LG Electronics Inc., the world's third-largest handset maker, said Sunday that it will launch a new smartphone model here in South Korea next week that targets young consumers who prefer computer-like QWERTY keyboards.

The Optimus Q2 is equipped with a 1.2 GHz dual core processor, 4-inch display, 500 mega pixel built-in camera and wider QWERTY keyboard, as well as being thinner and lighter than its predecessor Optimus Q, said LG in a press release. It also offers WiFi Direct technology that allows mobile devices to talk to each other and share contents without the need for wireless access points.

The new model will be released to the market through the country's smallest mobile operator LG Uplus Corp., said the company.

"The QWERTY keypad smartphone will appeal to young users in their 20s and 30s," said LG. "Its outstanding design and technology will help follow the success of the previous model." (Yonhap News)