November 3, 2004 Sony Ericsson Australia have launched the new K500i camera phone packed with the latest entertainment and imaging features to suit a fun and active lifestyle, enabling music, the latest 3D games and high quality VGA images all on the go for a recommended retail price of AUD $555.
Designed to look like a phone on one side and a camera on the other, the K500i boasts 1.9 inch 65K colour TFT screen to ensure the user can view images and play games with vivid clarity.
“The K500i was designed for the consumer on the go who wants the latest communication and entertainment features without compromising on style or ease-of-use,” said Antal Keur, Sony Ericsson’s Product Marketing Manager.
Gaming
The K500i is an ideal gaming companion with its cutting-edge graphics, large screen and MultiAction joystick. Smooth, intuitive game play is assured with an impressive graphics platform consisting of Java 2.0 and Mascot Capsule Engine Micro3D Edition from HI Corp to support fast-action, graphic-rich mobile applications.
The K500i has enough internal memory (12MB) to store up to 170 2D or 45 3D games, which can easily be downloaded from operator portals or Sony Ericsson Fun & Downloads website.
“Sony Ericsson supports game developers around the world with the necessary tools to bring out new and exiting Java games such as Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell, 3D Tennis and Pandora Tomorrow in 3D,” said Antal Keur. “When combined with the Gameboard EGB-10 accessory, the K500i effectively turns into a fully-fledged gaming console.”
Imaging
The K500i’s extensive imaging features are made easy thanks to its intuitive design and clever user interface. With the integrated VGA camera, the K500i can capture spontaneous moment with just a few easy clicks.
Using the K500i camera phone’s 12MB internal memory, users can store up to 165 still images and 120 video clips. In addition, the multi-action 4x zoom, fun frames and editing features allow users to add their own creative flair to every image.
The innovative dual-front design gives instant access to the 4x digital zoom camera, bringing new levels of spontaneity to capturing still pictures and video clips. With the addition of QuickShare, users also have the option of sending images and videos via MMS or e-mail in just a three clicks.
Music
Users will also be impressed with the built-in MP3 audio player. Combined with the PlayNow and Music DJ features, the K500i is bound to bring out the musical enthusiast in everyone.
PlayNow enables users to get on-line and download a song from a selection of Sony Music MP3 music ringtones for their mobile from a frequently updated list in just a few clicks, with the cost automatically charged to the users phone account.
For a limited time, a selection of tracks from the Sony Music ‘Off The Hook’ compilation CD will be available.
The Music DJ application makes it possible for users to compose their very own four-track ring tone, complete with drum loops, bass lines, keyboards and other sounds effects.
Personalising the K500i
The visual appearance, ringtones and expression of the K500i can be changed at any time. Creativity can run wild, as there is no limit to the amount of wallpapers, themes and ringtones that can be downloaded or created, so the K500i can be easily personalised to match a mood, an outing, an outfit or simply the time of day.
“The K500i will really set a benchmark for the gaming phone market. Now more than ever, mobile phones are about entertaining the user anytime, anywhere,” said Mr Keur.