The Sony Xperia J is an affordable mid-range Smartphone that Amóvil was able to review thanks to a loan by the Vodafone Spain Foundation. The handset is very ergonomic and offers several state-of-the-art features. However, it is inaccessible to blind persons.

The device measures 124.3 x 61.2 x 9.2 mm and weighs 124 grams. It features an elegant and simple design that includes a TFT 4-inch display with 16 million colors. Despite having a resolution of only 480x854 pixels, it renders bright colors and sharp images.

The Xperia J comes with Android 4.0 pre-installed but users can upgrade it to the 4.1.2 version of the OS if they wish to. It is equipped with a 5 MP rear-side camera with autofocus and LED flash, and a front side camera for videocalls. This handset is also wifi and Bluetooth enabled, and provides GPS support.

Accessibility review

Vision

The Xperia J is inaccessible to the blind. While the screen reader does talk these users through most of the content and menus, several custom elements added by the manufacturer are not properly labeled thus incompatible with TalkBack.

Persons with partial vision, including the color blind, may also have a limited experience with this device. While the font size and style can be customized to meet their needs, this feature only works in some interfaces and menus. It also lacks of zooming and high contrast color schemes.

Hearing

The Xperia J does not include a built-in inductive coupler, so hearing aids users need a loopset to be able to use this phone in the T setting. However, some users might be able to use it in the microphone mode or through Bluetooth technology if their hearing aids or cochlear implants support it.

Hearing disabled users will also be able to send text messages or use any chat apps available for Android devices. Deaf users who prefer communicating in sign language will be able to make video calls using applications such as Skype or Google Hangouts.

An unfavorable aspect worth mentioning that may affect these users is that the LED notification is located at the bottom of the device, and may be imperceptible to some.

Dexterity

This smartphone includes some features that make it somewhat suitable for users with poor manual dexterity. Besides being lightweight, easy to grip and including a voice recognition feature, it is compatible with third party personal assistants available for Android devices, such as Sherpa, may improve these users experience. This handset is also compatible with Tecla Access Shield a wireless third party device that enables users with severe dexterity issues to control their smartphones using external switches such as their own wheelchairs.

Comprehension

The Xperia J includes standardized icons and symbols, and an option to customize the phone book and to arrange the home screen elements as needed. It also provides text thus suitable for people with limited comprehension skills.

For more details about the accessibility features included in this device, please consult the full accessibility report available in Amóvil.