Nearly all smartphones that are released these days are powered by the Android operating system. When consumers think of the Android OS, they think of speed and functionality. Because of its popularity, smartphone manufacturers often turn to Android technology to power their phones. Sony Ericsson has finally entered the fray by releasing the Xperia X10.
In order to stake their claim as viable smartphone providers, Sony Ericsson has created a remarkable handset with the Xperia X10. The rather sparse packaging does not hint at the complex phone found inside. This complexity refers only to the number of functions the phone performs, not to any difficulty in use. In fact, the Xperia X10 uses Android 1.6 instead of the new 2.1 version, but this is seen as a positive by those looking for familiarity. Besides, Sony Ericsson has planned 2.0 compatibility for the X10. Speaking of familiarity, the established Android interface is found on the phone complete with three homescreens that provide all of the widgets, folders, and shortcuts that users have grown accustomed to. The interface has been customized by way of Timescape and Mediascape. As always, the main menu can be culled from the bottom of the screen when the user needs it.
Covering the majority of the front of the phone is the voluminous screen. Coming in at a full 4 inches, the screen requires that the X10 be created somewhat larger than other smartphone models. This should in no way diminish the enjoyment to be had while reading the screen in direct sunlight, because this phone performs that task better than many similar models. In order to accommodate the large screen, the X10 is 119 x 63 x 13mm. It weighs considerably less than other models this size because of the sturdy plastic from which it is constructed. In addition, the X10s screen maintains a 854 x 480 pixel resolution and is full touch. Because it is based on Android 1.6 technology, the screen is limited to 65K colors, but this really does not reduce the quality of everyday use. It need not be a concern anyway, because the X10 will be able to support Android 2.1 and its 16M colors.
Every smartphone nowadays comes with a camera, and the X10s 8 megapixel version is found on the back of the handset. The lens is exposed, so one must be careful not to scratch it. It is, however, recessed, so that helps prevent damage. An LED flash is useful for close photography. Sony Ericssons Xperia X10 has accomplished the task of making the company a worthwhile smartphone manufacturer. The idea with the X10 was not to create a leading edge phone, but to establish one that performs all of the tasks of similar models with ease and quality. To that end, the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 is a success.
