There you were, just growing accustomed to that shiny new Xperia Arc when Sony Ericsson goes around updating the thing with a slightly zippier processor and some eye-catching camera software. By which we mean both eyes. It turns out that not only has Sony Ericsson bumped the processor speed to 1.4 GHz, it’s added a 3D image capture setting to the Arc’s camera software.
We should emphasize “software”, as the phone doesn’t benefit from a second camera and it shows. The images taken with the 3D panoramic sweep effect setting we were shown had only the slightest 3D effect, but jagged edges and purple patches aplenty. Unfortunately, nothing else really sets the handset apart from its predecessor, but if you loved the original Arc, then the only problem you’ll have with this new incarnation is Sony Ericsson’s stubborn refusal to stick a dual-core chip in there.
Enhanced Processor Performance
The upgrade to a 1.4 GHz processor is a notable improvement over the original Xperia Arc’s 1 GHz processor. This enhancement means that the Xperia Arc S can handle tasks more efficiently and provide a smoother user experience. Applications open faster, multitasking becomes more seamless, and overall system responsiveness is improved. For users who rely heavily on their smartphones for various activities, this boost in processing power can make a significant difference in daily usage.
Moreover, the increased processor speed can enhance the performance of resource-intensive applications such as games and multimedia apps. Users can expect less lag and better frame rates, making the Xperia Arc S a more capable device for entertainment purposes. However, it’s worth noting that while the processor upgrade is beneficial, it still falls short of the performance offered by dual-core processors, which were becoming more common in smartphones around the same time.
3D Image Capture: A Gimmick or a Game-Changer?
The addition of the 3D image capture setting to the Arc’s camera software is an intriguing feature, but its practical benefits are debatable. The 3D panoramic sweep effect allows users to capture images with a sense of depth, but the results are far from perfect. The images we observed had only a slight 3D effect, with noticeable jagged edges and purple patches. This suggests that the software-based 3D effect is not as refined as one might hope.
Despite its shortcomings, the 3D image capture feature could still appeal to users who enjoy experimenting with their smartphone cameras. It adds a unique element to photography and can be fun to use in certain situations. However, for those seeking high-quality 3D images, this feature may not meet their expectations. The lack of a second camera, which is typically required for true 3D imaging, limits the effectiveness of this software-based solution.
In addition to the 3D image capture, the Xperia Arc S retains the same 8.1-megapixel camera found in the original Arc. This camera is capable of taking high-quality photos and videos, making it a reliable choice for everyday photography. The inclusion of features such as autofocus, LED flash, and image stabilization further enhances the camera’s capabilities.
Overall, the Xperia Arc S offers some notable improvements over its predecessor, particularly in terms of processing power and camera software. However, it also highlights some missed opportunities, such as the absence of a dual-core processor and the limitations of the 3D image capture feature. For fans of the original Xperia Arc, the Arc S represents a modest upgrade that enhances the user experience without drastically changing the core features of the device.
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