Today, Sony announced their new and improved Xperia Z Ultra, which is not only faster – thanks to the incredible 2.2 Ghz Snapdragon 800 – but also a lot larger as well, coming in at 6.4-inches. Of course, that’s just the screen size, the actual device measures 179.4 x 92.2 x 6.5 mm which is real thin but, real big as well. It looks like Sony has realized that this could cause “issues” for those that don’t want to hold such a massive device to their heads and so, they’ve created the SBH52 Smart Bluetooth clip to go with it. Sony are billing this as a “dual-function audio accessory” but, let’s get this out-of-the-way right now; it’s a mini-phone, for your big phone.
If you’ve ever used one of those media remotes from Walkmans of old, you’ll know exactly what to expect here. The diminutive device is geared up with a small OLED display that will read out caller ID, track names, radio stations and SMS messages. You can use the clip to keep it on your person and you can also plug a pair of earphones into the thing as well, to make sure you get the best out of it.
As the image at the top of the page suggests, this can be used just like a small cell phone, it’s equipped with an earpiece and all you need do is tap once to answer a call. You can also use the display to view recent calls and place calls, all without having to take the phone out of your pocket. This is all pretty nifty and the range of 10 meters should be more than enough for most of us.
The SBH52 is equipped with NFC, just like its smartwatch friend, and so pairing with the Xperia Z Ultra is a smooth experience. The Smart Bluetooth clip seems like a pretty neat solution to a problem that Sony themselves have created. Upon closer inspection, it looks like this is a little more than just a mini-phone for your large phone. Much like the HTC Mini, the SBH52 might only appeal to those that don’t like larger smartphones but, that raises the question of why buy one in the first place?