Although Sony Ericsson's GreenHeart proposal does tend to come across as a small disingenuous -- specially whenever you take into account the vast quantity of mobile phones that end up as nothing much more than landfill -- it's certainly a step in the appropriate direction. The Elm and Hazel marked the opening shots of this righteous eco-warrior campaign, and impressed us with their functionality and range of features. The Sony Ericsson Cedar continues the very good work achieved by its forebears, and proves that being sympathetic to Mother Nature does not need to mean being saddled with an ugly phone. The Cedar is arguably one of Sony Ericsson's much more attractive offerings of late, combining a two-tone colour scheme with smooth lines along with a visually pleasing, ridged keypad.
The elegant two-tone finish is complemented by the embossed Sony Ericsson logo on the back, although the slightly raised-up join between the front and back covers provides a comfy grip to stay away from the slinky phone slipping from your hand. As the handset is slightly oddly weighted, dropping it's a distinct possibility. It does feel a small plasticky in the palm of the hand, but then this acts as a reminder that even though your phone may feel a tad flimsy, a minimum of you're performing your bit to save the planet. The button layout is fairly standard, you'll find Option and Back buttons directly under the screen, along with a multidirection key surrounding the Confirm button. You'll also come across the usual Start and End call buttons denoted by the tell-tale green and red telephone receiver icons. The ridged keypad is fantastic to use and also the slanted buttons make it quick to differntiate between the keys to ensure that you don't end up with too several typos, even when speed-texting. The chassis also houses a Micro-USB port for quick charging along with a 3.5mm jack for plugging inside your headphones.
The 2.2-inch TFT LCD screen is really a small on the little side, even though it does the job, despite its reasonably low 240 x 320-pixel resolution. It can handle video playback, even though the images do tend to look a small soft and blurry, so it's not truly suited for long-term watching. The video section of the Media folder features a direct link to YouTube to ensure that it is possible to search and stream videos with out having to use the somewhat awkward browser.
The lack of a touchscreen or QWERTY keypad means that utilizing the alphanumeric buttons makes web browsing a bit of a trial. It can take a although for information to load over the 3G connection, even though obviously it's a considerable step up from utilizing entry-level GPRS. The Access NetFront web browser is really a bit unwieldly to use, particularly when it comes to web pages that have a lot of images.
The Cedar's 2MP camera performs precisely like you think it does- it isn't the worst thing ever but it certainly isn't incredibly very good. The images we shot with the camera had oversaturated colors and pretty low levels of details. The very good news was that it performed like any 2MP camera would and it kept noise levels in check.
There's a little selection of widgets that will be parked on the property screen, which includes Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, Notes along with a clock. Considering that this isn't truly smartphone, this is really a nice glimpse of high-end functionality, even though inevitably the Twitter and Facebook are rather much more clunky than those that you'd get from iTunes or Android Market. The Twitter widget in specific appears to refresh at a snail-like pace and only a rudimentary selection of functions is provided, which includes tweeting, replying or retweeting. There's also a shortcut to Facebook in the Messaging folder.
The phone's biggest challenge is finding an audience. It might be argued that the sector of the market it seeks to conquer is rapidly falling to budget smart phones, against which the Cedar looks technologically anaemic. If you're searching for a device with impressive features but don't want a confusing selection of PC-like alternatives to contend with, we suggest it. Who knows -- its environmentally focused manufacturing ethos could even make you feel very good about your self.
Sony Ericsson Cedar Review
Xperia Phones : What To Look Out For
The cell phone manufacturer Sony Ericsson dived straight into the smartphone market in 2008 by introducing the Xperia X1. Since then there have been 7 different models released under the Xperia name and they have become an important participant in the highly competitive smartphone market. Sony Ericssons particular niche has involved a strong position in marketing to those who have an interest in music. A summary follows of some of Sony Ericssons Xperia options.
The Xperia X10 as mentioned was Sony Ericssons first entry into the smartphone market, and this phone entered with a bang being the first to introduce a large 4 touch-screen. The phone appeals to those interested in social networking through their smartphones by utilizing their trademark Timescape UI, which allows users to participate on all of their social networks from one spot their smartphone. A powerful 1 GHz processor runs Android version 2.1 OS. This phone has a nice 8 mega-pixel camera, which can be used for still photos or for 720p HD video.
The Xperia X10 Mini / Mini Pro are very similar to the original X10. The X10 Mini and Mini Pro are two very similar cell phones aside from a slide out keyboard and removable battery. The X10 Mini has a 2.55-inch capacitive touch-screen and a 600 MHz processor. The unit runs Android 2.1 OS. Both of these units have the same Timescape UI that is installed on the X10. These two smaller versions have a 5 mega-pixel camera. For many, these smaller models may serve them better due to their compact size and slide out keyboards. The performance quality of these smaller units is nearly identical to the X10.
If you are looking for a power packed smartphone at a reasonable price consider the Xperia X8. This phone is a bit smaller on the face, but is thicker overall than the Xperia X10. This phone comes with Android 1.6 OS, which can be upgraded, to Android 2.1 OS. As is becoming the industry standard for smartphones, the X8 comes with GPS, 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity and a 600 MHz processor. There is a 3-inch capacitive touch-screen, which has a slightly lower resolution than the X10.
Sony Ericsson fans have a lot to choose from with the Xperia line of smartphones. Android OS and a full range of standard features will satisfy even the most discerning smartphone shoppers.
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A Selection Of The Best Sony Ericsson Xperia Phones
Cell phones have evolved from simply acting as a mobile telephone into smartphones that can surf the internet and download movies and music. In 2008, Sony Ericsson introduced the Xperia smartphone, a handset designed to focus on the entertainment capabilities of cellular technology. Helping to pull the company out of the sales doldrums, the Xperia phones have become Sony Ericssons premiere models, but which are the best?
Possibly at the top of the list is the Xperia X10. It is the culmination of a few years of taking what worked on previous models and improving upon it. It is an Android phone, utilizing the 2.1 OS with a speedy 1 GHz Snapdragon processor. Using the phone will likely not lead to eye strain, as the screen has a whopping 4-inch display. The keyboard is totally virtual, but it is very responsive and accurate, leading to fewer typing errors. An 8 megapixel camera ensures that photos will appear with a lifelike vibrancy, especially with the help of 3264 x 2448 pixel resolution. Movies are rendered in HD at 720p. The X10 maintains Sony Ericssons Timescape user interface that lets the user easily and quickly view and update his status on Facebook and Twitter. It is a social networking powerhouse.
Users who dont need all of the bells and whistles and the price tag they bring but still want the essential Xperia experience will be happy with the Xperia X10 Mini. It is still quick, running on Android 2.1 OS with a 600 MHz processor. The screen is much smaller than the X10, measuring only 2.55 inches, but that is still enough to get the job done for those who arent interested in watching the entire Star Wars anthology on their cell phone. The X10 Mini comes with the Timescape user interface, so social networking is identical to that found on the X10. Because of the smaller screen, texting is not as easy on the X10 Mini, but the Mini Pro has a slide out keyboard. This phone is nearly the same as the X10 Mini.
For customers who are looking to keep their bank account out of harms way, the Xperia X8 is a nice smartphone that operates on the Android 1.6 OS with the capacity for a 2.1 upgrade. To save costs, the screen measures 3 inches and the body is slightly larger than the X10. It still presents the familiar user interface of its cousins, making it a true Xperia phone for those on limited budgets.
These Xperia phones are the latest and best of the line. Based on previous successes, they bring the best of what Sony Ericsson has to offer. There is plenty of entertainment and function to keep a wide array of users happy.
The Sony Ericsson Xperia X8
The Sony Xperia X8 is one of the hottest new phones from Sony-Ericsson, and is packed with all of the features that make the phone one of the best in its class. Its a phone that is comfortable in size, has a beautiful high resolution screen, and all the processing power necessary to effectively run the Android OS. Combined with WiFi, 3G internet capability, and Bluetooth, its also perfect for all your wireless needs.
One of the brightest features of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X8 is the 3, 16 million color touchscreen with HVGA resolution. With this screen, your phone will display pictures as well as streaming video in bright, clear, colors. Whether youre showing off photos or watching streaming videos on Youtube, you will see video as was intended to be displayed. And with its scratch-resistant screen, you wont have to worry about damaging the phone when youre banging it against your keys or change in your pocket.
The phone also has a 600 MHz processor and 128 MB of internal RAM, providing the perfect amount of processing power to run the Android OS and all the applications that come with it. And if thats not enough, it also comes with 2 GB of storage in the form of a MicroSD card. So whatever youre downloading, or whatever youre filming, theres plenty of room on the Sony Xperia X8. And if youre not happy with the amount of storage, you can always upgrade the MicroSD card to one with more gigs of storage.
The video capture capability and camera is also more than adequate. The Xperia X8 comes with a 3 megapixel camera, which is more than adequate for day-to-day photos. And the camera comes with added benefits of geotagging, and VGA capture at more than thirty frames per second. This means that you can upload video or pictures to your social networking site, showing where you are, and you can also capture full-speed video with no frame lag.
With respect to its wireless connectivity the Xperia X8 is definitely a winner. 802.11 b/g connectivity comes standard, as does Bluetooth 2.1. With these capabilities you can, among other things, tether wireless devices to your phone and access 3G service. And if in the area of a WiFi network, you can log on with your phone and use the internet on that network. Bluetooth connectivity means that your headset, headphones, or other wireless device will work seamlessly. So if you have a host of wireless devices you plan to connect to your Xperia X8, you wont be left in the dark.
In the end the Xperia X8 is an extremely functional unit that brings together all of the capabilities weve come to expect in a modern Android phone. Even though its not the fastest gadget on the market, it runs well enough for Android and can handle most any obstacles thrown its way. The HSDPA 3G internet means that youll have broadband speed internet access wherever you go, and you can keep plugged in to all your web or app-based internet sites. Its bright HVGA display will never leave you in the dark, and with all the storage you need on MicroSD, youll never run out of space.
Reviews Of Popular Sony Ericsson Xperia Smartphones
Sony Ericsson, the cell phone manufacturer with a reputation for their strong emphasis on music, is a big player in the competitive market for smartphones. In 2008, Sony Ericsson successfully penetrated the smartphone market with the release of the Xperia X1. To date, 7 Xperia models have been created based on various platforms and the popularity of these smartphones has been picking up with each release. Now, let us take a look at some of the recent Xperia options available.
Xperia X10 - The Xperia X10 is one of the first handsets to boast a magnificent 4-inch capacitive touchscreen. Sony Ericsson had dedicated a huge budget to advertise its flagship multimedia phone and the beautiful social networking interface. A strong combination of capabilities and elegance propelled the Xperia X10s success, as it became one of the most desired smartphones around. The trademark Timescape UI in the Xperia X10 collects updates from your social networks and feeds them to an interactive 3D timeline. The smartphone has a high-end 1Ghz processor that operates Android version 2.1 OS. In addition to first class mobile social networking capabilities, the Xperia X10 has an impressive 8 MP camera that supports HD videos (720p) and images (3264x2448 pixels).
Xperia X10 Mini / Mini Pro - If you are considering the Xperia X10 Mini and Mini Pro smartphones, you should understand that they are, for the most part, very similar. The only real differentiation lies in the slide out QWERTY keyboard that is present in the X10 Mini Pro. Both the Xperia X10 Mini and Mini Pro smartphones have a 600 Mhz processor that operates Android 2.1 OS. They both have a 2.55 inch TFT capacitive touchscreen with 16M colors. The compact smartphones come with a 5 MP camera and the Timescape UI that is identical to the Xperia 10. That means you will be able to enjoy social network integration on the same appealing 3D interface. One of the downsides of a smaller touchscreen is the virtual keyboard. The small keys create opportunity for loads of frustrating typing mistakes. Hence, users who often draft emails or modify documents on the go are recommended to get the Xperia X10 Mini Pro - it comes with a slide out physical keyboard.
Xperia X8 - The Sony Xperia X8 is a smartphone that comes with an affordable price tag. The phone looks like a smaller version of the Xperia X10, although it is slightly thicker. The phone operates the Android 1.6 OS but it can upgraded to Android 2.1 OS. The Sony Xperia X8 is an affordable alternative to the costly large screen smartphones. The 3.0 Inch capacitive touchscreen compliments the Xperia interface perfectly. Although the Xperia X8 does not come with state-of-the-art hardware, it offers great value for money.
Whichever Xperia phone you opt for, you won't be disappointed, so which one you choose is up to you!
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