Sony Xperia 1 VII Incoming: All-Exmor T Sensor Promises Imaging Upgrade, Dispelling Rumors of Mobile Business Abandonment?

Sony Xperia 1 VII Incoming: All-Exmor T Sensor Promises Imaging Upgrade, Dispelling Rumors of Mobile Business Abandonment?Sony Xperia phones have long been known for their high price tags and relatively limited market success. In 2021, Sony released 7 phone models; by 2024, that number plummeted to 2, fueling widespread speculation that Sony might abandon its smartphone business

Sony Xperia 1 VII Incoming: All-Exmor T Sensor Promises Imaging Upgrade, Dispelling Rumors of Mobile Business Abandonment?

Sony Xperia phones have long been known for their high price tags and relatively limited market success. In 2021, Sony released 7 phone models; by 2024, that number plummeted to 2, fueling widespread speculation that Sony might abandon its smartphone business. However, recent news suggests the imminent arrival of the Sony Xperia 1 VII, signaling a continuation of its smartphone line at least for this year.

The most significant upgrade in the Xperia 1 VII lies in its imaging system. Leaks suggest the device will, for the first time, feature Sony's latest Exmor T for mobile image sensors across all three rear cameras. This stands in stark contrast to the Xperia 1 VI released last year. The Xperia 1 VI only used the 1/1.35-inch Exmor T stacked CMOS sensor on its main camera; the ultrawide and telephoto lenses utilized decade-old Exmor RS sensors, resulting in noticeably weaker image performance.

Exmor T is Sony's latest stacked CMOS sensor, featuring its core dual-layer transistor pixel technology. Compared to its Exmor RS predecessor, Exmor T offers significantly improved noise control in low-light conditions and a wider dynamic range, capturing clearer and more detailed images. The Xperia 1 VII's use of Exmor T across all lenses means significantly improved image quality across all focal lengths a major leap forward for Sony's mobile imaging technology.

Despite the upgrade to the Exmor T sensor, the Xperia 1 VII's main camera will likely retain its 48MP resolution. The telephoto and ultrawide lenses will reportedly feature 1/3.5-inch and 1/2.5-inch sensors, respectively, both with 12MP resolution. This means sensor size and pixel count remain unchanged, but the superior performance of the Exmor T sensor promises a qualitative leap in image quality.

Beyond the hardware upgrades, Sony's continued investment in imaging technology in recent years suggests advancements in software algorithms for the Xperia 1 VII. We can expect enhanced AI-powered image optimization and a newly refined HDR algorithm, delivering a smarter and more versatile shooting experience. Users can anticipate more accurate white balance, superior detail reproduction, and more impactful image results.

Currently, details on other Xperia 1 VII specifications are scarce. Leaks suggest it will likely continue to use the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (likely the "for Galaxy" variant) processor, paired with at least 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage to meet the demands of high-performance users. Screen size, refresh rate, battery capacity, fast-charging capabilities, and other specifics remain unconfirmed.

For reference, its predecessor, the Xperia 1 VI, launched last May. It featured the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 12GB of RAM, a 5000mAh battery with 30W fast charging, and a 1080x2340 LTPO display with a peak brightness of 1300 nits. Camera-wise, in addition to the aforementioned 48MP Exmor T main camera and 12MP ultrawide lens, it included an 85mm-170mm equivalent telephoto lens (3.5x to 7.1x optical zoom) with macro capabilities and a minimum focusing distance of 4cm (2x magnification). The Xperia 1 VI was available in black, silver, and green, with a starting price of 1399 (approximately $1500 USD).

Following Sony's usual release schedule, the Xperia 1 VII is expected to be officially unveiled in early May 2025, with a market launch around June. Further details will likely emerge closer to the launch date.

The Xperia 1 VII not only signifies Sony's continued progress in imaging technology but also suggests it hasn't abandoned its smartphone ambitions. The all-Exmor T sensor setup will undoubtedly be a major selling point, potentially boosting the Xperia 1 VII's competitiveness in the high-end market. However, its ultimate success in the fiercely competitive smartphone landscape will depend on its ability to deliver on its promise of superior imaging and powerful hardware, coupled with compelling pricing and marketing. The phone's performance will be a crucial indicator of Sony's future smartphone strategy, and its success or failure will significantly impact Sony's position in the market.