WMPoweruser.com

We have seen screenshots and video of LG’s S-class user interface, and while there is no arguing its pretty, many have also complained that it looks cluttered and confusing.

It seems the not everyone agrees, as LG just won an iF Communication Design for the 3D S-Class User Interface featured on the LG Arena. LG wont a Gold in the Product Interfaces category against 1367 other entrants for the UI’s user-friendliness in  operation and superiority in design.

“Through recognition from this prestigious organization, LG has once again proven its design expertise and innovation not only in physical appearance but also in user interface,” said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “LG will continue to lead with products that enhance the user experience.”

The LG Arena has already sold more than 500 000 devices in 3 months mainly on the strength of the user interface, and the software will be features on the Windows Mobile powered LG-GM730.

LG claims the UI greatly simplifies navigation and makes multimedia features easier to use. By applying 3D effects and transitions, virtual elements look and act more like real, physical objects. Essentially, the S-Class UI acts as one would expect it to, making operation highly intuitive and reducing the learning curve for the user.

LG intends to roll out the UI to all its high-end devices, and to introduce potential customers to the UI LG will launch a global promotional campaign, which allows customers to try S-Class on their PCs. At LG’s website, visitors can download a desktop widget and 3D screen saver, as well as play 3D games. LG’s widget demonstrates how the interface works and offers the same experience as an  S-Class equipped phone by duplicating the functionality of the UI. The downloadable screensaver is based on the S-Class UI’s cube layout theme and it is customizable with a variety of animated clocks that include moving and spinning 3D cubes. The software will be available at sclassui.lgmobile.com.

LG is set to be a key Microsoft Windows Mobile partner, with the company pledging to launch 50 Windows Mobile powered handsets over the next 3 years.