As Sony continues to navigate the competitive landscape of premium Android handsets, the timing of the official announcement for the Xperia 1 VII could be seen as less than ideal. Unveiled just hours after Samsung's highly anticipated Galaxy S25 Edge, this new super-flagship smartphone demands a moment of your time, particularly for those residing in Europe. With an impressive array of features and specifications, the Xperia 1 VII stands out in the crowded smartphone market.
The Sony Xperia 1 VII boasts a stunning 6.5-inch OLED display, offering a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels along with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it is powered by the cutting-edge Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, running on the latest Android 15. Sony has committed to delivering four OS upgrades and six years of security patches, ensuring your device remains secure and up-to-date.
With 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD support for up to 2TB, the Xperia 1 VII provides ample space for apps, photos, and videos. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 48MP primary rear-facing camera featuring an f/1.9 aperture, complemented by a 12MP secondary telephoto sensor and a 48MP ultra-wide-angle lens with an f/2.0 aperture. A 12MP front-facing camera also features an f/2.0 aperture for high-quality selfies.
In terms of battery life, the 5,000mAh battery ensures that you can stay connected throughout the day. The device is rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, and both the front and back are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm headphone jack, full-stage stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos technology, and a USB Type-C 3.2 port. Available color options include Moss Green, Orchid Purple, and Slate Black.
While the Xperia 1 VII shares a similar aesthetic with its predecessor, the Xperia 1 VI, there are important distinctions that set this model apart. Notably, the ultra-wide-angle lens features a 48MP sensor that is not only superior in megapixel count but also physically larger than that of the previous model. This enhancement promises improved night photography, rivalling that of full-frame cameras.
Additionally, Sony has integrated advanced AI Camerawork and Auto Framing features, aiming to simplify the process of capturing professional-level videos. Although we will need to thoroughly review the Xperia 1 VII to determine the effectiveness of these new tools, they certainly hold promise for mobile videographers.
As expected from a flagship device, the Xperia 1 VII comes with a premium price tag of €1,499 and £1,399 for the 256GB storage variant in select European markets. This translates to approximately $1,670 and $1,850, making it more expensive than some of its direct competitors. For instance, the popular Galaxy S25 Ultra starts at £1,249 ($1,650), while the OnePlus 13 is priced at £899 ($1,186) for its entry-level configuration. Even Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced lower, starting at £1,199 ($1,580) for the base model.
While there are currently no official U.S. pricing details available, last year's Xperia 1 VI raises concerns that the Xperia 1 VII may not see a stateside release. This is particularly disheartening considering the phone's innovative combination of Alpha, Bravia, and Walkman technologies, along with its retention of the headphone jack and microSD card slot.
Despite some obvious drawbacks, the Sony Xperia 1 VII is a refreshing addition to today's mobile industry. With its impressive specifications, unique features, and a commitment to longevity through software updates, it remains a compelling choice for those seeking a high-end Android smartphone. However, the steep price and potential availability issues may give consumers pause as they weigh their options against formidable competitors in the market.
