2degrees launched the LG Optimus 2X dual-core smartphone last Friday, which the company says is the first of its kind in New Zealand.

The phone's dual-core technology makes it twice as powerful as regular handsets, according to chief marketing officer Larrie Moore.

Moore said the Optimus 2X is specifically designed to process high-def photos and video, as well as multi-tasking.

The phone retails for $999.

Key Features:

• Tegra 2 Dual-Core 1GHz processor and ULP GeForce GPU
• Android 2.2, upgradable to 2.3 Gingerbread
• 8GB on board memory, with MicroSD (up to 32GB)
• HSDPA 7.2Mbps and HSUPA 5.7Mbps
• An 8 megapixel camera with 1080p full HD video recording and HDMI-Outport
• Slick, sturdy, compact handset, in a black finish