Launch report · Sony

Xperia S: The 2012 debut of the Sony Mobile brand after the Ericsson split.

SpecEagle Editorial·Mar 2012·$560·Score 18/100

The Xperia S launched Sony Mobile after the Ericsson split, with a sharp HD screen and a 12 MP camera. A historically notable transition device.

Key specs at launch

Display
4.3" HD LCD
Chipset
Snapdragon S3
Memory
1 GB · 32 GB
Main cam
12 MP · f/2.4
Battery
1,750 mAh
Weight
144 g
What stands out
  • First phone of the Sony Mobile era after the Ericsson buy-out.
  • Sharp 720p HD display for 2012.
  • 12 MP Exmor R camera with fast capture.
  • Distinctive transparent design strip.
What to watch
  • Dual-core S3 was already mid-pack at launch.
  • No microSD; small battery.
  • Software ended at Android 4.1.
  • Discontinued — a vintage device.
The phone it has to beat
Nexus 5 (LG)
$349 · score 84/100