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Rock-solid smartphone [New Straits Time (Malaysia)](New Straits Time (Malaysia) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) FULL-SIZE android smarpthones don't come better than the Sony Xperia Z2, writes Nicholas King. Last year, Sony showed what it was like to combine ruggedness, class and performance in a smartphone with its Xperia Z and Z1, going face-to-face with market giants Samsung and Apple. Now, barely a year later, it has launched the successor to the Xperia Z series - the Z2. Topping everything its predecessor does, the Z2 is a no-holds- barred contender in the premium smartphone market. It has everything that made the Xperia Z a success and more. If you're looking for a physically durable android phone, this may be one of the current best. LOOK OF LOVE A beauty to hold and behold, the Z2 has a vibrant HD Triluminos 5.2 inch display backed by Sony's Live Colour LED and X-Reality engine to offer stunning images and video quality. The user interface is both uncluttered and distinctly colourful. You will need its brightness all the way to the top when outdoors in the sun. Physically, it feels like a premium model with its heavier solid aluminium plastic body sandwiched between resistant glasses. The battery isn't removable, possibly to serve as one of the phone's measures to stand up to water resistant and pressure tests. So, everything - from SIM to Micro SD card - goes in at the side of the phone and is protected by the solid lids of the aluminium-like material. This is reassuring as previous Xperia models had flimsy rubberised lids. It is advisable though, to use a docking charger so that you won't abuse the lids too much as they are only joined to the body via a small rubber piece that doesn't look like it can withstand too much wear and tear. ALL ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT Those familiar with Sony smartphones will agree that the devices are generally very much entertainment-geared. So you can expect some impressive output, using the Android Kit Kat 4.4 running on a 2.3GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 processor and a 3GB RAM. The 20.7MP camera with Sony G Lens, 1/2.3 inches Exmor RS mobile image sensor and intelligent Bionz for mobile image processing engine, is capable of shooting in 1,080p at 60 frames per-second and 4K ultra high-definition video. It also comes with numerous new features including a manual mode which, going by some tests, would greatly enhance the photos taken as opposed to leaving it in superior auto-mode. Those who find it hard to keep their shaky hands still while using the video camera function will be glad to know that the phone also comes with a built-in Steadyshot technology. On top of the Walkman and Bravia technology to cater to your audio and video needs, the Z2 is also geared for gaming - a bigger bonus if you're a Playstation owner as the PSN app allows you to monitor your online profile account without having to turn on your home gaming console. Jam-packed with media access appears to take a toll on the Z2 though. The phone heats up quickly when using the 4k UHD shooting mode. BRAVE AND BOLD Apart from the features mentioned above, another reason to own the Z2 would be durability, especially its scratch resistant and waterproof features. This is one package that no other mainstream smartphone model can claim to have currently, which is a huge plus for anyone who has issues keeping their devices accident-free and travel-friendly. The real question: Is the Xperia Z2 worth its price tag of RM2,399? Has Sony shot itself in the foot in its haste to launch the Z2 in the first half of the year, before the Z1 has gained a full 12- month run. Those who have bought the Z1 may feel cheated by the quick shift. Either that or Sony is very confident in its pricing and product strategy. I have a feeling that many consumers will wait, hoping the price of the Z2 will eventually drop, like what happened to the Z1 and Z1 Compact. Sony Xperia Z2 Price: RM2,399 Enquiry: www.sony.com.my Specifications: Android 4.4 KitKat, 5.2 inch 1920x1080 Triluminous display, 2.3GHz quad-core qualcomm snapdragon 801 processor, 3GB RAM, 20.7MP camera, 4K video rear, 2.2MP front, 1080p video, 16GB storage and microSD up to 64GB, 3200mAh battery, WiFi, 3G/4G, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0, USB 2.0 Pros Scratch-resistant and waterproof. Comes with Sony entertainment media. Premium design. Vibrant display screen. Solid performance. Cons Expensive. Heating issues (which may be isolated incidents). Conclusion The Xperia Z2 is superior to the Z1 in almost every way possible, from its built and weight right down to its features. No reason not to consider it if you're looking for a premium smartphone. Our verdict: ***** Physical design: ***** Documentation: **** User-friendliness: **** 1/2 Features: **** 1/2 Performance: **** 1/2 Value for money: **** 1/2 (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |