Unveiling Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman represents a unique fusion of mobile communication and music capabilities that cater to music enthusiasts. This model embodies the spirit of the Walkman brand, popular for its audio devices, by blending it with smartphone technology. Released in October 2011, the device targeted users who desired both connectivity and an immersive music experience.

Design and Build

The device boasts a compact design, with dimensions measuring 106 x 56.5 x 14.2 mm and weighing 115 grams. This compact size makes it highly portable and suitable for one-handed use. The phone is available in classic colors, black and white, and features a sturdy construction to withstand minor wear and tear. Its exterior is complemented by a scratch-resistant glass display, providing durability and maintaining aesthetics over extended use.

Display Features

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman sports a 3.2-inch TFT display with a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels. Although modest based on current standards, the screen was quite adequate at the time of release, offering decent clarity and color vibrancy suitable for media playback and general usage. The screen's scratch-resistant glass ensures that the display remains clear of marks and scratches during daily use.

Performance: Processor and Operating System

Under the hood, the Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8255 Snapdragon S2 chipset, featuring a 1.0 GHz Scorpion CPU and an Adreno 205 GPU. This combination ensures smooth operation for everyday tasks and multimedia applications. Originally running Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), the device is upgradable to Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), extending its usability and access to applications and features on the Android platform.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 320MB of internal storage and 512MB of RAM. While constraints in storage can be managed with the inclusion of a microSDHC slot that allows for expandable memory, facilitating additional storage of media and applications. The capability to include a microSD card is crucial for media-savvy users who need more space for music and videos.

Camera Capabilities

The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman is equipped with a 5 MP rear camera featuring autofocus and an LED flash, enabling decent photography in well-lit conditions. It is also capable of recording 720p videos, suitable for capturing memorable moments in motion. The VGA front camera serves to fulfill basic video calling and selfie needs.

Audio and Sound Quality

As part of the Walkman line, emphasis on audio quality is a standout feature. The device includes stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack to enhance music playback. Sony Ericsson's proprietary audio technology powers the device’s superior output, promising a rich and immersive music listening experience.

Connectivity Options

The device supports GSM and HSPA networks, ensuring reliable connectivity for communication. Additional connectivity features include Wi-Fi (with hotspot and DLNA capabilities), Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP and EDR, and GPS with A-GPS support. These options guarantee versatile connectivity, whether for internet browsing, file transfers, or location-based services. The inclusion of a microUSB 2.0 port and USB On-The-Go (OTG) support further extends its connectivity options.

Battery Life

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery, which supports up to 14 hours and 15 minutes of talk time on 2G networks, and up to 6 hours and 42 minutes on 3G networks. Furthermore, the device offers up to 17 hours and 30 minutes of continuous music playback, underlining its credentials as a music-centric phone. This battery life is suitable for day-long use, particularly for media consumption.

Additional Features

In addition to its primary features, the phone is equipped with sensors like an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. It also includes a stereo FM radio with RDS, adding to its array of entertainment options. The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman has been subjected to various tests, including loudspeaker performance, camera function, and audio quality, all of which highlight its reliable performance in real-world scenarios.

Market Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, the Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman was greeted with positive responses, particularly from music enthusiasts looking for a capable yet affordable smartphone. Its unique blend of music features and smartphone functionality set it apart from contemporary competitors. Although discontinued, it leaves a legacy of bridging the gap between music players and smartphones, paving the way for future innovations in mobile audio technology.

Conclusion

The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman remains a noteworthy example of how brands can effectively blend traditional strengths with modern technological advancements. While its hardware may seem modest by today's standards, its emphasis on music quality and durability underscore its primary function as a bridge between Walkman audio quality and mobile communication. As an iconic device of its time, it highlights the evolution of mobile phones from simple communication tools to multifaceted digital companions.