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Sony Rachael smartphone to launch as X10 on Android 2.0

Sony Ericsson's first Android smartphone, the Xperia X10, is set to hit shelves next year, according to reports.

There had been suggestions the device, codenamed "Rachael", would be released in time for Christmas, but Sony is believed to want to focus on its Xperia X2, based on the Windows Mobile 6.5 platform.

Leaked information indicates that the X10 has an ultra-thin format with curved corners, a four-inch touchscreen, 16Gb of internal memory, GPS, WiFi and an eight-megapixel CyberShot camera.

Its high-resolution screen is thought to present Sony's challenge to LG and Samsung's lead in the hi-tech phone display arena.

Significantly, the Xperia X10 will mark the arrival of Android 2.0, meaning it should have improved text-to-speech facilities, a unified email inbox, faster browsing, extended Facebook support and native Exchange support.

Detailed information on the smartphone is expected from Sony Ericsson at the CES tradeshow in Las Vegas, held from 7th until 10th January.

Meanwhile, the Motorola Droid – also powered by the much-anticipated Android 2.0 – is tipped for release in the US by the end of this month. Slightly thicker than the iPhone 3GS, it will be available on the Verizon network.