Sony Ericsson to launch a video handset

AS CONSPIRACY theories go, the INQ likes the latest rumour from The Business that Sony will launch its counter-attack to the recent release of the Apple video iPod via Sony Ericsson, the handset joint venture.

Why not have a device that can actually capture video as well as play back video clips? That's exactly what the latest smartphones can do. The basis for this curious leak appears to be somebody working in Sony Ericsson's UK R&D Labs.

Apparently, building on the fact that its smartphones looklike Sony Cybershot cameras from the rear, the new video Walkman will look like a regular video player with a large screen. However, a keyboard will slide out from under the screen when the user needs to make a phone call.

According to the publication, all will be revealed tomorrow evening (Monday 17th). Hmm. The INQ thought that was just a drinks party. But then Nokia did reveal its E series handsets at a drinks party last week. µ