MetroPCS Communications, a nationwide provider of no annual contract, flat-rate wireless service, is now offering the Spirit, a 4.5-inch touchscreen Android smartphone from LG Electronics, on its 4G network.

According to its fourth quarter report, the company has now surpassed 2.2 million 4G LTE subscribers, an increase of 117% from the third quarter of 2012. (The wireless carrier ended the fourth quarter of 2012 with 8.9 million subscribers in total. A merger with T-Mobile was announced in October 2012.)

Featuring Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), the Spirit's large touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass also keeps in line with the growing trend: bigger is better when it comes to displays.

The smartphone has a 1.2GHz dual-core processor and 2150mAh battery. The 5MP rear camera has an LED flash, cheese shutter and time catch shot. A 1.3MP front camera can be used for video chat.

In addition, the new smartphone features 1080p true-to-life HD video recording and QuickMemo for on-screen notation.

MetroPCS' 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot service is available for an additional monthly charge.

In addition, the official joyn app, which can be downloaded via Google Play and the metro App Store, allows users to share content with enriched services such as integrated instant messaging or chat, WiFi and video calling.

MetroPCS' 4G LTE rate plans begin at $40 which is in line with another trend os so-called affordable phones. The LG Spirit 4G is available in stores and online at www.metropcs.com for $199 plus tax after $70 mail-in rebate.