It almost seems like a ritual at this point to expect a new Android handset from Sony, and this time, it’s called the Sony Ericsson Xperia Ray. Fresh from the bakery, this new Android phone will come with the latest Android Gingerbread (2.3) while giving users the options of black, gold, white, or pink as their color of choice. Though it might not be as high-tiered as other Sony Ericsson handsets, the spec sheet on this phone looks quite delicious, especially if the price is right, though that has yet to be announced. Specs include:

• 1GHz Snapdragon CPU
• 3.3” 854×480 screen
• Mobile BRAVIA Engine (optimized for video viewing)
• 8.1MP camera with Exmor R for Mobile and HD
• Front Facing Camera
• 3G, Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g) and GPS
• 9.4mm thin

The Xperia Ray, which will have full access to the Android Market, is targeted for Q3 in Japan and other select markets. As always, hit the jump for the full press release and additional photos.

 Sony Ericsson today announced Xperia™ ray – a stunning new smartphone alongside CommunicAsia 2011 in Singapore. With a 3.3” screen and running the latest Android platform for smartphones (Gingerbread 2.3), the phone packs in a powerful 1Ghz processor, Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine, a 8.1mp camera with Exmor R™ for mobile and HD video functionality. At only 9.4mm thin, Xperia™ ray incorporates market leading design for which Sony Ericsson has become known. To add to a full set of specifications, the phone incorporates a front facing camera and a scratch resistant screen with excellent resolution and brightness and integrated touch keys. Sony Ericsson’s unique integration of Facebook inside Xperia™ delivers a unique consumer experience for greater social interaction. In combination with the Google services, as well as access to over 200,000 Apps via the Android Market™, it provides a solid and entertaining smartphone foundation.Daniel Sandblom, Global Product Marketing Manager, Sony Ericsson said: “We expect Xperia™ ray to appeal to consumers who are looking for a combination of beautiful design and a rich feature set. We are able to uniquely deliver this with a combination of premium materials and multimedia features provided by Sony.”

 Sony Ericsson Xperia™ ray will be available globally in selected markets, including Japan, from Q3 2011.