Ultimate Guide Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G Specs Features and Pricing

Introduction to Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G

The Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G is a remarkable device that was part of Sony's Xperia tablet series, announced in August 2012 and released in October of the same year. Offering a blend of performance features along with Sony's distinct design aesthetics, this tablet attracted attention due to its innovative features and strong build quality. Though it has been discontinued, it still represents an essential development in the Android tablet arena.

Network Capabilities

The Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, enabling users to stay connected on the go. It covers 2G bands GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900, ensuring extensive coverage and reliable connectivity. The 3G capabilities are powered by HSDPA technology, and with support for both GPRS and EDGE, this tablet ensures a versatile internet browsing experience.

Design and Build

The device features a classy design with dimensions of 239.8 x 174.4 x 8.8 mm and weighs 585 grams. The slim profile and moderate weight make it manageable for prolonged use. Additionally, it features a Mini-SIM slot, expanding its connectivity options for users who prefer cellular data on tablets. The build quality is sturdy, and the design speaks of Sony's philosophy of merging functionality with aesthetics.

Display Specifications

The Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G comes with a 9.4-inch LED-backlit LCD screen, offering a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels with a 16:10 ratio and approximately 161 ppi density. Although not the highest resolution in its class, the display is vibrant and rich in color, with a screen-to-body ratio of about 61.3%. The oleophobic coating on the screen provides protection against fingerprints and smudges, maintaining clarity during usage.

Performance and Platform

Under the hood, the tablet is powered by an Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset with a Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU, supported by a ULP GeForce GPU. This combination provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming experiences. The device originally shipped with Android 4.0.3 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and was upgradable to Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), keeping users up-to-date with the latest features at the time.

Memory and Storage

The Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G is available in three internal storage variants: 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB, all coupled with 1GB of RAM. This memory configuration is sufficient for handling multiple applications and storing a moderate amount of media and documents. Additionally, the device supports expandable storage via an SD card slot, compatible with up to 32GB, which offers users the flexibility to increase the tablet's storage capabilities.

Camera Features

The tablet is equipped with an 8 MP autofocus main camera capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps, delivering decent image and video quality for general photography needs. The front-facing camera comes with a 1 MP sensor, suitable for basic video calls and selfies, supporting video recording at 720p. While not designed as a photography-centric device, the camera functionality is adequate for casual usage.

Audio and Communication

Audio output on the Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G is facilitated by stereo speakers, providing an enhanced audio experience for media consumption. The device also includes a standard 3.5 mm headphone jack, offering compatibility with various audio accessories. For connectivity, the tablet is equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band support and hotspot capability. Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP ensures seamless connection with wireless devices. The inclusion of an infrared port allows the tablet to function as a remote control, adding versatility to its feature set.

Navigation and Sensors

The tablet features GPS and A-GPS for reliable location tracking, assisting users in navigation tasks. It is equipped with an accelerometer, gyroscope, and compass, enhancing its ability to provide motion-sensing capabilities and augmenting its usability in applications that require spatial awareness, including gaming and virtual reality experiences.

Battery Life

Powering the Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G is a non-removable Li-Ion 6000 mAh battery, offering up to 12 hours of multimedia usage on a single charge. This substantial battery life makes the tablet a reliable companion for travel and daily tasks, minimizing the need for frequent recharging.

Miscellaneous Features

The tablet was released in a classic Black/Silver color scheme, maintaining a professional appearance. Although the device is now discontinued, it was initially priced at around 260 EUR, making it a competitively priced option during its market period.

Conclusion

The Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G, with its combination of design, performance, and connectivity features, represents an important chapter in the evolution of Android tablets. While newer devices have surpassed it in terms of technology, its impact and utility during its time on the market provide valuable insight into the development of mobile computing.