Just a few days ago Sony Ericsson confirmed an early off-contract August launch for the Sony Ericsson Xperia arc. And now, on the eve of August, the official Sony Ericsson Online store launched a page allowing customers to pre-order the Android 2.3 device for $599.99 with an expected shipping date of 2 August. It is also possible to obtain an 18-month extended warranty for an additional $99.99.

Alternatively, for a better deal head over to Newegg.com to pick up this phone at a much lower cost. The Midnight Blue version is $474.99, while the Misty Silver version is slightly higher at $499.99, both down from $549.99. A one year extended warranty is $39.99, irrespective of the color of the device.

The slim device, which we absolutely loved at CES this year, runs Android 2.3 and features the following:

  • 1GHz Scorpion CPU (MSM8255)
  • Adreno 205 GPU
  • 512MB RAM
  • 512MB internal storage
  • 4.2" 854x480 TFT display
  • 8.1MP camera with F2.4 aperture, 720p recording, and Mobile Bravia Engine technology
  • 8.7mm
  • 117g
  • full HDMI out with HDMI CEC
  • multitouch
  • Custom UI

The arc runs on GSM 3G frequencies of AT&T only, so unless you want crawling EDGE speeds, we recommend you stick with AT&T as your carrier.

Sound like the phone for you, even though it's been lapped by its European sibling by a good number of months? Head on over to Newegg and order away.

Sources: Sony Ericsson Online Store, Newegg (Midnight Blue), Newegg (Misty Silver)