Sony's Xperia 1 VIII has bigger camera sensors and a new look

Source: Engadget

Overview

Sony has launched its new flagship, the Xperia 1 VIII, with a focus on photography. The device introduces an AI Camera Assistant powered by Xperia Intelligence, which can automatically recognize the scene, subject, and weather conditions to suggest optimal color tones, lens choices, and bokeh effects. Users can tap a suggestion to apply it instantly.

Camera Features

• AI Camera Assistant – Analyzes the scene and offers real‑time setting adjustments.
• Telephoto Sensor – New 1/1.56‑inch image sensor, roughly four times larger than the previous model’s, delivering detailed images in low light.
• Processing – RAW multi‑frame processing, HDR, and noise reduction for low‑light photography.
• Rear Camera Layout – All rear lenses are now arranged in a square module.
• Front Camera – 12‑megapixel sensor for selfies.

Design and Audio

• 3.5 mm Audio Jack – Retains a wired headphone port, a rarity on modern smartphones.

Display and Performance

• Screen – 6.5‑inch OLED display.
• Processor – Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform.

Pricing and Availability

• Configurations
  • 12 GB RAM / 256 GB storage – €1,499 / £1,399
  • 16 GB RAM / 1 TB storage – €1,999 / £1,849
• Colors – Graphite Black, Iolite Silver, Garnet Red, Native Gold.
• Pre‑order – Available now for European customers, with shipments expected in June. No US release planned at this time.
• Pre‑order Bonus – Free Sony WH‑1000XM6 headphones.