Sony Xperia P review

Can build quality and multimedia chops redeem a phone lacking the latest version of Android? Find out as we take a closer look at the Sony Xperia P.

The fact that we’re starting to see dual-core phones at entry-level price points is a testament to the tremendous pace at which smartphone technology is advancing. Last year this kind of multiprocessing horsepower was reserved for only the most expensive handsets, but as we cross over into the second half of 2012, we’re increasingly seeing these chips in mid-range and low-end phones too.

One such device is the Sony Xperia P. Sitting between the Xperia S and Xperia U in terms of specs and price, the Xperia P is the middle child in Sony’s Xperia NXT series. It aims to differentiate itself with its own unique take on the Xperia NXT “transparent element” design, using an aluminum chassis. It also offers few extra whistles and bells, including NFC support and an 8MP EXMOR R camera.

But there’s a “but” coming, and if you’ve read our Xperia S and Xperia U reviews, you’ll probably have correctly guessed that the Xperia P ships with the 18-month-old Android 2.3 Gingerbread, as opposed to the newer 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. So is this a deal-breaker, or does Sony offer enough added value in other areas for this to be overlooked until the update arrives? Find out below, in our full review of the Sony Xperia P.

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