The Sony Xperia 1 V, launched in May 2023, is a flagship smartphone that marks the pinnacle of Sony’s Xperia series at the time, succeeding the Xperia 1 IV. Priced at $1,399/£1,299 at release, it features a 6.5-inch 4K 120Hz OLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, and a triple camera system with Zeiss optics, aimed at multimedia enthusiasts and creative professionals. It’s the last Xperia to sport a 4K display and 21:9 aspect ratio, as its successor, the Xperia 1 VI, shifted to an FHD+ 19.5:9 display. With pro-grade apps like Photography Pro and advanced audio features, it caters to photographers, filmmakers, and audiophiles. In 2025, the Xperia 1 V remains a premium choice for niche users, though its high price and lack of mmWave 5G in some regions make it less competitive against newer flagships like the Xperia 1 VI.
Feature |
Sony Xperia 1 V |
Release Date |
May 2023 |
Display |
6.5" OLED, 4K (3840 x 1644), 120Hz, 21:9 aspect ratio, HDR |
Processor |
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 4nm |
RAM |
12GB (LPDDR5) |
Storage |
256GB/512GB, microSD support (up to 1TB) |
Rear Camera |
Triple 48MP (main f/1.9, OIS), 12MP (ultra-wide f/2.2), 12MP (telephoto f/2.3-f/2.8), Zeiss lenses |
Front Camera |
12MP, f/2.0 |
Battery |
5000 mAh, 30W fast charging, wireless charging |
OS |
Android 13 (upgradable to Android 15) |
Build |
Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front and back), IP65/68 water/dust resistant |
Connectivity |
5G (sub-6), 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC |
Price (Launch) |
$1,399 / £1,299 |
The Sony Xperia 1 V remains a multimedia powerhouse in 2025, particularly for creative professionals who value its 4K 120Hz display and pro-grade camera features. Its cinematic 21:9 aspect ratio, paired with advanced audio features like Dolby Atmos and 360 Reality Audio, makes it a top choice for movie buffs and audiophiles. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 ensures it can handle demanding tasks, and the 5000 mAh battery provides all-day endurance. However, its high launch price, dim display, and lack of mmWave 5G in the US make it less appealing compared to newer flagships like the Xperia 1 VI, which offers a more modern 19.5:9 display and better connectivity, albeit at the cost of 4K resolution. The slow charging and complex camera apps also hinder its mainstream appeal. If you’re a Sony enthusiast or a professional needing its niche features, the Xperia 1 V—now discounted to around $999—offers great value. For most users, however, newer models or competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S25 provide a more well-rounded experience.
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