Sharp’s new Aquos smartphone wins with 440 ppi display, fails on everything else

Images and specs on Sharp’s new Aquos SH930W smartphone have hit the web thanks to Russian website Hi-Tech. The smartphone is scheduled for release in Russian on 8 November and points to Sharp broadening its horizons.

Previous versions of this device, the XX203SH and SH-02E, were exclusive releases in Japan. This recent expansion into Russia could mean that users across the globe could experience the Aquos’ stunning 440 ppi display. That’s right 440 ppi on a five-inch display, surpassing the pixel density of both the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S III by more than 100 pixels per inch.

The Aquos falls disappointingly short on processing ability, fitted with Qualcomm’s 8260 dual-core 1.5 Ghz and Adreno 225 processors. It also features a 2100 mAh battery that should provide a decent day’s worth of usage. We have not gotten our hands on this device, but we can tell that most of the processing and battery power will be put to use keeping that impressive screen beautiful and crisp.

The SH930W (doesn’t quite roll of the tongue with ease) also features 2GB of RAM and 32GB of microSD expandable storage. Its supported by Android 4.1 Jellybean but no news on whether or not an update will be made available. The one downside of this smartphone is its lack of 4G/LTE connectivity, a rather big oversight considering smartphones with LTE functionality is the norm.

If Sharp is looking to branch out into other regions with the Aquos, it needs to address the processor and LTE issue for this device to be considered a legitimate contender in the HD smartphone market. A better sounding name wouldn’t hurt either.

[Image Credit]