Sony Ericsson Launches Its First TD-SCDMA Handset: A8i

Sony Ericsson today announces that it is strengthening its portfolio in China by launching the first smartphone to support China Mobile’s TD-SCDMA network – the Sony Ericsson A8i.

Sony Ericsson A8i

The Sony Ericsson A8i delivers high performance in a stylish form factor. The phone features a 3.5-inch (9 cm) touch screen and incorporates the human curvature design concept that is now consistent across the Sony Ericsson portfolio. The phone benefits comprehensive range of signature applications including TrackID which is linked directly with China Mobile’s entertainment download service – giving customers in China access to a wide range of local music.

Bert Nordberg, President & CEO, Sony Ericsson said, “China is a hugely important market for Sony Ericsson and we are committed to maintaining our strong position and driving growth by continually introducing new and exciting products into this market. Today cements that commitment and we are honored to introduce the Sony Ericsson A8i to users across China – enhancing to our already award winning product line up in the region.”

“The Sony Ericsson A8i underpins our commitment to delivering the most entertaining smart phones. By combining the best communication and entertainment experiences on an open platform we are giving our customers the best possible consumer experience.”

Huidi Li, Assistant President, China Mobile said, “Demand for Smartphone is on the rise, and our customer’s are continually asking us to provide them with innovative, feature-rich products. Working closely with a partner such as Sony Ericsson, allows us to not only meet that need, but go one step further and deliver product and services that enhance overall user experience. The Sony Ericsson A8i is testament to the combined expertise of both companies and the first of its kind to support our TD-SCDMA network. We are proud to be adding this new product into our product portfolio.”

Sony Ericsson A8i At a Glance

• High-speed, easy-to-use OMS 2.0 smartphne platform which is fully supported by China Mobile’s entertainment services and applications
• Combines a 3.5” touch widescreen with CMMB mobile TV functionality and delivers amazing high-definition visual effects
• Support both TD-SCDMA 3G networks and WLAN connections
• Stylish design featuring the human curvature design concept
• Features Sony Ericsson signature entertainment applications such as TrackID, linked directly with China Mobile’s music download service

Sony Ericsson A8I Features

Camera

• 5 megapixel camera
• 4x digital zoom
• Auto focus
• Geo tagging
• Photo flash
• Photo light
• Touch focus
• Video recording
• LED flash

Music

• Bluetooth™ stereo (A2DP)
• Media player
• Music player
• Music tones (MP3/AAC)
• TrackID™ application

Web

• Bookmarks
• Pan & zoom
• Web search (from standby)
• HTML 4.01
• XHTML 1.1

Communication

• Call list
• Conference calls
• Polyphonic ringtones
• Speakerphone
• Vibrating alert
• Video calling

Messaging

• Conversations
• Email
• Microsoft® Exchange Active-
• Sync®
• Handwriting recognition
• Instant messaging
• Picture messaging (MMS)
• Predictive text input
• Sound recorder
• Text messaging (SMS)
• Unified messaging

Design

• Auto rotate
• Light sensor
• Torch
• OMS 2.0
• Picture wallpaper
• Proximity sensor
• Touchscreen

Entertainment

• eCompass™
• FM radio
• Java™
• Media browser
• Video streaming
• Video viewing

Organiser

• Alarm clock
• Calculator
• Calendar
• Dictionary
• Document readers
• eManual
• Flight mode
• Notes
• Phone book
• Tasks

Connectivity

• 3.5 mm audio jack
• aGPS
• Bluetooth™ technology
• Modem
• Micro USB
• Synchronisation
• USB mass storage
• USB High speed 2.0 support
• WLAN

Screen

• 3.5 inches
• 854x480 pixels
• 262,144 colour TFT

Accessories

• In-Box:
• Sony Ericsson A8i
• Battery
• stereo portable handsfree
• Charger
• User documentation

Facts

• Size: 117 x 59 x 14 mm
• Weight: 136 grams
• Phone memory: Up to 200 MB
• Memory card support: microSD, up to 32GB
• Talk time GSM/GPRS*: 5 hours
• Talk time (TD-SCDMA)*: 7 hours 30 min*
• Standby time GSM/GPRS*: 260 hours
• Standby time (TD-SCDMA)*: 260 hours
• *Typical according to GSM Association Battery Life Measurement Technique

Availability And Versions

• Networks
• TD 2010-2025 band, TD 1880-1920 band
• GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
• Available in selected markets from Q4 2010

Colour

• White
• Black