Sony Ericsson G705

Sony Ericsson announced the new G705, and cell phone that Sony Ericsson claims will make the perfect personal assistant. The G705u, a UMA compatible version of the G705 to be available exclusively from Orange, was also announced.

The G705 handsets feature Google search on the standby screen as well as a built in GPS module that backs up Google Maps and Wayfinder navigation software. The G705 is also the first Sony Ericsson cell phone to be compatible with Google's YouTube video service, meaning that videos recorded on the G705 can be uploaded directly do Google, and other YouTube videos can be viewed on the G705.

Apart from all of the Google related features, the G705 also features a 2.4" QVGA resolution color display, a 3.2 megapixel camera, Microsoft Exchange Activesync support for over the air synchronization of contacts, email, and appointments, and the ability to view RSS news feeds directly from the standby screen. A built in accelerometer allows the G705 user to view things in landscape mode just by rotating the device, too. That's convenient since the handset sports a full HTML compatible web browser.

Other features of note include Bluetooth stereo and headset support, a music player with Sony Mega Bass support, and the ability to play 3D Java games. An FM radio is on board, and WiFi connectivity enables speedy downloads and, on the G705u, the UMA based VoIP calling features. Sony Ericsson claims that the G705 weighs 98g (3.5oz) and measures 95mm x 47mm x 14.3mm (3.7" x 1.9" x .6") in size. Its battery should be good for up to 10 hours of GSM talk time, or 4 hours of UMTS 3G talk time.

The quad-band GSM/EDGE, 2100MHz UMTS/HSDPA G705 versions, including the G705u, will be available in early Q4 of this year. A version of the G705 for the Americas that includes upgraded triband (850/1900/2100MHz) HSUPA data support will be available in Q1 of next year.