Sony Corp is to buy full control of the Sony Ericsson mobile phone venture from its Swedish partner as it seeks to boost its consumer products offering and to catch up on smartphone and tablet makers such as Apple and Samsung

via Sony buys Ericsson out of mobile phone venture | Reuters.

It’s about time, isn’t it? If anything, it’s rather late in the day. I’d have liked to have seen what Sony would have done with the company 1-2 years ago. Still, I’m excited at the possibilities. Now, perhaps, we will see truly a suite of truly integrated consumer (and mobile) electronics? Come on Sony!

This week we reminisce about the devices we’ve owned and loved over the years. We highlight a few we think were real ‘market changers’, a few lemons and speculate about who might make the next game-changer. Rafe also lets slip the secret of his magic drawers.

Amongst the devices we discuss this week are the:

• SonyEricsson P800
• Sony CMD Z5
• Nokia 6210
• O2 XDA (HTC)
• Nokia N95
• Nokia E61 and E61i
• Nokia N82
• Blackberry 7230
• iPhone 2G
• Orange SPV / HTC Canary
• Nokia 1011
• Motorola RAZR
• Nokia 5110 and 3210 with Xpress-on Covers
• Original Sidekick
• Treo 180

Episode 7 is also available on Soundcloud.

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Instead of bashing away on the keyboard I decided to do an audio opinion on Sony’s Android tablet announcements today.

Posted via email from MIR Live

Interesting times…

TOKYO, April 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Corporation (“Sony”), announces “Sony Tablet” that delivers the perfect combination of hardware, content and network with seamless usability for a high-quality, engaging entertainment experience. Based on decades of engineering heritage, Sony is developing two tablets with unprecedented design, including S1 (codename) which is optimized for rich media entertainment and S2 (codename) which is ideal for mobile communication and entertainment. “Sony Tablet” will become available in the global market starting in fall 2011.

“Sony Tablet” is equipped with the latest Android 3.0 which is designed for devices with larger screen sizes, particularly tablets. Both tablets are WiFi and WAN (3G/4G) compatible and users can not only browse the internet or check e-mail but they can also smoothly access digital content including videos, games and books through Sony’s premium network services and more, on-the-go at any time.

S1 has a 9.4-inch display for enjoying the web and rich content on a large screen. Its off-center of gravity design realizes stability and ease of grip as well as a sense of stability and lightness, offering comfortable use for hours.

S2 has two 5.5-inch displays that can be folded for easy portability. In contrast to existing tablets, its unprecedented dual screen presentation and usability allows its displays to be combined and used as a large screen or for different functions such as playing video on one screen while showing control buttons on the other.

“‘Sony Tablet’ delivers an entertainment experience where users can enjoy cloud-based services on-the-go at any time. We’re aiming to create a new lifestyle by integrating consumer hardware, including ‘Sony Tablet’ with content and network,” said Kunimasa Suzuki, Corporate Executive, SVP, and Deputy President of Consumer Products & Services Group.

“Android 3.0 is a new version of the Android platform with a new holographic user interface that is designed from the ground up for devices with larger screen sizes, particularly tablets. I’m excited about “Sony Tablet” as it will further spur the development of applications and network offerings which users are looking for,” said Andy Rubin, Senior Vice President, Mobile, Google Inc.

Also, in the mobile computing category, the market for PCs which realize high productivity is expected to steadily grow, particularly in emerging markets. Therefore, Sony will also remain committed to strengthening its VAIO brand and introduce increasingly compelling products which offer new value propositions to the market.

“Sony Tablet” features

• Designed for portability and intuitive gripping

With its off-center of gravity form factor, the 9.4-inch S1 offers stability and a sense of lightness, offering comfortable use for hours.

The dual screen S2 comes with two 5.5-inch displays which can be used together as one large screen to browse websites and more. They can also be used for different functions as users can watch a video on one screen and input commands on the other, or check email on one screen and use the other as a soft keyboard.

• Seamless Usability and Performance

Through Sony’s knowhow for combining hardware and software, “Sony Tablet” realizes optimal usability and performance. Because of Sony’s rapid response technologies, users can perform smooth, quick touch-screen operations and enjoy fast and efficient website loading. The keyboard arrangement is also optimized for the large screen, making email and SNS communication a breeze.

• Rich entertainment experiences through various network services

Through Qriocity(1) music and video services, users can enjoy rich video and music content. Also, through PlayStation®Suite, users can immerse themselves in high quality first generation PlayStation® titles. Additionally, users can easily download ebook content from Reader™Store(2) and use both tablets as digital reading devices. The integration with various services allows users to take their entertainment experiences on-the-go. Furthermore, “Sony Tablet” is equipped with functionality that organizes content for easy access.

• Remote access functionality with AV devices

Through “Sony Tablet”, users can control home entertainment devices as well as enjoy content in new ways. S1 uses infrared technology and works as universal remote controls for a variety of AV devices starting with < BRAVIA >. Users can perform functions like turning on their TVs, changing the channel and adjusting the volume. Also, through DLNA functionality on “Sony Tablet”, users can “throw” personal content to large screen televisions or music to wireless speakers.

In 2010, Sony launched a network platform called “Qriocity” which connects many of Sony’s network-enabled devices, and has been expanding its services into global markets. Also, Sony Computer Entertainment has been providing various contents and services for PlayStation users through PlayStation®Network, which now has over 75 million registered accounts (as of March 20, 2011) worldwide.

Simultaneously, Sony will continue to announce various devices which leverage these services. Starting in early 2011, Sony Computer Entertainment announced the next-generation portable entertainment system (codename: NGP) while Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications brought “Xperia™PLAY” to the market. Sony is introducing “Sony Tablet” to deliver an entertainment experience which integrates hardware with network services that deliver rich content.

With the establishment of Consumer Products and Services Group in April 2011, Sony will focus on accelerating the development of innovative next generation products and aim to deliver a new lifestyle by strengthening the integration of hardware and network services.

Well, here I am… Rafe filmed me doing an intro to the device here:

Download M4V Video | Subscribe to Podcast | Embed video

And for anyone who’s interested in the phone, we also got the Sony Ericsson chaps to take us on a walk through of it, here:

Download M4V Video | Subscribe to Podcast | Embed video

I would seriously consider getting one of these ‘for the weekend’. I particularly like the ‘Pro’ which comes with an integrated QWERTY keyboard…

My Mum gets Carphone Warehouse letters in the post; and the other day I arrived home from School, seeking out any interesting post for myself, when I came across a little Christmas brochure. I expected to see the usual mix of non-interesting and far-fetched mobiles, which have very limited appeal to someone who is as indecisive as I.

Then I came across the LG Cookie.

I’m not an LG fan by any means, yes their phones are nice, and I have to say although I appreciate the minor attempts at creativity with their naming processes; previous experiences of LG’s have taught me that they’re not my cup of tea. Should I mention I’m not a fan of their interfaces, or just generally how they work and feel?

However, the Cookie did catch my eye! It looks nice, it’ll be a new experience, it’s a touch-screen (another learning curve), and also the ability to use an on screen QWERTY keyboard, and importantly its price.

I don’t know what to do.

Now this could just be a sporadic urge to go and spend money, and get something just because I’ve seen it, and I like the price; but then I think… LG. An interface I know I won’t like, and will struggle to get grips with, and I fear I’ll see all the flaws in my purchase just after I’ve broken that “unbreakable seal” on the box.

It’s hopeless! I do this with every wonderful find I come across, and I deliberate an item and a possible purchase so much that it either becomes outdated and therefore useless, or I decide I don’t like it although secretly still wanting it, or I’ll find something else to admire and want.

I know for one, I can’t be the only person who does this; and I know for one that it’s probably a good safety precaution my mind has implemented to stop such impulse buying – a trait I really try to avoid at all costs.

Now I wonder, why is it I find mobiles such as the Cookie, and previously before it the LG KS360 before that, and there was also a Sony mobile before that too; why is it I loose interest, and forget about it, and then find some other mobile-crush?

Could it just be that no matter how lovely one major aspect or feature of a phone is say, it’s price, a new built in gadget or a sleek, slender design; it really isn’t enough to make a mobile good, or at-least good enough to buy.

What I’m beginning to see is that mobiles tend to be about one major factor, be it its connectivity, a particular design focus, a built in application, the camera, the media, the price, or its “technological achievements”.  I don’t want just one particularly above average feature as reason to invest in a mobile; I want a device that has equally good features which aren’t just surfing above the acceptable quality in phone.

So my next mobile-crush won’t be on a weak whim, a spur-of-the moment encounter, it’ll be something which offers more than one better than alright feature, and something I won’t fall out of love with.

Feel free to e-mail me anything at Samantha@mobileindustryreview.com

Shutters have come down on the latest CMOS image sensor by Sony, with an all new highest megapixel snap coming into focus.

Ahhh, camera puns – there’s no better way to waste a word count. Seriously though, Sony has just put the wraps on a 12.25 megapixel CMOS Image Sensor named ‘Exmor’ for their upcoming mobile phones.

Also going under the moniker IMX060PQ, and has the industry’s current highest pixel count which is the equivalent to a 12.25 megapixel resolution capable of 4040 x 3032 images.

It’s been designed to not add any unnecessary bulk to the phone, as it only measures up to being 7.5mm in size.

Although no phones have been mentioned as yet in which it might feature, or even a time table for said handsets, it is due to roll off production lines March 2009. Expect them to be seen in phones late next year or just in time for CES 2010.

Especially if you take into account 8megapixals have only just been seen in phones, despite an announcement of a similar nature in 2004

The company is making the camera the USP of the phone, highlighting that it is “so perfect, this whole page was shot on the mobile itself.” Apparently, C905 has the ability to reproduce high quality prints at any size.

Check out the advert on the Mobile Marketing Magazine.

I like the general idea.

But I really don’t like Windows Mobile.

It’s not some weird belief based on a irrational fear or hate of Microsoft.

I don’t like Windows Mobile, generally, because it doesn’t perform for me.

I can’t stand seeing screen-build (i.e. click a command, and wait while the operating system arses about trying to build the various screen elements). I want my mobile experience FAST and reliable.

Windows Mobile is brilliant provided you do everything in a linear fashion. Check email. CLOSE email. Use IM. Close IM. Make call. Hang-up call. Reboot to clear the memory. Open email. Send and receive. Close email.

It’s a brave chap who tries to use his multitasking Windows Mobile handset to — actually — multitask.

Which brings me to the Xperia. Great concept. I’m highly concerned that the device itself will be hobbled by the 6.1 operating system.

On Engadget, they’ve posted a note about the Xperia unboxing.

Oh dear.

I’m about to witness just how good/bad the device is.

Bare in mind I have seen it working — slowly — but those devices were preproduction so you do need to give it the benefit of the doubt.

Engadget pointed at this unboxing video which shows some initial screens working.

I was rather impressed at the panels as shown — the animation appeared pretty good. Until the chap started opening and closing the keyboard and using the (shite) touchscreen. If you’re going to do a Touchscreen, do it like the iPhone. Make it *work* like the iPhone. The iPhone works like you expect a touch screen to do. This poor chap kept on having to draw his finger across the screen repeatedly to get it to work.

Alas, the crap animation is right there. It’s not too bad. But this is the handset on idle. IDLE. It’s not doing anything. You’re simply swapping from panel to panel and flicking about them — and it’s pausing and breaking.

The last thing I want is to be writing an email only to have the device lock up for 10 seconds when a call comes in — because it’s having to try and redraw the screen and access my address book at the same time.

We’ll get our hands on one. At some point. I’m not really minded to go out and buy one myself (£584.99 from Expansys).

So without seeing the final production unit, it’s a tentative Sony Xperia: FAIL from Mobile Industry Review.

Use it on your visor or keep it on your dashboard, it’s a great device for the big/small family car.

Here’s what the sent in:

With the longest talk and standby time on the market, the Bluetoothâ„¢ Car Speakerphone makes staying in touch with friends, colleagues and family on the move even easier.  With superior audio quality and stylish design, this latest car accessory gives you a premium handsfree experience at an affordable price. 
  
London, UK Ã¢â‚¬â€œ September 16, 2008 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Unveiled today, the Bluetoothâ„¢ Car Speakerphone HCB-108 has a sleek Nordic design and lets you talk conveniently when you are on the move – attach easily to a car visor with no wires, no fuss and no hassle. The speakerphone offers market-leading talk time and can be easily switched between vehicles, if you’re used to jumping between a company and family car, or simply use it in the office as a conference speakerphone. Just unclip the speakerphone, swap it over and off you go.

“The new Bluetoothâ„¢ Car Speakerphone HCB-108 is ideal for those who need to keep in touch on the move, and we are thrilled to be able to offer consumers a product with such unrivalled talk time.” said Jacob Sten, Head of the accessories division at Sony Ericsson. “The new Bluetoothâ„¢ Speakerphone HCB-108 is our most affordable car speakerphone in the range, but without compromising on the premium feel and stylish design that you can expect from Sony Ericsson.”

With the impressive 25 hours talk time and a standby time of up to one month, theBluetoothâ„¢ Car Speakerphone HCB-108 lets you enjoy crystal clear conversations and superior true duplex audio quality with echo reduction, noise cancellation and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) for longer than ever.

The Bluetoothâ„¢ Car Speakerphone HCB-108 will be available in selected markets from early Q4 in the colours Black and Silver. It will be showcased at the Paris Car Show, in conjunction with Saab, from October 4, 2008.

Read more about other car accessories at www.sonyericsson.com/car

The Bluetoothâ„¢ Car Speakerphone HCB-108 at a glance

Accessories
In-Box:

• Bluetoothâ„¢ car speakerphone HCB-108
• Visor clip
• Cigarette lighter adapter CLA-61
• User guide/Bluetoothâ„¢ warranty leaflet

Facts and Figures 1)2)

• Size: 119 x 61 x 14 mm
• Digital Signal Processing DSP
• Noise cancellation
• Echo reduction
• Bluetoothâ„¢ 2,0

• Weight: 93 grams (inc clip)

• Colours:
• Black
• Silver

• Talk time: Up to 25 hrs
• Standby time GSM/GPRS:
• Up to 700 hrs

Availability and versions

Available in selected markets from early Q4 2008.

Ricky kindly sent me over a link to a piece of “why” news; O2 who recently stopped subsidising their top end phones, have decided to subsidise them again! Well, at least on two phones, the Samsung Tocco and Sony C902.

The Samsung Tocco, Sony C902 and Nokia N95 were all raised to a £75-per-month tariff, but only the Tocco and C902 have been reduced. They are now subsidised on a £35 tariff.

Amazingly O2 have decided against subsidising the Nokia N95, and as Ricky mentioned to me… Couldn’t this cause a stir between the giant manufacturer and the mobile network? Maybe even Nokia penalising O2 by not giving them exclusive launches or something dramatic along those lines.

Personally, I don’t quite understand what O2 were trying to achieve with this, yes okay, they were hoping that other networks were going to follow suit; but who in their business-thinking-right-mind would make existing and/or potential customers pay more in the current credit climate?

Vodafone made me question them the other week too, with their higher prices they’ve introduced. They may be trying to make money here, but surely out-pricing yourself from the high-street competition isn’t the best way to do it, is it?

As for Nokia and O2, what’s going to happen here! I fear O2 are making some risky moves here, which I seriously doubt will pay off; and if Ricky has guessed correctly, this could affect them in the future too.

I wonder what they will do next!

The new C905 Cyber-shotâ„¢
Take your best shot

- Complete digital camera experience on a phone – true digital camera styling and an 8.1 megapixel camera with Xenon flash
- Outstanding picture quality – complete with face detection auto-focus, smart contrast and image stabiliser
- From baby’s first steps to an amazing sunset; store them all on the included 2GB Memory Stick Micro™ (M2®)
- The USB adaptor (CCR-70) provided in-box allows for easy transfer of your photos to-and-from your PC
- View high-quality pictures on the phones impressive 2.4” scratch-resistant mineral glass display
Share your memories – send your photos wirelessly from your phone to your TV via Wi-Fi™ (using DLNA), or connect with wires using the TV-Out Cable ITC-60, also announced today
- Upload photos to your own online blogsite or print your photos with fantastic resolution up to A3 size
Much more than a camera phone – GPS-enabled for geo-tagging of photos and navigation support

I’ll see if we can get hold of one of these and give it a run through.