Introduction
[Part 1] Introduction, Specifications and Design
[Part 2] 4 Core Differentiation factors of the Sony Xperia Z Ultra
[Part 3] Camera tests – Videos and Photos
[Part 4] Hardware and Performance Tests
[Part 5] Usability and Conclusion
Notable features which improves usability
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| One handed typing (Right) |
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| One handed typing (Left) / Swype |
The thing about having a huge display is that it is difficult for you to type or to navigate around the whole screen with one hand. Sony has thought about that and created features to minimize the strain on your hands when typing. Instead of a full length wide keyboard, they have integrated their custom one-hand typing keyboard. Depending on your grip, you can easily switch between the left or right keyboard. This way, all the QWERTY keys can be reached with just one hand, allowing you to type easily. It’s the first time I’m seeing something like this on a large screen smartphone and I think that it will be very useful for those people who want to write messages or email when standing on public transport.
2. Preview for Movie App
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| Video Preview for Sony Movie App |
When testing out the screen of the Sony Xperia Z Ultra, Sony’s movie app has caught my attention. The app is able to playback a preview of the video which you last played and the design of the application makes browsing of your current movies and videos so smooth and pleasant.
3. Useful on-screen applications
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| Widgets can be placed anywhere on the screen |
Another notable useful feature found on the Sony Xperia Z Ultra is the ability to put widgets anywhere in the operating environment. For this example, we pinned up a Calculator widget. Let’s say you are doing some math homework on using the Sony Xperia Z Ultra and would want to use the calculator app. In usual case, you will need to switch between the Calculator application and your math homework application. However, with on-screen widgets, you can now launch a calculator from anywhere and then use it while on the math homework app.
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| Widgets can even be placed in app screens |
The screenshot shown above shows that the Calculator widget can be also opened up in the movie app.
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| Widgets are accessed via the “Multi-tasking” button from Android |
Of course, it will be a basic consideration that the widget should be able to be launched anytime from anywhere. That is why, Sony has adopted a universal widget launcher that integrates with the App switcher so that you can launch those widgets anytime when you need it.
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| List of applications available for onscreen widget |
Conclusion
Availability and Pricing
Pre-orders will begin from 23 August 2013 onwards at the above mentioned locations, with the units ready for collection from 01 September 2013 onwards.
Customers who pre-order the Xperia Z Ultra will receive the following complimentary exclusives, valued at a total of S$288:
• NFC-enabled Smart Bluetooth Handset SBH52
• Stylish leather case cover
• Xperia Z Ultra Official Guidebook
Online pre-orders can be made at the following operator websites:
www.singtel.com/XperiaZUltra
www.m1.com.sg/xperiazultra
www.starhub.com/xperiazultra
More information will be available on the Sony Mobile Singapore Facebook page from 23 August 2013 onwards.
Purchase Sony Xperia Z Ultra here
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