Compare Xperia Z1 Handset Deals

Sony has released its latest power-packed smart phone to UK consumers: Sony Xperia Z1. Some of its stunning features include the most powerful processor in a mobile phone and a completely waterproof body. The phone brings several enhancements over its predecessor: the Xperia Z, which introduced an all-glass design in place of the former plastic bodies.

Your Guide to the Sony Xperia Z1 Mobile Phone

Specifications

• Dimensions: 144.4 by 73.9 by 8.5 mm
• Weight: 169 grams
• Display: 5.0 inch Full HD TRILUMINOS™ Display with 16,777,216 colours and 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Camera: 20.7 megapixel camera with auto focus and pulsed LED
• Memory: 2GB RAM and up to 16GB flash memory
• Processor: 2.2 GHz Qualcomm MSM8974 Quad Core
• Expansion slot: up to 64GB microSD card; supports SDXC
• OS: Android 4.2
• Durability: Waterproof and dustproof
• Connectivity & Communication:
o ANT+ wireless technology
o USB High speed 2.0
o Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology
o Wi-Fi & WiFi Hotspot functionality
o Native USB tethering
o aGPS
o 3.5 mm audio jack
• Entertainment:
o 3D and motion gaming
o “WALKMAN” application
o "Movies" application
o SensMe and SensMe slideshow
o FM Radio with RDS
o TV launcher
o PlayStation Certified
o 3D surround sound


Design

One of the first attractions of Sony Xperia Z1 is its sleek glass body. The cover is made of glass at the back and front as in the Xperia Z model. In addition, it features a new aluminium frame, which gives it more strength and luxurious feel. The smart phone also adds a dedicated camera shutter button.

However, most of its visible features are in the same positions as in its predecessor, which may somewhat disappoint consumers interested in letting others know that they have the latest smart phone in the market.

It’s advisable to keep a cleaning cloth handy because the glass body is likely to leave fingerprints. Although Sony uses toughened glass, users still need to take good care of their smart phones to avoid scratches or breakage. It may be necessary to carry it inside a case although that will make it even bulkier considering that the wide bezel around the display already makes the phone rather large. The wide bezel also sacrifices some of its aesthetic appeal.

Fortunately, Xperia Z1 is not prone to water damage because it is completely water proof. It can survive for up to 30 minutes underwater at a depth of one and a half metres. This means it can cope well with accidental drops in water or splashes that can ruin other mobile phones.

Rubberised flaps are used to cover the main ports, and the headphone jack’s internal chamber is waterproofed, removing the need for a cover. This is a handy feature because some users may forget to reseal the port after use. What’s more, sealing and re-sealing does not appeal to some users.

Camera

The 20.7 megapixel camera features various technologies used in compact digital cameras from Sony for capturing and processing images. Its SteadyShot™ technology allows users to take sharp pictures and smooth videos.

Users can broadcast what they are capturing in real time, thanks to the included Social Live app. Response from Facebook friends also appears directly on the screen with images featuring in the background.

Other handy camera apps include:

• Info-eye™ - Provides instant information about captured images
• Timeshift-burst – Captures 61 frames within two seconds, allowing users to choose the best shot
• AR Effect – Adds fun animations to pictures

Display

The five-inch display is large enough for comfortable viewing. In addition to the full HD resolution, Sony uses what it calls “Triluminous” display technology that it applies to its high-end TVs to improve colour and brightness. However, the human eye can hardly make the difference in such a small screen, which is already great.

Although the price of Sony Xperia Z1 is quite high at £600, the smart phone is available in a variety of plans, from a SIM-free option of £550 to a two-year contract at £29 a month.