Not everyone is interesting in plonking down $750 for the newest, brightest, and best smartphone out there, and just as it always does, we’re now seeing the fruits of last year’s high-end phones make their way into this year’s mid-range models, with Sony outing their new units.
Following up the top-performer Xperia Z, Sony will be bringing two more entries from the Xperia line-up to Australia, with the Xperia SP and the Xperia L.
“Xperia SP and Xperia L are ideally suited for those seeking stylish class-leading smartphones that don’t compromise on features,” said Sony’s Calum MacDougall, Director of Xperia Marketing.
The two handsets are very different in what they offer, with the SP (above) sporting a 4.6 inch HD 720p screen, 1.7GHz dual-core chip, 8GB RAM, microSD, Near-Field Communications, WiFi, Bluetooth, 8 megapixel camera, aluminium frame, 2300mAh battery, and access to the 4G LTE networks on offer in Australia.
It also features the Battery Stamina mode we saw in the Xperia Z, while a small transparent element near the bottom of the handset can change colours and be customised to what you want it to be.
If 4.6 inches is too big for you, Sony will also bring out the Xperia L, which packs in a 4.3 inch screen set against a slightly curved back, similar to what we’ve seen in the Sony Ericsson Arc.
Inside the Xperia L, Sony is packing in a 1GHz dual-core chip, 8GB storage, microSD, 1700mAh battery, Near-Field Communication technology, and the same Battery Stamina mode as the previous Sony models.
Android 4.1 “Jelly Bean” is included here, and while not the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system, it should still come with the special Sony overlay that reminds us of the Sony interface on other devices.
Pricing and availability has yet to be announced, though Sony has said these should be coming before June, so look out for them soon.
