Sony Ericsson Goes High-Fashion With Jalou Clamshell

While most of the world anxiously awaits Sony Ericsson's big move into the wide world of Android, the company's latest two show that it still has a wild side. Designed specifically for those who value fashion (and who can find these phone attractive), the new Jalou flip-phone is marketed more as a fashion icon and accessory than a device that lets you keep in touch with your grandparents. Of course, the specs list proves that it's more than capable of handling calls, but it's also more than capable of catching eyes.


Designed to be the "ultimate in chic communication," SE's newest phones measure just 73mm long and are able to "slip into the tiniest clutch or jacket pocket." Charles Hunt, Jalou head designer at Sony Ericsson, was obviously proud of his work as he stated the following:

"Structured forms, intricate corners, hidden depths and jewel accents are set to be some of the hottest fashion trends in 2010. You can also expect to see deep and natural jewel colors on the runway next year. Jalou reflects these trends with its delicate facet-cut diamond shape design, clean and expressive lines and variety of different shine and matt finishes, that give depth to the handset. The design team wanted the handset to reflect beauty found in nature. They looked at structure, strength and form in various crystalline jewels, which resulted in the unique shape."

The 2" display also doubles as a mirror with the touch of a button, and it's the first phone from the company to boast a Walk Mate step counter to keep fitness nerds satisfied. It also has an exclusive fashion interface which automatically updates with zodiac signs and special events throughout the year. Jalou will be available in a variety of gem inspired colors including: Deep Amethyst, Aquamarine Blue and Onyx Black. As for detailed specifications? They're all hosted down below, but first we should mention that SE is also introducing a special edition Dolce&Gabbana version, complete with a 24k gold plating, unique accessories and pre-loaded fashion content. We can't imagine how much more this one will be over the unpriced original, but we'll find out when both of 'em ship to select markets in Q4.

Specifications:

• 3.2 megapixel camera – snap your favourite outfit and send to your friends
• Video recording – film and post clips online anytime
• Stereo FM radio – catch up on the latest songs while on the move
• Music player – with Bluetooth™ stereo, PlayNow™ and TrackID ™
• Bluetooth™ 2.0 – upload images and videos to your social network site
• Mirror Key – check your hair before a hot date
• Walk Mate step counter – see how far you have walked while out shopping
• Internet - Google™ search, Google™ maps, email, instant messaging, picture messaging
• Entertainment – YouTube™ application, 3D games, video viewing
• Weight – will not weigh your handbag down, only 84 grams

Jalou supports GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 and UMTS/HSDPA 2100. Jalou will be available in the fourth quarter 2009 in the colours Deep Amethyst, Aquamarine Blue and Onyx Black.

The Sony Ericsson Jalou phone at a glance

Camera

• 3.2 megapixel camera
• 3.2x digital zoom (up to)
• Geo tagging
• Photo feeds
• Photo fix
• Send to web
• Video light
• Video recording

Music

• Bluetooth™ stereo (A2DP)
• Media player
• MEGA BASS™
• Music tones ((MP3/AAC)
• PlayNow™
• TrackID™

Web

• Access NetFront™ web browser
• Bookmarks
• Google™ search (from standby)
• Web feeds

Communication

• Call list
• Conference calls
• Speakerphone
• Vibrating alert
• Video calling (main camera)

Messaging

• Conversations
• Email
• Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync®
• Instant messaging
• Picture messaging (MMS)
• Predictive text input
• Sound recorder
• Text messaging (SMS)

Design

• Auto rotate
• Media
• Picture wallpaper
• Wallpaper animation

Entertainment

• 3D games
• FM radio with RDS
• Java™
• Motion gaming
• Video streaming
• Video viewing
• Walk Mate step counter
• YouTube™ application

Organiser

• Alarm clock
• Calculator
• Calendar
• Flight mode
• Notes
• Phone book
• Stopwatch
• Tasks
• Timer

Connectivity

• A-GPS (US only)
• Bluetooth™ technology
• Google Maps™
• Modem
• Synchronization
• USB mass storage
• USB support

Accessories

In box:

• Sony Ericsson Jalou
• Battery
• Charger
• Stereo
• Portable handsfree
• User documentation

Facts

• Size: 73 x 45 x 18.2 mm
• Weight: 84 grams
• Colours
• Onyx Black
• Deep Amethyst
• Aquamarine Blue
• Main Screen:
• Type: 262,144 colour TFT
• Resolution: 240 x 320 pixels (QVGA)
• Size: 2.0 inches

External screen:

• Type: Monochrome LCD
• Resolution: 128 x 36 pixels
• Size: 1.3 inches
• Phone memory: Up to 100 MB
• Memory card support: SanDisk microSD™
• Talk time GSM: Up to 7 hrs
• Standby time GSM: Up to 350 hrs
• Talk time UMTS: Up to 4 hrs 30 min
• Standby time UMTS: Up to 250 hrs
• Video call time: Up to 2 hrs

Networks

• GSM GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900
• UMTS HSDPA 2100