Mobile software retailer Handango has seemingly confirmed that the Sony Ericsson XPERIA X1 smartphone will be released in mid-September this year.  The news came as part of Handango’s regular ‘Content Partner’ newsletter, in a section requesting that developers submit applications suitable for the X1’s 800 x 480 touchscreen display.  It also confirms that the distributor’s own InHand software - which allows app downloads direct to a device rather than to an intermediary PC - will be preinstalled on the device.

So far Sony Ericsson themselves have only stated that they intend to launch the X1 in the second-half of 2008.  They are yet to comment on Handango’s disclosure.  However several online retailers already have the smartphone available for pre-order, with widely ranging price-tags.

A Windows Mobile 6.1-powered device with high-res touchscreen, slide-out QWERTY keyboard and innovative ‘Panels’ GUI overlay, the X1 is the first in Sony Ericsson’s XPERIA series and the first time they have used the Microsoft OS.  In terms of connectivity, it is GSM with HSDPA high-speed cellular broadband, WiFi and Bluetooth. 

Click the thumbnail to read the full newsletter confirmation:

[via mobiholics & Engadget Mobile]