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Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S Android smartphone

Ahead of the curve?

A feature I’ve left until last because I’m not sure how much use it will be – and because I regard 3D in all its forms as a curse and a blight – is the 3D Sweep Panorama function.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S Android smartphone

The on-screen 3D panorama function is only effective through a 3D telly

Using it you can take panoramic photos which appear in 2D on the screen - because the Arc S’ screen doesn't support 3D - but the phone then fiddles with the image using some cunning algorithms and spits out a faux stereoscopic 3D version that you can view using a compatible TV.

I took some shots up on the moors and headed round to a mate’s house to look at them on his 3D Sony telly. Sure, it works well enough, but I struggle to see the reason for it when you can’t appraise the 3D effect on your handset. Grumbles aside, at least the panorama feature also functions in 2D mode.

As for the basics, call quality was better than average with background noise particularly well-damped and, like all recent Xperias, the speaker is very good. Battery life was nothing out of the ordinary though. From my varied usage, I'd say you'd be looking for a power socket every 36-48 hours.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S Android smartphone

Looking for a capable, stylish and affordable Android handset..?

A final word about accessories. In the box with the handset, I was pleasantly surprised to find an 8GB Micro SD card, a mini HDMI cable and an excellent pair of earphones.

RH Recommended Medal

Verdict

The absence of a forward-facing camera aside, I can’t think of anything serious to criticise the Arc S for – it looks stunning, has power and speed to spare, packs a lovely screen and, at around £340, really isn’t that expensive. ®

Thanks to Vodafone for the loan of the review handset.

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Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S Android smartphone

An Android phone that strikes a very fine compromise between price, style, screen size and performance.
Price: £340 RRP

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