The term “Android” often turns one’s thoughts toward the operating system that powers a large number of smartphones these days. That’s because many manufacturers are attracted to the speed and functionality with which the OS works and place it in the smartphones they release. With the Xperia X10, Sony Ericsson has joined the Android movement by providing a practical and versatile phone to consumers.

Sony Ericsson’s Xperia X10 is a wonderful model that certainly makes the company’s presence felt in the cell phone market. Found in rather plain packaging, the X10 offers the user more functions than the simple box hints at. Although the handset is replete with the features with which many Android users are familiar, it is not difficult to master. As a matter of fact, the X10’s Android OS is the 1.6 version rather than the newly launched 2.1. Those customers looking for a familiar interface will welcome this aspect. Those who are concerned about an outdated smartphone need not worry, however, because Sony Ericsson fully intends on providing the X10 with 2.0 family compatibility. X10 users will find the familiar three homescreens found on Android operating systems, all of them fully loaded with the folders, widgets, and shortcuts they are used to. The interface is customized by Timescape and Mediascape. The main menu can be found at the bottom of the screen as needed, another feature that users will find pleasing.

The Xperia X10 carries a screen that dwarfs most other models. Coming in at a whopping 4 inches, it necessitates a larger handset to accommodate its bulk. The sturdy plastic shell of the X10 is 119 x 63 x 13mm, but weighs less than other handsets of that size. The screen’s best feature is its legibility in direct sunlight. The user can still easily perform tasks on the phone without tilting and squinting. The X10’s screen is also full touch and boasts a resolution of 854 x 480 pixels. The aforementioned Android 1.6 platform is somewhat limiting with its 65K colors, but it really does not hinder typical use. And don’t forget that Sony Ericsson has stated that 2.1 is coming for the X10, complete with 16M colors.

An 8 megapixel camera and LED flash are found on the back of the handset. The camera lens is exposed, so care must be taken not to scratch it. The potential for scratching is however lessened due to the fact that the lens is recessed. Sony Ericsson’s Xperia X10 has accomplished the task of making the company a worthwhile smartphone manufacturer. The idea with the X10 was not to create a leading edge phone, but to establish one that performs all of the tasks of similar models with ease and quality. To that end, the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 is a success.