Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Preview
Share:
Our Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Review is now published - click here to read it.
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.
 |
The home screen of the |
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.
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
Sony Ericsson has entirely redesigned the phonebook | |||
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.
 |  |  |
The Timescape application allows access to various pieces of information | ||
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.
 |  |  |
The Mediascape is actually something like a centralized media player | ||
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
 |  |  |  |
The camera interface of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 | |||
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
Outdoor photos taken with the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 | |||
 |  |  |  |
Strong light | Medium light | Low light | Darkness |
Indoor photos made with flash on | |||
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:
Our Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Review is now published - click here to read it.
Share:
Related phones
11 Comments
1. fsjon posted on 20 Oct 2010, 01:55 0 0
Really hope the retail unit will be fully optimized. Even with the 1Gz processor, it still seems very sluggish when switching between tabs...
2. keimonen posted on 04 Dec 2009, 11:14 0 0
Seems that only Timescape and Mediascape are laggish. Rest of the OS and other apps seem to run very well. Hopefully theyll get the 'scapes optimised by launch.
10. pixlas posted on 12 Jan 2010, 09:50 0 0
Yeah, seeing clips from the CES fair the 'scapes are working great. I want one noooooow!
3. Teknologic (unregistered) posted on 04 Dec 2009, 12:55 0 0
Are there plans for a CDMA version of this phone?
4. SamTime posted on 04 Dec 2009, 13:41 0 0
It's not likely that a global phone like this will come out in a CDMA version unless a company like Verizon or Sprint specifically asks for one and chooses to subsidize it. Otherwise if you're selling it unlocked, it's easier and makes more sense to make GSM phones. If you are with Verizon, I'd probably take the Droid over this right now based on a few factors. First, from what I've seen, the X10 software needs LOTS of optimization. It shouldn't be lagging like it is. Second, the Droid is a Google Experience phone and the first to run Android 2.0. The impression I've gotten from Xperia X1 users is that SE has neglected WM updates for them. I'd be afraid that SE will end up dumping this on the dev community as well (since it's running its custom UX, Rachel, the phone would need updates from SE and not Google). With the Droid, you'll recieve the latest updates straight from Google (Google Experience devices always get updates first). Third, and this is my personal preference, the Droid has a physical keyboard. I like having physical keyboards. I feel like I make less mistakes on them. Fourth, and we'll have to wait for a production unit X10 to come out first, with a fast processor and large, vibrant screen, how will the battery fare? We don't know yet how much of a drain the great hardware will be on the battery. Do you really want a phone that needs to be recharged by noon?
5. Teknologic (unregistered) posted on 04 Dec 2009, 14:59 0 0
Word. I was just curious at this time because I am doing exactly what you assumed--looking at alternatives for the Droid. I originally planned to get the Droid the first day it came out, but unforseen circumstances are making me wait a few months before I can comfortably afford it. I figured, in the mean time, I'd look at the upcoming Android phones and see if anything fares well vs the Droid. I'm glad you let me know about the whole SE vs Google update scenario, as that is a huge turn-off enough to be a deal-breaker for me. I was mostly intrigued by the 8.1 MP camera available on the X10. I imagine the battery life would have problems simply because the screen is so huge and I'll probably be using my phone as my primary media device; music in the car in lieu of an iPod, GPS navigation in the car, and--of course--making phone calls. I'll keep an eye on the phone regardless to see if anything improves or if Sony Ericsson makes drastic changes to their plans. They already gave up the proprietary connections (3.5mm and microUSB!), so who knows, maybe they will open the software options up a bit as well? One can only hope. :) Thanks!
7. Literati posted on 07 Dec 2009, 15:26 0 0
Eh, this phone just isn't going to sell well here in the States. Super phone enthusiasts with money to spend might pick it up, but this thing definitely isn't aimed at the average consumer, and as such, it won't be as big a hit as you guys are claiming.
8. Chromemember posted on 14 Dec 2009, 19:26 0 0
This isn't an average phone so why would you assume it is aimed at the average consumer.
9. pixlas posted on 12 Jan 2010, 09:48 0 0
The 8mpix is worth so much more than the thickness and weight of adding a qwerty. I'd say X10 beats Droid any day but has challenge against Nexus. Being a SE fan I hope they'll make it soon enough. I am dying to get an Android phone. The 'scapes seems to be improved too if you look at the youtube movies or the official blog blogs.sonyericsson.com/products At the Barcelona fair they will probably show off a finished software. Looking forward to that
