ultimate Iron Man 2 prize package:
LG Ally and 1 year FREE service contract
2 tickets to the U.S. premiere of a Marvel movie
55-inch class LG "Infinia" LED HDTV and LG Network Blu-ray Home Theater System
Additional elements of the movie promotion program are special Iron Man 2 consumer electronics promotions with Best Buy. From April 25 through May 8, Best Buy shoppers can purchase a specially priced package consisting of LG's LE5400 LED HDTV and BD570 Blu-ray Disc player. Starting on May 9 and running through May 22, Best Buy also will offer a similar LG Iron Man 2 package which bundles together the LE5400 and LG's Network Blu-ray Home Theater LHB335.
LG's LE5400 LED LCD HDTV offers superior picture quality, advanced energy saving options and flexible access to content-on-demand. LG's BD570 Blu-ray Disc player includes NetCast Entertainment Access with wireless connectivity for convenient access to online content such as Netflix™, CinemaNow™, VUDU, YouTube™, Picasa, AccuWeather and Pandora®. LG's LHB335 Home Theater System delivers a stunning entertainment experience with NetCast streaming content, Full HD 1080p Blu-ray Disc playback, 1080p upscaling of standard DVDs, and Pure HD audio performance including Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master Audio Essential.
Consumers interested in learning more about the Best Buy product bundles can visit www.lgironman.com. LG and Best Buy also are supporting the co-branded promotion with a broadcast, online and mobile advertising campaign on ABC networks.
LG's Android "Ally"
LG Ally is the first Android device to boast an Augmented Reality application -- currently exclusive to LG. Consumers who purchase LG Ally can download the Augmented Reality app, featuring exclusive Iron Man 2 content, at www.lgim2.com or by texting 95173 from their mobile phone. Present throughout Iron Man 2, LG Ally allows users to explore and experience Augmented Reality through built-in applications and software. A touch screen handset featuring a full slide out QWERTY keyboard, the Ally is the ultimate complement for technology enthusiasts who, like Tony Stark, expect nothing but the best. LG Ally will be available May 20.
Exclusive Iron Man 2 Event
Showcasing its most "Stark-worthy" technology and reinforcing its innovative heritage, LG will host an event in New York on May 11 that will engage movie fans and gadget gurus alike. The event will boast a variety of Augmented Reality experiences as well as give attendees a hands-on look at the LG Ally. The event will also feature three futuristic concept phones from the LG Design the Future Challenge. This year's competition marks the inaugural participation of Russell Bobbitt, the prop master from Iron Man 2. Bobbitt served as a guest judge for the competition, awarding one contestant's cutting-edge design with the Prop Master's Choice award. The design that wins Prop Master's Choice will be created into a non-working mock-up and displayed at the event. The lucky contestant's design could even windup in Bobbitt's next blockbuster film.The world-renowned prop master will also be on hand at the event to showcase the ultramodern props from the film's set.
About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2009 global sales of USD43.4 billion, LG is comprised of five business units –- Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is the world's leading producer of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner and a Technology Partner of Formula One™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lgusa.com.
About LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company
The LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company is a leading global mobile communications and information company. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design capabilities, LG creates handsets that provide an optimized mobile experience to customers around the world. LG is pursuing convergence technology and mobile computing products, while continuing its leadership role in mobile communication with stylish designs and smart technology. For more information, please visit www.lgmobilephones.com.
About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. For more information, please visit www.LG.com.
SOURCE LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones)
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RELATED LINKS
http://www.lg.com
Sexy phone!
@werty1432k
indeed! and once again:
http://www.stuartduncan.name/funny/spiderman_came.jpg
@werty1432k
especially the messed up front set of buttons, right?
@dtptampa
Agreed, I hate that look that LG and Samsung phones seem to have.
Otherwise this is what I've been waiting for...a more up to date droid.
[√] "Google Experience" (no Sense/Motoblur)
[√] Hardware keyboard exists
[√] Hardware keyboard doesn't suck
[√] Snapdragon
[√] Verizon Wireless
[√] Not using HTC's crappy PenTile screen
This IS the Droid I've been looking for! Screw the Incredible.
@werty1432k
The only device that maybe will make me replace my beloved Desire (or the HD2 I still use for biznez) will be the Nokia N8 if it delivers all the joys it has promised ; surely not this fuglysome LG contraption.
But since I'm still a bit bitter after the disappointment the N97 turned out to be, this time I guess I'll let someone else check out if Nokia blew it once again or not.
For the forseeable future my HTCs (desire & HD2) are all I need.
In any case LG has its job cut out if it wants to fend off the competition nowadays.
@skyblaze Funny, but freaking ridiculous...
@Elranzer Make it the right price... and they have a deal!(too bad I'min contract till 2011...)
@werty1432k
Sexy... CHECK.
Qwerty.... CHECK.
Direction pad.... CHECK!!
I love it. I hope it comes with a front camera... I know Super AMOLED is too much to ask for, but it would be kewl...
@Elranzer Actually it was also called the LG LU2300. which looks like a rock solid-slider phone from LG. First view. http://j.mp/lg-lu2300-opinions-reactions
@werty1432k
Sexy looking, yes...but did anyone go to the website www.LGIM2.com watch the flash load... It clearly states a 3.2 MP camera... That is extremely not Sexy in my book.,.. The only thing I like so far is the Physical QWERTY Keyboard... but a crap camera, come on. What a waste... :( Guess I should look at the Incredible again...
If it hasn't followed the usual smartphone launch route, they blew it
@SamTatr how could they have blown the lauching of this phone?
Win!
Maybe a less industrial looking Droid?
Okay, I have to ask: Is it me or is Android becoming bland?
I tried out the Droid Incredible at a Verizon store over the weekend and despite the ranting and raving... it feels just like a generic Android handset. Sure, it's got a nice set of specs but it's gotten quite bland when every phone looks alike and acts alike in its' feature set and capabilities.
@dragonfli It's you.
Nothing is bland about Android OS on a super AAA hardware. There are a lot of Android options, oh well. That's good, not bad.
@dragonfli
I think it's just you :D
Even so, you could always download a home replacement (home++ is one of my favs) or root your device, then theme it using Metamorph themes or custom roms/themes. Newer devices will have less options obviously (since they're new to the community), but devs are always working on new stuff. Android has a lot of customization options.
If you're talking about the actual hardware itself being bland, I guess you could wait out for the Motosplit :D
@dragonfli
I check it out this weekend too. I was blown away by it. It looked and felt slimmer than my 2g iphone, the screen was vibrant, and everything about the experience was snappy. No lag, no waiting. I even fired up skyfire and was able to watch flash videos online with it. If I wasn't waiting for the EVO, I would've bought it right then and there!
@dragonfli bland? Thats the point! You buy a stock phone and customize it with apps and addons. You'd be surprised what a simple widget and wallpaper can do.
@BillOwnz
Ha! the two things iPhone OS currently can't do. Of course wallpapers are coming later this year.
@reiththestud *Twirls finger around* Lol, took 'em long enough
@dragonfli You think the Incredible is bland?!
Well that's ok, I'm sure one of the 4,000 new Android phones released every month will remedy that.
I mean if you produce enough handsets you're bound to please someone right :-P
@dragonfli
I don't know... the Incredible's back is pretty unique.
@andthemaniam Check out Zeam if you havent already... its super snappy and actually has a NINE screen option!!
day before sprints big even intresting
@ajac09
Not being released on Sprint.
@VZW611 who said anything about it coming to sprint? Its a day before sprint evo event..
Say hello to more "Andriod Fragmentation". I like Android, however there seems to be a dozen Android phones a week.
@8bit How is this fragmentation? It's a new 2.1 phone.
@JONNNathannn
Loved being “downranked”…
To answer your question. I understand that it is Android 2.1. How long must you wait for LG to push out an update? Please don’t get me wrong, I love the idea of Android!!! You have an open canvas, and each manufacture is tailoring it to their liking. However, I would rather have the updates when they are released like the N1(not having to wait weeks or months). There seems to be a new Android handset released every day. I like seeing the current\future handsets in all sorts of flavors. One question, “How long will the mfg support a Android handset?” Say this new LG Ally is a major flop (not harping on LG)!! Is there a guarantee that LG continue to push updates for a given number of months or years? As of right now there is a risk in buying an Android device.
@8bit "How long must you wait for LG to push out the update?" Not very long considering it ships with 2.1
@TheGM
TheGM, Foolish me your right!!! It ships with Android 2.1, I must have forgotten that 2.1 is FINAL and ONLY release of Android. There will be no more updates the Android OS. There are no more worries of fragmentation, or mfg support of the device.
@8bit
lol
@8bit
if your going to be "downranked to-oblivion", guess you should get for speaking the truth...
saw an add for it in the theater last night; so cheezy, silly, etc. Not a good investment for LG.
I saw a commercial for this on TV sunday -- wondered what the hell it was...it wasn't clear from the commercial that it would be running android, in fact, I thought it was a dumbphone with custom software from LG...they really need better marketing.
Seriously, just put the directional pad on the other side already!
@BoomBlam
Aw sweet! A qwerty slider android phone with snapdragon. Now I can finally play my old roms! Wait, the d-pad is on the right? FFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU
@reiththestud
snesoid allows you to flip the phone upside down so the d-pad is on the right side...
@Rick James
Is it comfortable to hold your phone that way?
@reiththestud
The droid keyboard has never been a comfortable keyboard in general, but it is still very functional. This keyboard on the LG may be much better. But having the droid flipped upside down doesn't bother me or how I play games. I beat both mario 3 and mario world playing like this with very little comfort issues.
Verizon is releasing this. It has HD Video playback and HDMI output.
D-Pad on the left next time plz kthxbai!
@ChazClout
I hear that
@reiththestud
agreed!
@ChazClout
+1
Pass the QWERTY on the left hand side.
To hell with Ally, we want Jarvis!
And Scarlett...
whats this? a rumored device that has not been cancelled?!
Motorola Driod What?