Sony Ericsson’s cameraphones have always been a cut above the rest, and its CyberShot range represents the finest mobile snappers money can buy. The secret’s in the software, and the K850i sports Sony’s very latest version.
The K850i’s faster than ever, and new graphical touches make in-camera menus much easier to navigate at speed. The five-megapixel camera also performs remarkably, snapping pictures quicker than rivals with similar sensors and delivering some of the finest photos we’ve ever seen from a mobile.
The outward design of the phone is strange, however. The K850i frequently feels more phonecamera than cameraphone, a sensation that’s aided by a hardware function switch on the side, used to flick from camera to phone and back. It’s like they’re two separate devices, crammed inside the same shell.
It’s not a major problem though, as Sony’s attention to non-camera features has delivered a wonderful handset, ready to sit alongside its top-drawer camera skills. The phone features movement sensors, so it knows which way it’s being held and automatically rotates its screen. The lower portion of the display is also touch-sensitive, and unlike previous K-series phones, packs in three selection buttons.
Unfortunately, this is where the phone’s largest fault lies. Aside from its side-mounted camera keys, it’s simply awkward to control. The touchscreen is frequently unresponsive, and the phone’s bizarre direction pad is spread over two number keys, making it feel alien beneath the thumb.
It’s a shame, as the Sony K850i’s features make it the perfect pocket companion. It’s a multi-purpose masterpiece, handling every task thrown at it with style and speed. Unfortunately, with its awkward direction pad and frustrating touchscreen standing in the way, you’re more likely to end up using it as a high-end camera that also takes calls, and that’s a waste.
Best features:
Top-notch camera with fantastic software
Auto-rotating screen
Solid phone functions, with online integration everywhere
Not so good:
Awkward direction keys
Frequently unresponsive touchscreen
Closest rivals
LG KU990
This Viewty packs an outstanding five megapixel picture grabber to capture those moments on the move.
Samsung U900 Soul
Samsung’s ultra stylish touch-sensitive slider also comes packing a five megapixel shooter.
Nokia N95
As well as its five megapixel camera, this smartphone is packed with mouth-watering features.
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