Sony launches the Xperia M smartphone

Sony are adding a new model to their Xperia smartphone line. The Xperia M will offer a more affordable alternative to their flagship Xperia Z.

The new smartphone offers impressive specs for a non-premium model including a dual-core MSM8227 Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, 1 GB RAM, 4 GB internal memory, and access to Sony's PlayStation range of games.

Other features include a 4-inch 854 x 480 scratch-resistant display, Android 4.1, a microSD card slot, an unspecified front-facing camera suitable for video calls, and a 5 MP back-facing camera capable of recording 720p video. The Xperia M will also have a full range of connectivity options including Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, and Xperia Link.

Sony are putting a lot of emphasis on the device's camera and have incorporated a dedicated button for taking quick shots even when the phone is asleep, as well as many features more often seen on their Cybershot cameras such as Sweep Panorama and red-eye reduction.

Both the Xperia M and a dual-sim version called the Xperia Mdual will sell worldwide from Q3 2013. Prices are expected to be around US$320 for the Xperia M which will be available in white, black, purple, and yellow and US$330 for the Xperia Mdual which will be available in white, black, and purple.

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