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Maps
We won't go into much detail with regards to the Google Maps app, as the chances are that you have heard it all before, and have a fairly good understanding of the app through any use on other devices, or through browsing the web on your desktop.
Being possibly the most well known Google product, after its search function, Google Maps was always going to get a lot of love and attention.
As with every iteration on every device, the application is absolutely superb.
Google Maps also includes Navigation software. We've always been impressed by Google's effort here, not least because its free.
There are other Satnav apps available from the Play Store, but for when you're in a spot of bother, Google will easily sort you out.
GPS lock on wasn't the fastest, possibly hindered by the slower processor behind the L5 2, however we were found and had a route planned quickly enough.
Apps
Google's Play Store is pushing Apple further and further in terms of app store population. Split into categories, with general apps and games being split and then split further still.
Usefully, Games and Apps are viewable by Top Free, Top Paid, Top Grossing, Top New Free and Top New Paid, helping to filter out the rubbish.
In the way of preinstalled apps, the LG Optimus L5 2 does come with some useful, and some not so useful apps. For starters there are the standard Google apps such as Google+, Talk, Gmail, Google Play, Play Music and YouTube, alongside the Mapping apps such as Maps, Local and Navigation.
The included *cough* insanely popular Google+ is the only social media offering, with Twitter and Facebook available to download.
We're disappointed that they weren't included, but given that the internal storage is somewhat limited (2.1GB of the 4GB that was quoted), this might prove to be a popular decision.
In the way of non standard apps, LG has provided an Application Manager (that allows you to uninstall certain apps, though none that we downloaded from the Play Store oddly enough), Quick Memo, an app that by standard can be launched from the Quick Button, and allows you take to take notes and doodle on screen shots.
There is also the a Polaris Office viewer, Remote Call Service to allow LG to take over your phone and diagnose problems, as well as Safety Care.
The last one is a particularly interesting app. Whilst in general there is not a whole lot of functionality, should you hit an emergency, it kicks in.
When making a call to the emergency services, or should you not use the phone for a long time, a message is sent out to selected contacts providing details of your location.
LG bill this as ideal for the elderly or for young children. We are very impressed by the apps inclusion, especially as we can see the Optimus L5 being used for young teenagers. In an increasingly dangerous world, it is nice to see OEM's helping keep parent's minds at ease.
