Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY Android Phone (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am not going to spend a lot of time listing 'specs' because Amazon's page has them all, well organized and in detail. Instead, I will discuss our experience with the PLAY from a gamer's point of view because I can't see anyone but a gamer considering this.
BRIEF ASSESSMENT
The Xperia PLAY attempts to combine an advanced Android phone with a portable gaming platform resembling the PSP or rather the PSP Go hoping that the integrated whole will turn into something more than the sum of its parts but, in my view, what we get is a good, solid gadget that fails to come close to 'best in class' in either the smart phone or the portable gaming platform categories. There are many smart phones that outperform it (better, faster, dual-core CPUs) and outfeature (4G, HDMI, DLNA support) the Xperia PLAY and, while it superficially resembles the PSP Go, the PLAY only accepts games specifically converted to work with it, meaning that you'll have to buy them again and, at least at the time I am writing this review, it can't access Sony's PSN store. While you can play Android games, you will need to find 'PLAY optimized' titles if you are to take advantage of the PSP-like game pad.THE GOOD
Again, neither the phone component or the PSP-like transformation are bad, they are quite good and here is what I liked about them:
- Android 2.3. It's not the latest in Android but I was assured that upgrades are forthcoming.
- Decent battery life. Sure, you can't play or stay on the phone forever but unless all you do is play and stay on the phone all day one charge per day should be sufficient.
- Good 'game pad' integration. You go into 'game mode' the moment you pull out the pad.
- Bluetooth, GPS, Wi-Fi available and working well. Also a microUSB port.
- Very nice stereo speakers. They work well with the games and, as a bonus, you get better than decent sound in 'speaker phone' mode.
- A couple of very nice preloaded apps: Kindle, Google Maps, YouTube, Skype Mobile,Twitter and Facebook integration.
- 8GB microSD card included but you can replace it with a larger one, of course.
- PSP Go like controls including some innovative implementation of the 2 analog joysticks as touch-pads.
- Lots of preloaded games (I will list them at the bottom of this review)THE BAD
- Single-core CPU makes it a relatively slow performer as a smart phone.
- Lack of HDMI port and DLNA support makes it a poor multimedia gadget.
- The display is not that bright, probably to conserve battery life.
- The cameras are okay but barely so and the flash is not that bright.
- The touchpads meant to replace the analog joysticks are not always responsive.
- As a phone, it's a little on the bulky side.
- Not all Android games can be played in the game mode. It's confusing and it can be frustrating.
- Can't play PSP or PSOne games unless adapted, meaning that you need to buy them again.RATING
I am going to give the PLAY 3 stars which means "it's Okay". It's an interesting concept and it works to some degree but someone who wants an Android phone and a serious portable gaming platform may be better off with an actual Android phone and a PSP or a PSP Go. I am giving it 3 stars and not 2 stars because my kid (the one who didn't have a PSP) decided that it was good enough for him and he's using it now. Thanks to the large number of preloaded games and to the availability of some PLAY-friendly Android games we didn't have to buy any old games again yet.___________________________________________________
These are the game that came preloaded:
* Adrenalin
* Asphalt 6
* Bruce Lee Dragon Warrior
* Crash Bandicot
* Madden NFL 11
* Star Battalion
* Tetris (Android mode only)
* The Sims 3
--
>> Brush your teeth, it's the law!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)


A full-featured Android mobile phone, the Xperia PLAY by Sony Ericsson for Verizon Wireless is also the world's first PlayStation certified smartphone--providing the ultimate mobile gaming experience. Get your game on with the high-res 4-inch multi-touch screen and slide-out game pad, which reveals a directional keypad, dual analog touch joystick, two shoulder buttons, and the four iconic PlayStation symbol keys--circle, X, square, and triangle.

The Xperia PLAY pairs the Android 2.3 Gingerbread operating system with a 1 GHz Snapdragon II processor and an Adreno 205 graphics processor for a faster overall experience and totally immersive gaming. Stereo sound adds additional depth and dimension to gaming, music and video, and the VGA front-facing camera enables easy video chat with fellow gamers.

In addition to high-speed connectivity on the fast and reliable Verizon Wireless 3G network, you can also share the built-in 3G Mobile Hotspot via Wi-Fi among five devices--laptop, another phone, MP3 player, and more (additional service charge). And with Skype Mobile capabilities, you'll get unlimited Skype-to-Skype calls and IM while in the U.S. to anywhere in the world.

Other features include a pre-loaded 8 GB microSD memory card (with 2 GB of pre-loaded games), 5-megapixel rear camera/camcorder, Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo audio streaming, GPS turn-by-turn directions via free Google Maps with Navigation, access to both personal and corporate e-mail, and up to 7.7 hours of talk time.

Pre-Loaded Content
The Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY comes pre-loaded with seven game titles including, Madden NFL 11 (EA Sports), Bruce Lee Dragon Warrior (Digital Legends), Asphalt 6: Adrenaline (Gameloft), The Sims 3 (EA), Star Battalion (Gameloft), Crash Bandicoot (Sony PlayStation) and Tetris. You can expand your video game library with even more game titles available for download via V CAST Apps.

Android Gingerbread Operating System
The Xperia PLAY runs the Android 2.3 operating system (dubbed "Gingerbread")--the fastest version of Android available for smartphones yet. It features a cleaner, more refined interface with new icons, improved top notification bar, and more intuitive navigation. Multitasking in Gingerbread allows you the ability to run more than one app at a time. If you're playing a game, you can easily switch to an incoming email and then switch back to the game without losing your place.

A new onscreen keyboard makes it easier to type thanks to additional spacing between the keys and larger font sizes. And the more you use the keyboard, the easier typing will be as the enhanced suggest feature records previous input history to make better suggestions.

And like the previous version of Android ("Froyo"), Gingerbread provides support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for access to the full Web.

The Xperia PLAY also brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services you use every day, including Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps with Navigation, Google Calendar, Picasa, and YouTube. It also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you'll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets, and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.

Reliable 3G Network
With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps.

Vital Statistics
The Xperia PLAY weighs 6.17 ounces and measures 4.68 x 2.44 x 0.63 inches. Its 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 7.7 hours (460 minutes) of talk time, and up to 405 hours (16+ days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV-DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.
What's in the Box
Xperia PLAY handset, rechargeable battery, GreenHeart wall/USB charger, 8 GB microSD card, 3.5mm adapter, quick start guide

Verizon Wireless Services Visual Voice Mail
This innovative service enables you to delete, reply, and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.
VZ Navigator Capable
With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.

Click here for more information about Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)

Read More...

Motorola DROID X2 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got my Droid x2 on May 20th. I came from a Droid X, and previously a Droid 1. Even though this phone is not running Gingerbread yet, the Menus, and interface are much improved over the original Droid X. The Screen can be described as richer. It has more contrast, and the colors are better. The Camera is Much faster, and I feel takes much nicer pictures than the X. One major advantage for me is that it fits in my Car Dock, and my cases. How many times have you changed phones only to have to buy all new accessories. If you are just moving to a Droid phone, this is the fastest phone on the market now. I see people crying that it is not 4g.. I have never felt there was anything I could not download fast enough. My 3G Streams video,loads games, you name it. If I have something big to download, the phone is great on WiFi.. and the DX2 is even faster there. The Battery seems to be about the same even with the much faster Processor.
Like the Ad says the Droid does.. and the Droid X2 does twice as fast.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Motorola DROID X2 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)


Fly through the Web with the 3G-enabled Motorola DROID1 X2 from Verizon Wireless, which bumps up the speed thanks to its dual-core 1 GHz processor. And it's complemented by a 4.3-inch qHD touchscreen display, which offers a rich 24-bit color depth and a 960 x 540-pixel resolution for extremely sharp images. The sequel to the original DROID X pocket-sized home theater, the DROID X2 also includes HDMI high-definition output for HD 1080p mirroring on an external monitor or HDTV as well as HD 720p video recording capabilities.

Powered by the Android 2.2 operating system, the DROID X2 will be updated to Android 2.3 "Gingerbread" platform to take advantage of its more refined interface, improved multitasking, and Voice Action capabilities. It also offers support for the Adobe Flash Player 10.1, enabling you to experience rich content online without compromise.

In addition to high-speed connectivity on the fast and reliable Verizon Wireless 3G network, you can also share the built-in 3G Mobile Hotspot via Wi-Fi among five devices--laptop, another phone, MP3 player, and more (additional service charge). And with Skype Mobile capabilities, you'll get unlimited Skype-to-Skype calls and IM while in the U.S. to anywhere in the world.

The large touchscreen display offers pinch-to-zoom functionality and reveals a spacious virtual keyboard, where you can type and text with ease at more than 50 words per minute with Swype using one continuous finger motion across the screen keyboard.

You'll be able to link your phone's contacts to other accounts, such as Facebook, Yahoo, Twitter, and LinkedIn as well as update a unified calendar with Gmail and Corporate Exchange information. Capture still images with fantastic clarity thanks to the 8-megapixel camera, and enjoy 44 percent faster shot-to-shot times with the continuous auto-focus. You can also aggregate all of your web photo sharing sites--including Facebook, Flickr, Picasa, and Photobucket--into a single connected gallery.

Other features include Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo audio streaming, GPS turn-by-turn directions via free Google Maps with Navigation (plus optional VZ Navigator service), 8 GB internal memory plus 8 GB pre-loaded microSD memory card, access to both personal and corporate e-mail, enterprise-ready security, and up to 8 hours of talk time.

1DROID is a trademark of Lucasfilm Ltd. and its related companies. Used under license.

Reliable 3G Network
With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps.

Vital Statistics
The DROID X2 weighs 5.74 ounces and measures 5.02 x 2.58 x 0.39 inches. Its 1540 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 8 hours of talk time, and up to 220 hours (9+ days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV-DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.
What's in the Box
DROID X2 handset, rechargeable battery, wall/USB charger, 8 GB microSD card, quick start guide

Android Operating System
The DROID X2 runs the Android operating system--version OS 2.2 (aka, Froyo)--which provides a faster overall Android experience as well as greater multitasking capabilities. You'll be able to receive notifications, listen to music, and even record GPS data without keeping the application open. And it features a plethora of new enhancements, including an improved onscreen QWERTY keyboard, full push corporate e-mail, and support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for access to the full Web. It also offers enhanced Exchange support, with Calendar syncing, Global Address Lookup, improved security, auto-discovery, and more.

With integrated Google technology, the DROID X2 brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, GTalk instant messaging (with presence capabilities), YouTube, and Picasa. The DROID X2 also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you'll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets, and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.

Swype Keyboard
An alternative to the Android virtual keyboard, the Swype virtual keyboard allows you to input text by swiping the finger with one continuous finger or stylus motion across the screen keyboard. Based on testing, speed and accuracy are equal to or better than the traditional keyboard-tapping method. You can activate the Swype keyboard by pressing and holding in a text field, wait for popup to appear, click Input Method, and then select Swype.

In the image to the right, the word "mind" was generated from tracing the path shown above in a fraction of a second, by roughly aiming to pass through the letters of the word. A key advantage to Swype is that there is no need to be very accurate, enabling very rapid text entry.

Verizon Wireless Services Visual Voice Mail
This innovative service enables you to delete, reply, and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.
VZ Navigator Capable
With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.
V CAST Video on Demand
This optional service enables you to watch full-length TV shows plus news, sports, weather, and live entertainment video clips. It features more than 100 full-length programs from leading broadcast and cable networks, ranging from highly-rated drama and comedy series to reality programs and children's programming. V CAST Video on Demand also delivers live sporting events, including live NHL hockey games golf, tennis, and horse racing.



Also Available for This Android Device

Click here for more information about Motorola DROID X2 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)

Read More...

LG Revolution 4G Android Phone (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)LG hasn't really been known in the past for their high end phones. Usually you have seen them mainly in the freebie bins. Though with the recent releases of both the X2 and now the Revolution it seems that LG is trying to change the way they are precieved. And in my eyes, they have done well so far.
I am going to say this right off the bat, the battery is neither horrible nor is it great. Unplugged at 7AM the battery with moderately heavy usage it usually makes it past 6PM with around 10% left. Thats with a few phone calls, moderate surfing (I live and work in a 4G area and usually have 2-4 bars) running of apps/games and of course some Netflix and HBO GO usage. Some days vary though and I need to recharge before 6PM. So as with any other LTE phone, you may want to have a spare charger around with you. Keep in mind though, my battery is in no way fully conditioned, so hopefully it will improve some. With the battery thing out of the way you will be greeted with a spectacular phone. The screen is crisp and clear. Not as good as the Droid Charge, but hands down superior to the HTC Thunderbolt.
The phone also comes with 16GB internal storage which is the most of any of the current LTE offerings. This phone also scores higher than both of the other devices in Quadrant usually getting me 2100. Granted not dual core territory, but great for a single core. Menus, games and the internet move quickly and smoothly. And chances are if you are looking at this phone, LTE is probably the most imporant thing on your mind.
The phone , like the other LTE devices, ships with Froyo 2.2.2 and hopefully Gingerbread will be out shortly. Lg has been speedy in getting Gingerbread out for the X2 so hopefully they'll have the same diligence with the Revolution, but we can only speculate with that. The phone also has VoLTE built in, which is nice but the sevice won't be turned on until next year.
A quick run down of differences/advantages between the current LTE phones:
Screen - (Droid Charge with the Super AMOLED+)
Screen/Menu Responsiveness - (LG revolution)
4G Speed - (All Even)
3G Speed - (Revolution has the newest verisons)
3G Data and Voice - (Thunderbolt can only do this)
VoLTE - (Revolution only, but again the service is turned off)
Battery Life Usage - (Charge 660min > Revolution 435min> Thunderbolt 378min)
RAM - (Thunderbolt & Revolution @ 768MB, Charge @ 512MB)
Onboard Memory - ( Revolution @ 16GB/14GB (installed/usable) Thunderbolt @ 8GB/2.5GB Charge 2GB/??)
Max Memory - (Revolution 48GB, Thunderbolt 40GB, Charge 34GB)
Camera - (Charge by far has superior Cameras than not only both phones but mostly every phone currently available save the Galaxy S II)
Netflix - (Revolution only)
HDMI - ( Revolution & Charge only)
All in all, you'll have advantages in some areas and will fall short in others. The Revolution is a well rounded LTE offering and in my opinion was enough to warrant a purchase and 2 year contract from me. If you're looking to get the fastest phone out there, you may want to look at one of the new dual core offerings, but know this, you'll be stuck on 3g. If you want LTE and want to lock yourself into unlimited 4g before Verizon switches over to tiered internet this should be your phone of choice. Dreams of a dual core phone with unlimited LTE support most likely got killed with the delay of the Bionic.

Click Here to see more reviews about: LG Revolution 4G Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)


Combining the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE mobile broadband network with the power of Android 2.2, the Revolution by LG also offers complete HD support for streaming, playing and recording video multimedia while on the go. You'll be able to download movies and games in seconds, shoot HD videos and share them instantly, seamlessly multitask, and browse the web.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network provides speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. With 4G LTE, you'll enjoy simultaneous voice and data capabilities, allowing you to check e-mail, browse the web, download an app, and check directions while on a call. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years (learn more about 4G below).

In addition to high-speed 4G connectivity, you can also share the built-in Mobile Hotspot via Wi-Fi among up to eight devices--laptop, another phone, MP3 player, and more (additional service charge).

Stay up-to-date with friends and family over video chat with the front-facing camera, and snap crystal clear images with the 5-megapixel autofocus camera on the back. The LG Revolution also records video in HD 720p resolution, perfect for showing on HDTVs via the HDMI video output (or wirelessly via DLNA connectivity).

Keep yourself entertained with the latest movies on the go with the pre-loaded Netflix app. You can also load movies from your PC in multiple formats, including DivX, and experience rich sound quality with Dolby Mobile. And the LG Revolution comes pre-loaded with games, including Rock Band and Let's Golf 2.

Other features include a pre-loaded 16 GB microSD memory card (with expansion up to 32 GB via optional cards), Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo audio streaming, GPS turn-by-turn directions via free Google Maps with Navigation (plus optional VZ Navigator service), access to both personal and corporate e-mail, and up to 7.25 hours of talk time.

Vital Statistics
The LG Revolution weighs 6.06 ounces and measures 5.03 x 2.63 x 0.52 inches. Its 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 7.25 hours (435 minutes) of talk time, and up to 335 hours (14 days) of standby time. It runs on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network, as well as EV-DO, Rev A 3G and CDMA 800/1900 frequencies where 4G LTE is not available.
What's in the Box
LG Revolution handset, rechargeable battery, charger, USB cable, 16 GB microSD card, quick start guide

Android Operating System
The LG Revolution runs the Android operating system--OS 2.2 (aka, Froyo)--which provides a faster overall Android experience as well as greater multitasking capabilities. You'll be able to receive notifications, listen to music, and even record GPS data without keeping the application open. And it features a plethora of new enhancements, including an improved onscreen QWERTY keyboard, full push corporate e-mail, and support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for access to the full Web. It also offers enhanced Exchange support, with Calendar syncing, Global Address Lookup, improved security, auto-discovery, and more.

With integrated Google technology, the LG Revolution brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, GTalk instant messaging (with presence capabilities), YouTube, and Picasa. The LG Revolution also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you'll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets, and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.

Swype Keyboard
An alternative to the Android virtual keyboard, the Swype virtual keyboard allows you to input text by swiping the finger with one continuous finger or stylus motion across the screen keyboard. Based on testing, speed and accuracy are equal to or better than the traditional keyboard-tapping method. You can activate the Swype keyboard by pressing and holding in a text field, wait for popup to appear, click Input Method, and then select Swype.

In the image to the right, the word "quick" was generated from tracing the path shown above in a fraction of a second, by roughly aiming to pass through the letters of the word. A key advantage to Swype is that there is no need to be very accurate, enabling very rapid text entry.

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network
The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network allows you to download photos, apps, and games in seconds and entire movies in minutes. LTE (or Long Term Evolution provides significantly increased upload and download speeds over 3G networks, as well as significantly reduced latency (or lag time). Verizon Wireless expects 4G LTE average data rates to be 5-12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2-5 Mbps on the uplink in real-world, loaded network environments.

With these blazing fast speeds, you'll be able to stream HD movies without the annoyance of constant pauses to buffer the video stream--as well as quickly download HD-quality movies right to your phone in minutes. Additionally, you'll be able to download a new song file in about 4 seconds or upload a photo to your favorite social networking site in about 6 seconds.

And with Skype Mobile with video calling capabilities via the 4G LTE network, you'll see callers face-to-face while you're on the go. In addition to chatting with other compatible smartphones, you'll be able to video conference to users on PCs.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE mobile broadband network will also redefine the mobile office for business users. Business applications that used to require wired networks will be untethered forever, allowing you maximized productivity and efficiency while you're out of the confines of your office. Enhanced security lets you tap into most VPN networks with less waiting, and faster responsiveness enables you to upload 10 MB presentations back to your team in less than 25 seconds.

Click here for more information about LG Revolution 4G Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)

Read More...