Sony Ericsson Xperia X8 : Is It Worth The Money?
If you are looking for an impressive and versatile smartphone for less than $250, Sony Ericsson's newly released Xperia X8 could be the phone for you. It is modeled after the more expensive X10, but is much more straightforward and less costly. Weighing in at only 104 grams, the 3" Android touchscreen device comes to life with 320 x 480 pixel resolution. WiFi, 3.5G support, GPS, and FM radio are welcomed features. To get started with multimedia capabilities, Sony Ericsson even includes a separate 2 GB card for its expandable microSD memory slot.
As with most Sony Ericsson products, the X8 is one sharp looking phone. In fact, it has a much more appealing look than most Androids. The only real problem here is the plastic on the back cover, which has a very low-grade feel to it. Like most Android phones, the menu, home and back keys are placed directly under the screen. On the right side, you will find the volume control and the one-step camera shutter for quick access. The microUSB port, 3.5mm connector and power/lock key are situated along the top edge.
Behind that plastic back is a battery that lasts up to almost six hours of straight talk time on 3G. There is a state of the art 600MHz processor hiding inside, along with 128MB of RAM, which while substantial is slightly slower than some processors found in other Android phones.
The X8 is equipped with a 3.2 megapixel camera for still shots and video recording. Unfortunately, there is no flash or auto focus here, though the interface is very easy to use, so you can make the adjustments without too many problems. The images from this camera are much sharper than the average smartphone camera produces, something you will really be able to appreciate when you transfer your pictures and video to your computer.
Anyone who rushed out to purchase the X8 will be running the Android 1.6 operating system. However, subsequent productions of the smartphone will yield Android 2.1. (Anyone running the older version will be able to upgrade once available.) Of course, users will be able to customize the device with their choice of apps from the Android Market.
The Sony Ericsson Xperia X8 has a very modern, stylish look that manages to be small yet remain fully functional. For the right market demographic, it provides all the services you could want. So who is the right market demographic? The phone is clearly designed to be affordable, and unfortunately, it seems Sony met this goal by going with reduced internet browsing ability. If you want a reliable phone at a good price and do not plan on doing much internet browsing, then this is a good choice.
Tags: cell phones, communications, mobile phones, smartphones