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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

  • Unmatched 4K 120Hz Display: The 6.5-inch 4K OLED with HDR delivers stunning visuals for movies and gaming.
  • Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 ensures top-tier performance for demanding tasks.
  • Pro Camera System: 48MP main sensor, 30fps AF/AE burst, and real-time Eye AF make it a photographer’s dream.
  • Audio Excellence: Features a 3.5mm headphone jack, Dolby Atmos, and 360 Reality Audio for audiophiles.
  • All-Day Battery: The 5000 mAh battery lasts a full day, even with the 4K display.
  • No mmWave 5G in US: Limits 5G performance in the US market.
  • Slow Charging: 30W charging is sluggish compared to competitors offering 65W or more.
  • Dim Display: Still not bright enough for outdoor HDR viewing.
  • Slippery Design: The tall 21:9 glass build is prone to slipping.
  • Complex Software: Photography Pro app is powerful but not user-friendly for casual users.
  • mmWave 5G Support: Include mmWave 5G for faster connectivity in all regions.
  • Brighter Display: Increase peak brightness to 1000cd/m² for better HDR visibility.
  • Faster Charging: Support 65W or higher fast charging to match competitors.
  • Simplified Camera Apps: Streamline Photography Pro for easier use by casual photographers.
  • Improved Cooling: Enhance thermal management to prevent throttling during intensive tasks.
  • Variable Refresh Rate: Add LTPO technology for a dynamic 1-120Hz refresh rate to save battery.
  • Grippier Design: Introduce a textured or matte finish to reduce slipperiness.

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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  • Published: 3/27/2025
  • Company: Sony
  • Category: Mobile