Sony Xperia 1 VII Launches With New Ultrawide, AI & Hefty Price Tag

Sony has recently unveiled its latest flagship smartphone, the Xperia 1 VII, and while it may look similar to its predecessor at first glance, there are some significant upgrades under the hood. Let’s delve deeper into what’s new with this latest offering from Sony.

One of the most notable upgrades in the Xperia 1 VII is the inclusion of the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC. This powerful chipset, known for its performance in gaming, is paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Additionally, users have the option to expand the storage up to 2TB with a microSD card, a feature that sets Sony apart from many other flagship smartphones in 2025. The inclusion of a headphone socket, a rarity in today’s smartphone landscape, is also a nod to Sony’s commitment to user convenience.

The Xperia 1 VII retains the same 5000mAh battery capacity as its predecessor, but Sony claims improvements in battery life, with the device now capable of lasting up to two days on a single charge or over 36 hours of continuous video playback. However, the real-world performance will need to be tested in a full review to verify these claims.

In terms of display, the Xperia 1 VII features a 6.5-inch FHD+ 120Hz OLED panel that is 20% brighter than the previous model. Automatic color adjustments ensure an optimal viewing experience for users.

While most of the camera setup remains unchanged, the ultrawide camera has received a significant upgrade, now sporting a 50MP sensor for improved low-light performance. Sony has also incorporated AI features into the camera app to enhance creativity, including the ability to detect human and animal eyes, estimate the main subject of a shot, and track subjects intelligently throughout the frame.

A new official case, sold separately, adds ergonomic contouring to aid in photo shooting and includes a built-in kickstand for hands-free viewing. The Xperia 1 VII is available for pre-order in Slate Black, Moss Green, or Orchid Purple color options, but with a price tag of £1,399/€1,499, it is positioned at the higher end of the smartphone market.

Overall, the Xperia 1 VII brings significant upgrades in performance, camera capabilities, and battery life, making it a compelling option for smartphone enthusiasts. Sony’s attention to detail and commitment to user experience shine through in this latest flagship offering.