Android 2.1 Eclair Update Now Available For The AT&T Xperia X10 Smartphone

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Sony Ericsson and AT&T have finally announced the update for the Xperia X10 smartphone, though while that sounds like good news we are not all that certain everyone will be as happy when they hear the version — Android 2.1 Eclair.

Yup, while most Android smartphone updates now are heading towards Android 2.3, the Xperia X10 is getting Android 2.1. Heck, many smartphones are now launching with 2.2 Froyo or 2.3 Gingerbread and we are looking forward to 2.4 Ice Cream Sandwich. That being said, we suppose we can say better late then never.

Not to mention, regardless of your feelings towards Android 2.1, we can say one thing — 2.1 is better than what was there — Android 1.6 Donut. Hey, if nothing else maybe we can see the percentage for Donut drop that much further the next time Google offers an updated usage breakdown of the Android version numbers.

And in case anyone has forgotten, (which may have happened being we have not talked about 2.1 lately) here is what you can expect in terms of new features;

• 720p HD Video capture
• Multi-touch support
• Continuous autofocus in still and video capture
• Face detection in video capture
• Expanded homescreens increased from three to five.

With that, those rocking an AT&T branded Xperia X10 will need a fully charged device along with a PC, wall charger and USB cable to move forward with the update. Yup, the update is a manual download and install with a required computer — no OTA update. But on the bright side, Sony Ericsson does provide a nice walk through which includes first heading to the Android Market to download an app called X10 Backup so you can be safe instead of sorry.

Otherwise, once ready and backed up, you will need to download and install (or update) the PC Companion app on your computer, then connect your phone and proceed to follow the on-screen directions. All said and done, the update process is said to take 30 minutes. Still, with the other steps involved, we would set aside an hour or so.