Sony Ericsson W890i review

Sony Ericsson quotes standby time on 3G networks as 310 hours, or 360 hours on regular GSM networks. Optimum talktime is 4.5 hours on 3G or 9.5 hours using GSM. The music player itself will keep on for up to 20 hours.

The Sony Ericsson W890i’s best-scenario figures pan out in real life as delivering two to three days on standby with average use, without heavy use of the Walkman player – which would increase charging frequency.

A pleasing user experience

Using the Sony Ericsson W890i for its primary calling purposes is a pleasing experience, with consistently crisp, natural audio and dependable network connections making for a top class performance.

Which is in line with our overall impressions of the W890i. Sony Ericsson has managed to refine what was already an attractive and well-regarded phone with some smart and subtle changes that add to both its feature run down and user-friendly appeal.

It’s not got all the high-end gadgetry some users may desire from a multimedia mobile – Wi-Fi, GPS and smartphone functionality are absent, for instance.

A star is born for Sony Ericsson

But Sony Ericsson has refreshed this mid-tier Walkman phone with some highly attractive upgraded features – such as more in-box memory, an improved (if not perfect) 3.2-megapixel camera and a fabulous music player - while online capabilities have been boosted by 3G HSDPA connectivity.

Crucially, the Sony Ericsson W890i has also maintained the essence of the W880i’s slim, stylish design, high quality finishing and overall desirability.

There’s no doubt that Sony Ericsson has created a cracking handset that’s sure to be a star performer in its Walkman range.