Sony is introducing a new Android phone that comes with NFC and LTE technologies at a very affordable price, the Sony Xperia Ion. The Sony Xperia Ion will be available on AT&T starting June 24th at the starting price of $99.
The 1.5GHz dual-core processor device comes with 16GB of internal memory which is expandable to 32GB thanks to its microSD port. The Xperia Ion features a 4.6 inch screen, a 12 megapixel rear camera that can record 1080p as well as a front facing camera that can record 720p. As any new Sony smartphone, the Sony Xperia Ion is PlayStation Certified, and comes with HDMI as well as DLNA.
Other interesting fact is that the Sony Xperia Ion comes with NFC (near field communication) which allows communication via radio frequency. The most common use of NFC would be as a form of payment or even as an automation tool. For instance, Samsung just launched Tectiles which allows you to program small NFC chips with simple orders/ tasks that you can program. In the same way, Sony is launching SmartTags, that you can program as well. The SmartTags come in a pack of four for $30. You can set the SmartTag next to your bed to set your alarm when you put your phone next to it for example.
There’s just a big bummer with the Xperia Ion, it runs Android 2.3 Gingerbread. Hopefully Sony will provide an Ice Cream Sandwich update in the near feature. But for a phone that runs on LTE and that comes with NFC and a huge 4.6 inch screen, for only $99, its hard to let such an incredible pass you by.
