Sony Xperia XZ1 images surface showing design and specifications

As we have come to expect of new product releases, details have leaked regarding Sony's new Xperia XZ1 smartphone ahead of a potential announcement at IFA 2017. This time we have some photos showing an entirely predictable and recognizable Sony handset along with the temporary packaging screen protector listing its specifications.

Regarding design, it looks very similar to the Xperia XZ and XZ Premium with the same curved sides, square edges, and flat top and bottom edges. This design is one of the more polarizing ones on a smartphone which always provokes strong opinions for or against when discussed amongst our staff. The dual front facing speakers are still present as are the larger bezels required to hold them. We aren't sure if it is just the angle of the photo, but the bottom bezel does appear to be slightly smaller and less symmetrical than the previous XZ models. The antenna lines have been changed on the back giving more of a seamless uni-body look, while the module holding the flash was moved to a horizontal position next to the lens. The iconic power button (and also fingerprint scanner in most markets) remains on the right side, as does the useful dedicated camera button for quick launching the camera and using half-press to focus.

As for specifications, we can see it has:

• Snapdragon 835

• 64 GB of UFS flash storage

• 5.2" HDR compatible display

• 19 MP camera with 960 fps super slow motion

• IP65/68 water and dust resistance

• Hi-Res audio (DAC not specified)

• PS4 remote play

Our interpretation of the display is that it is probably 1080p because it is highly likely that Sony would be advertising a 1440p or 4k display more prominently. So while it supports HDR like the XZ Premium it is likely to be at a lower resolution. The camera is the same resolution as the XZ Premium and has the same 960 fps feature so this could be the same lens and sensor combination. This will be a good move if it is the case, as the 19 MP camera on the XZ Premium took superior shots to the 23 MP one on the original Xperia XZ.

With IFA 2017 coming up in a few weeks there is a good chance that we won't have to wait for long before we can confirm these specifications.

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