Sony unveils Xperia T3 with 5.3 inch HD display; Samsung introduces Tizen-powered Samsung Z smartphone

Sony has further expanded its Xperia range of smartphones with the launch of Xperia T3. The device sports a 5.3 inch HD display and runs on the latest Android KitKat operating system. According to the company, the steel used in the smartphones' frame ensures its slim design feels sturdy and durable, while at the same time functioning as an antenna.

In addition, ditching Google's popular Android operating system, Samsung has also introduced its first smartphone powered by the Tizen platform. Christened Samsung Z, the device will be available in Russia in the third quarter of 2014, post which it will be expanded to other markets. Users will also be offered access to additional applications through the Tizen Store at the launch of the smartphone.

"The Samsung Z integrates the power and adaptability of the Tizen platform, enabling users to browse the web faster and utilise applications more effectively," said DJ Lee, president and head of global sales & marketing office, mobile communications business at Samsung.

Here is a look at the specifications of the devices.

Samsung Z

According to Samsung, the Tizen platform offers a faster startup time and immediate multi-tasking capabilities. The Samsung Z fully supports 2D and 3D graphic qualities, and also features a distinctive home and application layout for easy access to favourite features and apps. Using 'Dynamic Box' and 'Colour Theme' settings, users can also tailor their device to what suits them best.

The smartphone has a 4.8 inch HD Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen display (1280x720 pixels resolution) and runs on the Tizen 2.2.1 operating system. It is powered by a 2.3 GHz quad-core processor and has 2GB of RAM. The internal memory of the device is 16GB that can be further expanded up to 64GB with a microSD card slot.

It has an 8 megapixel rear camera that can also record videos and a 2.1 MP front facing camera for video calling. The camera features include panorama, quick shot, mini mode and dual camera, among others. On the connectivity front, it has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, 3G, and 4G LTE (depending on the region), as well as a microUSB port and a microSD card slot.

The dimensions of the device are 138.2 x 69.8 x 8.5mm and its weight is 136gm. Samsung has provided a 2,600 mAh battery in the device. Additional features include a fingerprint sensor, S Health 3.0, download booster and an Ultra Power Saving Mode (lets the phone stay operational even at minimal battery levels in emergencies). It will be available in black and gold colours.

Xperia T3

This one has a 5.3 inch HD TRILUMINOS touchscreen display (1280x720 pixels resolution) with 277 ppi pixel density and runs on the Android 4.4 KitKat OS. It is powered by a 1.4 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon quad-core processor and has 1GB of RAM. The internal memory of the device is 8GB that can be further expanded up to 32GB with a microSD card slot.

It has an 8 MP autofocus rear camera (with Sony Exmor RS for mobile image sensor) with Pulsed LED Flash that can also record full HD videos (1080p) and a 1.1 MP front facing camera for video calling. The camera features include High Dynamic Range (HDR) for photos and videos, sweep panorama, SteadyShot, and red-eye reduction, among others. On the connectivity front, it has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, 3G and 4G LTE (depending on the region), as well as a microUSB port and a microSD card slot.

The dimensions of the device are 150.7 x 77 x 7mm and its weight is 148gm. Sony has provided a 2,500 mAh battery in the device, which it claims will provide over 12.5 hours of talk time and 688 hours of standby time. The smartphone also has Near Field Communication (NFC) and GPS (with A-GPS support). It will be available in white, black and purple colours.

While the smartphone will be launched globally by July end, details on its exact pricing in India are not available as of now.