Now that Nokia are
rumoured to be placing Symbian to one side as Maemo and the N900 take centre
stage, it’s up to the recently released Sony Ericsson Satio to be S60's ambassador in the smart phone
game.
Liveried up as a snazzier
version of Sony Ericsson’s classic user interface, the 12 megapixel-packing
Satio relies on Symbian software to power the slick touch layout on a
3.5-inch near-HD display.
Despite customisation
that makes the Satio feel like an entirely original effort full of home screen shortcuts
to content like photos, music, messaging and Spotlight-style search, the menu
page is pure S60.
The familiar grid is
present and correct complete with near identical icons to Symbian stalwarts
like the Samsung i8910 HD and Nokia N97, but with Sony Ericsson-exclusive
features like PlayNow Arena and TrackID.
After a long wait (and a very public name change from 'Idou'), the
Satio is now available in European territories and still manages to be
ahead of the curve with features like a xenon and LED flash on that market leading camera, as well
as the usual suite of smart phone connectivity options like Wi-Fi, A-GPS and Bluetooth.
Whether the Satio will
be Symbian’s swansong as a flagship platform is unknown, the ensuing performance of
this luxurious high-end handset in a very competitive market is bound to be a
determining factor.
As long as
manufacturers are able to add their own flourishes and make a robust user
experience out of Symbian’s flexible assets, we may see the plucky operating
system pop up again in the future…but perhaps as a supporting actor rather than
in the lead role.
Sony Ericsson Satio
deals currently offer a free handset at £30 per month and above, with 400
minutes and unlimited texts on an 18 month contract.
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