Stunning Sharp Aquos Crystal has world's thinnest smartphone frame
Slim phone design was discussed quite a lot last week thanks to the introduction of the 7mm thick Samsung Galaxy Alpha, and screen-size has always been a hot topic. Today we learn that Japanese company Sharp (who are owned by Softbank, the parent company of US carrier Sprint) is introducing a near bezel-less smartphone, the Sharp Aquos Crystal, and it looks beautiful.
Developers like LG have tried to maximize the screen-to-body ratio on mobile phones, as can be seen in its LG G3 flagship, but Sharp has taken this to the furthest extent yet, with a screen design that makes use of over 80% of the body. The Aquos Crystal, which arrives in Japan this month (August 29th), features a 5-inch, 1,280 x 720 pixel display, quad-core 1.2 GHz processor, 1.5 GB of RAM, and 8 GB of storage (which can be expanded to 128 GB with a microSD card). The 5.5-inch Aquos Crystal X comes with a 1,920 x 1,080 pixel display, Snapdragon 801 processor clocked at 2.3 GHz and 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB of internal storage capacity and is set for release in December 2014.
Take a look at the handset in action below.
Despite the noticeable chin at the bottom of the device, the Sharp design is undeniably impressive. Sprint has an upcoming event in New York on August 19th with the name "take the edge off" which we assume to mean that the Aquos Crystal will be on display.
What do you think of the Aquos Crystal and Crystal X? Would you consider one of these devices as your next Android smartphone?
Source: Sharp
If only it had better specs.. But still, can't beat the price!
True true
The large bezel on the bottom looks strange,a lot of space between the screen and what I assume is the front facing camera,and speaker slot.I thought at first it might be the earpiece,but it's too far over.And would require you to turn phone upside down when a call is received.The side bezels look great,but I would much prefer a more balanced look.More on the line of the LG G3.Too much unused space at the bottom for me.I think I'll pass on this one.It just looks weird and I still haven't seen how you're going to hear caller with no earpiece at top.
Yeah I think you're totally right. The bottom of the device is the most disappointing part, but I think this will only get smaller and smaller as Sharp continues to develop and improve.
Where is the earpiece?!?
Ahhhhhh wow I never even thought about that! It must be on the top I guess haha
I think the earpiece is down and while talking we have to invert the phone and talk lol
It is using a direct wave receiver which actually vibrates the entire screen in order to create sound, a bit like bone conduction headphones. So basically, if your ear is touching the glass, you should have crystal clear quality.
WHAT!? THAT'S AWESOME!
I know right! With this tech, it doesn't make a difference where you place your ear. Just as long it is on the glass. Read, exercise enthusiasts be weary haha
I'm in absolute awe of the design, but I hope we get to see the premium version and learn the practicality of the overall design.
Damn! We all should move to Japan.
Wow. Really love the design and the thin bezel. Look very exclusive.
Yes it certainly has a unique look