Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Preview

Introduction:

The official announcement of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 was preceded by a long succession of unofficial snapshots and information leaks. The manufacturer, however, decided to finally unveil the new Xperia at the beginning of November. The massive interest the handset enjoys can be easily explained away. First off, it´s Sony Ericsson´s first Android-based cell phone. Second, it´s equipped with absolutely huge, 4-inch screen and all-powerful 1GHz Snapdragon chipset. Third, it sports a personalized Android interface aimed at seamless integration of popular social networks and services and apparently, the X10 has a lot to offer to eager fans of online socializing. Now, let´s take a closer (but still, preliminary) look at this Android.

Design:

We are pleasantly surprised at the overall size of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10. Despite its gigantic 4-inch display, the handset is not notably larger or bulkier than the iPhone. Typically of Sony Ericsson, the design is far from simple and clean. There are three buttons on the front side, respectively one for Android menu, one that takes you to the home screen and one to go back into menus. There are hidden LED indicators on either side of the Home button that lend color and shine to the overall look. The back is rounded and feels comfy in your hand, plus it sports a matt finish that is relatively good at what it´s supposed to do, i.e. prevent the phone from accidentally slip out of your hand.



You can compare the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 with many other phones using our Size Visualization Tool.

As we mentioned, the display measures 4 inches and has native resolution of 480x854 pixels, just like the Motorola MILESTONE (DROID). The image quality is very good with really saturated colours. As becoming of a high-end device, the touch-sensitive screen utilizes capacitive technology and judging by our prototype, its sensitivity is perfect.



All tech buffs will be happy to know that Sony Ericsson has decided in favour of standard 3.5mm jack and microUSB port. This must have been pretty hard a step for the manufacturer, but we are glad the company has made it.



As a whole, we can define the overall design of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 as elegant. Perhaps its specific shapes won´t appeal to everyone, but certainly, many people will fall in love with the concept of the future flagship device of the manufacturer.

Interface and functionality:

It´s hardly a secret that the X10 utilizes personalized interface called UX (comes from User eXperience). The operating system is Android 1.6, but thanks to the personalization pack, the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 offers proper integration of Facebook and Twitter as well as some other online services like Flickr and Picasa.



First and foremost, we need to call your attention to the novelty features in the phone contacts. Aside from the fact that Sony Ericsson has entirely redesigned its look, you also have the option to link your contacts to their corresponding Facebook profiles. Once you´ve done that, your phonebook will show relevant status updates, preview of the last uploaded picture and the last message the particular person has sent you, plus you have quick access to their Facebook profile and gallery. The phone book also allows for browsing of all messages, emails and correspondence exchanged with a contact in threaded style. We have to admit that being able to access all the information you need through a single application feels extremely handy and comfortable.



Timescape is a program of vital importance for the functionality of the UX interface. Those of you who happen to like the standard home screen of Android can stick to its traditional look and start Timescape via dedicated widget. Customers who don’t mind its more personalized face can set Timescape as their preferred home screen.

In practice, the application allows access to various pieces of information. For an instance, you can use it to take a look at the status updates of your Facebook buddies, previews of the messages you have been sent, follow Twitter updates, etc. Everything is wrapped up an eye-candy interface and opening the mobile pages of the relevant online services to get the full information takes just two screen taps.



There are other tabs that show what music you´ve listened to and things like exchanged text messages, pictures taken, etc. grouped in chronological order. You also have the option to quick find information and video content pertaining to artists whose music you´ve listened to.



Mediascape is the other integrally important application of the phone. It´s actually something like a centralized media player that you use to play music and videos or browse picture galleries. You are also allowed to go over images uploaded on Facebook, Flickr and Picasa. The interface of Mediascape is completely in line with the other software, i.e. eye-catchy and really pleasing to use.



Naturally, the other aspect of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 that we are also quite interested in is the 8.1-megapixel camera with Photo light. The manufacturer has personalized its interface and added great many options, including white balance, image stabilization, various focusing modes (macro and touch focus are included), etc. Cool! Taking a look at a preview of the picture you´ve just captured while still in shooting mode is implemented quite nicely as well. The maximum video capture resolution is WVGA. This is a prototype, but still, we couldn’t resist the temptation and took several snapshots, so take a look at them. However, keep in mind that the image quality delivered by retail units might be pretty different.

Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 sample video at 800x480 pixels resolution





Expectations:

If the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 was to be released on the market today, it would be a smashing hit. It comes with great design, eye-pleasing interface and proper integration of social networks and services. Moreover, the X10 has what it takes to win over its rivals in terms of hardware – 4-inch screen, fast 1GHz processor and 8.1-megapixel camera. All this sounds truly impressive, but when do we get to see it hit the shelves? Officially, the Xperia X10 is expected in Q1 2010. We do hope that Sony Ericsson manages to roll out the phone on schedule, because delays equate to an increased number of strong rivals. As of today, however, things are looking good for Sony Ericsson´s first Android device and its future seems serene.

Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Video Preview: