Sony offers user experience of brilliance inside out on the Xperia SP via HD display, compact size and mesmerising illumination bar. If you own an Xperia SP, know the tips and tricks to get improved performance and extended battery life.

1. Software Update

Get the latest Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean version via Sony PC Companion to your Sony Xperia SP. It has a build version of 12.0.A.2.254 and includes several changes on the device such as transparent notifications bar and soft keys.

2. Get an Antivirus!

Xperia SP features full HD display and relatively transfers data quickly over Wi-Fi which may put you on Internet surfing mode for hours. Download antivirus from Play Store to ensure maximum protection against malware and spywares.

3. Backup and Restore

Assuming you have included an SD card for the Xperia SP, use the Backup and Restore app to create a copy all data files and apps stored on your device to the memory card. It is advisable to do this when factory reset forces you to apply on the system.

4. Read the Guide and Support

A support app is installed on the smartphone which gives you access to various FAQs, how-to and troubleshooting methods for the device. It requires an Internet connection to access the data from Sony. In addition to support, the app will also allow you to download a soft copy of its user manual.

5. Update Centre

Use the Update Centre regularly to check any new updates for the device. Sony already confirmed Android 4.3 Jelly Bean for Xperia SP and expected to arrive before 2013 ends. Other firmware releases may include bug fixes and battery improvements as well.

6. Data Usage Management

Go to Settings > Data Usage, and view all the apps consuming data on both mobile and Wi-Fi connection. Press the Menu on the top right and enable Restrict Background Data to prevent apps from retrieving online information whenever you are on mobile data connection. Don't forget to set data usage cycle to keep a close monitor.

7. Call Audio Improvements

You can improve the call audio output quality on the Xperia SP by simply going to Settings > Call Settings > then enable the following features:

a. Microphone Noise Suppression - Your voice will become clearer

b. Equaliser - Choose between Bright, Smooth or Normal

c. Speaker Voice Enhancement - Richer voice listening experience

d. Slow Talk - Slows down the speech of the other calling party

8. Maximising Notifications Audio

Clear Phase and XLoud affects the audio output on the built-in speaker of Xperia SP which also improves notifications sound and alerts. Go to Settings > Sound > Check Clear Phase and XLoud.

9. USB Flash Disks Allowed

Sony Xperia SP supports USB-on-the-go cable or OTB which can connect your smartphone to a USB flash disk drive. It can view photos, movies, music and other data files stored on the flash disk.

10. Transfer Data to SD Card

If you want to transfer data from the internal storage to the SD card quickly, use the built-in feature on the phone. Go to Settings > Storage > Transfer data on SD card. You will get a pop-up which files you would like to be transferred.

11. DUALSHOCK 3 Wireless Controller

Use the Xperia SP as a DualShock 3 controller for the PlayStation gaming console. Go to Settings > Xperia > DualShock > Follow the instructions provided.

12. Automated Internet Settings

Depending on your location, network carrier configuration may only be obtained by calling your service provider. But in the case of Xperia SP, you can automatically download the Internet and MMS settings by going to Settings > Xperia > Internet settings.

13. Sony PC Companion

Sony PC Companion is one of the best PC suite for mobile phones available and it allows you to access firmware updates, Sony MediaGO for multimedia file transfer and conversion, sync contacts and information from different devices and create backup files for you.

14. Installing Sony PC Companion

If you are looking for the CD installer, expect nothing from the box as the installer is already inside the Xperia SP. Go to Settings > Xperia > Connectivity > Check/uncheck Install PC Companion. Once the device is connected to the computer via USB, a prompt will ask for Sony PC Companion installation.

15. Virtual Keyboards

Aside from the international keyboard, Sony Xperia SP also comes with Xperia Chinese and Japanese virtual keyboards with some modifications allowed. Moreover, you can change the style and theme of these keyboards. Go to Settings > Language & input > Keyboard & input methods.

16. Enlarging the Font

Xperia SP uses the default font size and may not be enough for your viewing experience. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Large text, this will enlarge all fonts on the device including Play Store texts and Web browser.

17. Make the Device Snappy

Go to Settings > Developer options > Swipe to right to enable > set the Window animation scale, transition animation scale and animator duration scale to zero or 0.5x for faster and snappier feeling.

18. The Illumination Bar

Xperia SP is one among few phones which features an illumination bar that lights up with notifications, calls, alerts, music and photos. You can customise its functions on the Settings > Display > Light effects while specific contact lights can be done on Contacts > click a contact > edit contact > Light effect. For additional customisation, download the Illumination Bar application found on the Play Store.

Memory and Power Management

19. Use Themes than Live Wallpaper

Xperia SP features several Xperia themes such as Silk, Amber and Ruby with independent wallpaper and lock screen provided. Press and hold on an empty space on the home screen till the device vibrates, select Themes and then choose which one looks good for you. Themes save more power compared to live wallpapers.

Screenshot By: Ryan Inoyori

20. Disable Wireless Connection

If you are not using any wireless connection, better to disable them to extend battery life. Simply pull the notifications bar at the top of the screen and press the toggles. Highlighted toggles are active while dull ones are disabled.

21. Application Management

Remove unnecessary apps on your phone to save space, reduce data usage and improve battery life. Go to Settings > Apps > Select app > Uninstall or Disable.

22. Display Management

BRAVIA for mobile enhances image and video quality on the device but also consumes some amount of power. You can disable it, minimise brightness level or reduce screen time-out duration to improve battery level. Go to Settings > Display and choose which functions you like to keep.

23. STAMINA Mode

Enable the STAMINA mode to drastically improve the standby time of its battery. It disables wireless connection, mobile data, auto-syncing and more to save power but will not interfere with calls, SMS/MMS, music player or downloads. STAMINA mode functions whenever the screen is turned off.

24. Low Battery Mode

For extended battery life aside from STAMINA mode, enable the Low Battery Mode feature. It modifies other factors which drain power such as brightness, wireless connections, screen time-out and vibration.

25. Location-based Wi-Fi

In case you always forget to turn off your Wi-Fi connection, enable the Location-based Wi-Fi power saving tool. Go to Settings > Power management > Location-based Wi-Fi, it will turn off and on the Wi-Fi automatically whenever in range of a saved Wi-Fi network.

Sony Xperia SP is considered one of the best choice among mid-range devices in 2013 as it features Qualcomm Snapdragon dual-core processor, 1 GB RAM, 8 MP Exmor camera and full HD display.