Sony Xperia PRO and PRO-I new software update allow them to support livestreaming while acting as external monitors

The Xperia PRO and PRO-I launched as alternative variants of the Sony Xperia 1 II and III respectively, and are pitched as Android smartphones for the working (and, most likely, wildly successful) photographer or videographer with the alpha- (or α-) series members that might be necessary to get the most out of both devices.

For example, the OEM designed them with the intention that they would double as external monitors for those cameras thanks to their rare HDMI capabilities. Now, Sony seeks to reinforce this impression with the release of new firmware for both allegedly 'genuinely Pro' devices that further augment this use-case.

Accordingly, the Xperia PRO and PRO-I external monitor menus will be updated with a new Livestreaming option. This feature is also joined by a Wave Form function allows the user to better visualize RGB balance and exposure, as well as False Color, which may help zero in on specific details so as to highlight them during filming.

Sony has also added new support for trigger controls (using relevant USB type-C accessories), which will show up alongside an improved heads-up style display for status items such as f-stop, ISO, shutter speed and recording status; however, it seems it is only ready for the Xperia PRO at this stage.

The updates should be showing up as OTA notifications from now on all PRO and PRO-I units worldwide.