14 DAY TRIAL // Australian mobile phone carrier Telstra is reportedly gearing up for the launch of a new Android-based handset from Sony Ericsson, namely the Xperia neo, which might make an appearance on shelves starting with July 26th.
Apparently, the wireless services provider will have the new device available for purchase for $0 on their $59 Freedom Connect Plan.
The smartphone was unveiled to the world during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, as a more affordable addition to the Sony Ericsson's Xperia lineup.
Although a cheaper device, the Xperia neo still packs a wide range of high-end features that are available with its more expensive counterparts, such as the Xperia arc or the Xperia PLAY.
The smartphone was brought to the market with a 3.7-inch touchscreen display that can deliver a 480 x 854 pixel resolution, with the Mobile Bravia Engine technology from Sony.
Moreover, it can deliver increased performance capabilities, courtesy of the 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor that Sony Ericsson packed it with, and of the Android 2.3 Gingerbread OS it runs under.
On the back, the new Xperia neo packs an 8-megapixel photo snapper, with the Sony Exmor R sensor, capable of providing users recording videos in HD (720p).
The smartphone also comes with a front facing camera that supports video calling, which should prove a great option for those who like using Skype on the go.
Sony Ericsson also included 512 MB of RAM with the new device, as well as 320 MB of internal memory, and a microSD memory card slot with support for up to 32GB of additional storage space.
At Telstra, the new device also comes with 3G connectivity options, as well as with WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, and with built-in GPS receiver.
One other feature that it would deliver to the carrier's customers will be support for the recently launched HD Voice on the Next G network, offering far better call quality on the go.