CES 2012: Sony Xperia smart phones pack 12MP cameras, LTE support, and more

Sony's latest smart phones, the Xperia ion and Xperia S, have 12-megapixel cameras, support LTE 4G networks, and have the ability to wirelessly sync their content with compatible Sony HDTVs and other devices. These are the first phones to launch under the Sony brand since Sony Ericsson became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation back in October.

The Xperia Ion smart phone, available from AT&T in the "spring" for an undisclosed price, has two HD cameras. The rear-facing, 12-megapixel camera can record video at 1080P and promises to be able to snap a picture within 1.5 seconds from standby mode, while the front-facing camera can capture video at 720P.

The Ion's 4.6-inch high-resolution display (1280 x 720) is also among the largest and sharpest we've seen. Other features include a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor and built-in NFC technology that works with Google Wallet and similar services that enable you to pay for items by tapping your phone against the register.

The similarly equipped Xperia S, available in "select" global markets at the end the first quarter for an undisclosed price, has a slightly smaller, 4.3-inch display, but adds the ability to capture stills and pictures in 3D via two rear-facing cameras. Oddly, unlike other 3D phones we've tested, the phone's display is not 3D. But you can view the content by wirelessly beaming it to a compatible Sony HDTV with 3D capability.

Video quality of the 3D cameras max out 720P, but the front-facing HD camera can record video at 1080P. The phone is PlayStation-certified and provides users with full access to the PlayStation Store.

Both phones will run Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) out of the box, but will be able to upgrade to Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) later this year.

—Mike Gikas