Sony Ericsson C510

Editor's Review of the C510

A lightweight handset at 92 grams and 107 x 47 x 12.5 millimetre full measurements, the Sony Ericsson C510 is a bar shaped mobile phone that joins the C series which includes the C902i and the C905. It has a TFT display screen that measures 55.88 millimetres and provides up to 262,000 colours on a 240 x 320 pixel resolution for its picture and animated wallpapers. The TFT display comes with an auto-rotate feature that allows viewing of images on the screen in horizontal and vertical modes. Users can give the handset a more personal touch with its set of polyphonic ringtones, as well as MP3 and AAC music tones to choose from.

The mobile phone is an ideal companion for frequent travelers, as it functions on quad band technology, working over GSM 850, GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900 networks, as well as HSDPA 2100. Internet access is easy using the Access NetFront and WAP Web browser integrated with the handset. It is YouTube compatible for a full Internet experience right on this handy gadget.

Trying to share files with printers, laptops or personal computers? The Sony Ericsson C510 supports USB cabled transfers and wireless Bluetooth A2DP. The mobile phone is 3G HSDPA-enabled and is powered by EDGE technology. As such, it ensures high-speed transfers and downloading rates, as well as broadband speed for its Internet connectivity.

As standard mobile phone features, the handset supports SMS or text messaging complete with Predictive Text, as well as MMS or multimedia messaging service. It also allows users to access their electronic inbox and compose, receive or send emails. Chat messaging is also supported by the mobile phone with its Instant Messaging capability. A bonus feature is its support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync technology.

As a dependable assistant, the Sony Ericsson C510 has a phone book feature that stores numerous contact details; an alarm clock, a stopwatch and a timer to keep users on track of time; a calculator for necessary computations; a calendar to keep scheduling details intact; and a notes and tasks feature for essential reminders. Traveling with the mobile phone is a breeze, as it functions with a flight mode option. For messages and calls that require urgent attention, the handset aids users with its vibrating alert. It also offers PictBridge and Google Maps support.

The Sony Ericsson C510 is best known for its ability to easily convert into a portable snapshot gizmo with its integrated 3.2-Megapixel Cyber-Shot camera. The powerful camera is complete with a slide lens cover to perfectly protect the lens when it is not being used. It also has the features of an autofocus, a digital zoom, a Smile Shutter and a built-in photo light which allows users to gain clear, precise and well lit shots each time. Moreover, the mobile phone is powered by a face detection technology that focuses up to three subjects at one time. For better photo results, users may utilise the built-in Photo Fix feature that adjusts brightness, light balance and contrast. As an imaging focused handset, it also allows users to capture moving footages, and supports video playback. Its video recorder facet comes with an integrated video light to lighten up darker environment during video recording and a stabiliser to counteract hand movements during recording. The mobile phone also supports video calling with its 3G HSDPA capability.

The mobile phone has an integrated media player that comes with a TrackID, MegaBass and PlayNow features for a quality music experience. Users can also view the title, genre and song artist of the tracks they are listening to, through the Album Art feature. Users who enjoy listening to tracks on-air will appreciate the FM radio feature of the handset, complete with RDS that provides listeners with the latest news, music and weather reports. Listening to songs is clearer with the wireless Bluetooth stereo A2DP feature. The mobile phone also turns into a gaming zone instantly with its support for Java and 3D games. Users can download games from the Internet unto the handset.

The Sony Ericsson C510 allows users to store files of up to 100 Megabytes, which can be expanded using a Micro M2 memory stick. It offers users 10 hours of GSM talk time, as well as 400 hours of standby time when used on a fully charged battery.

While some users have commented that the handset is armed with lesser capabilities than most handsets in its range, the Sony Ericsson C510 is being applauded for its user-friendly communication features that suit all users.