If you’re looking for an impressive and versatile smartphone under $250, Sony Ericsson’s recently launched Xperia X8 might be the phone for you. It’s modeled after the more expensive X10, but it’s much simpler and less expensive. Weighing just 104 grams, the 3″ Android touchscreen device comes to life with a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels. Wi-Fi, 3.5G support, GPS and FM radio are welcome features. Getting started with capabilities For multimedia, Sony Ericsson even includes a Detach 2GB card for its expandable microSD memory slot.
As with most Sony Ericsson products, the X8 is a stylish phone. In fact, it looks much better than most Androids. The only real problem here is the plastic on the back cover, which has a very low-quality feel. Like most Android phones, the menu, home, and back keys are placed directly below the screen. On the right side, you’ll find the volume rocker and one-step camera shutter for quick access. The microUSB port, 3.5mm jack, and power/lock key are located on the top edge.
The X8’s battery life is quite respectable. You will be able to talk on a 3G network for up to 5 hours and 40 minutes. If you’re using advanced applications, you’ll find there’s plenty of processor speed available, thanks to the 600 MHz processor and 128 MB of RAM. This should be enough firepower to tackle just about any request, though it doesn’t match the blistering speed of the best Android phones. The 3.2-megapixel camera interface on the back of the phone is simple and easy to understand, even the video camera. While flash or autofocus would have been nice features if included, the quality of images and videos are well above average, especially when transferred to a computer.
While later versions of the X8 will ship with the Android 2.1 operating system, early buyers of the phone will have to be content with Android 1.6 until the update comes out. However, with the Android Market packed with apps ranging from video games to restaurant guides, software for Android phones is vast, so it’s not hard to ensure all your specific needs are met.
The Xperia X8 has a very modern and sleek look that manages to be small but is still fully functional. For the right demographic market, 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 that Sony is aiming for this by reducing internet browsing capabilities. If you want a reliable phone at a good price and don’t plan on doing much internet surfing, then this is a good option.
