Many phone lovers out there may have spent the last few months eying the sleek and pretty looks of current touch-screen models, waiting for that glorious day when they'd become at least moderately affordable. To the dismay of more than a few users still stuck with an ancient Nokia or observing with envy a co-worker's flashy new iPhone, that day doesn't seem to be rearing its head. But while the vast majority of handsets and touch-screen phones making an entrance on today's market remain an exorbitant splurge at best, there is one model in particular that has been making a good effort towards bridging the gap. LG's Cookie model, the KP500, is like a veritable handshake between the capabilities and aesthetics of a modern touch-screen handset and a more reasonably-priced, basic phone model.

Released in December of 2008, the Cookie has rapidly garnered acclaim for its sensible compromises between high-end and budget-range options. The look and feel of the phone itself is modern and attractive; weighing in at just under ninety grams and small and flat enough to easily slip into a pocket, the Cookie fits well in the hand and exudes a fashionable, sleek sense of style. The functionality of the touch-screen itself, which is a nicely-sized three inch TFT, is complemented by the availability of a small stylus tool. The screen can be easily manipulated through various moves and motions to produce the desired effects; those new to touch-screen functionality may encounter a bit of cumbersomeness initially, but are sure to get the hang of things in time. An attractive 256-color range and smooth, well-designed graphics and themes is appealing and makes reviewing pictures taken with the on-board three megapixel camera all the more pleasant.

The Cookie also features built-in Bluetooth technology, Edge internet connectivity, SMS and email messaging, and a selection of entertaining games, tools, and widgets, with the option to buy or download more. Of course, one wouldn't expect this budget-friendly phone to come stocked with all the modern bells and whistles of a handset, and the Cookie makes no pretense of doing so. A lack of WiFi and many multimedia options may leave the utterly phone-dedicated set a bit disappointed, but the basic functionality and aesthetic appeal of the model coupled with its unbeatable price is a strong draw for users who don't have to have all the latest options.

Back in the days when a phone was intended precisely for communicating via voice with others, the Cookie would have been an astonishing accomplishment of technology and form. And while, amidst its more boastful brethren, it is not the marvel of science and design that it once might have been, it is still very much an impressive device, a useful tool, and an attractive, fun phone. If you're looking for a model that won't burn a hole in your pocket, either literally or in terms of smoking out your wallet, the Cookie is a delicious pick.