Verizon Wireless Launches LG Versa with Detachable Keyboard. Does This Make Sense?

Typing on touchscreens can be frustrating. But we’re not sure this is the answer. Verizon Wireless and LG today announced the appropriately named Versa phone. The device comes with a detachable QWERTY keyboard that you can connect to the phone when you need it, or leave at home when you don’t. We suppose the concept will appeal to those who think the LG Voyager is too bulky and who want the option of having a more tactile typing experience. But we can’t help but wonder if a well-designed touch keyboard would make this add-on unnecessary. Disagree with us? Sound off in the poll. That’s just our initial impressions though. Hopefully, the whole package will feel good in our hands when it arrives later today. Other major highlights of the Versa are an animated 3D interface for the 3-inch touchscreen and a Web browser that supports Flash (we’re assuming Flash Lite so don’t get too excited) and up to three open windows. Updated: See our full review of the LG Versa. Like most Verizon devices these days, the Versa also supports V CAST Music with Rhapsody and V CAST Video, as well VZ Navigator for turn-by-turn GPS action ($9.99 per month). The Versa also features Visual Voicemail, a 2-MP camera, and a microSD slot for storing up to 16GB of additional storage. The Versa will be available on March 1st for $199 with a 2-year contract and aftera a $50 mail-in-rebate.