Sony Xperia PRO-I

The Sony Xperia PRO-I, released in December 2021, is a flagship smartphone designed for photography enthusiasts and professionals, boasting a 1-inch camera sensor—the largest in a smartphone at the time. Priced at $1,799 at launch, it features a 6.5-inch 4K OLED display, Snapdragon 888 chipset, and advanced camera features like a variable aperture and 20fps burst shooting, drawing heavily from Sony’s Alpha camera technology. The “I” in PRO-I stands for “Imaging,” highlighting its focus on professional-grade photography with apps like Photography Pro and Cinematography Pro. In 2025, the Xperia PRO-I remains a niche device for creatives, though its high price, lack of mmWave 5G in some regions, and dated processor make it less competitive against newer flagships like the Xperia 1 V.

The Sony Xperia PRO-I is a photographer’s dream, offering unparalleled camera performance with its 1-inch sensor and pro-grade features, making it a standout device for creatives in 2025. Its 4K 120Hz display and robust audio capabilities further enhance its appeal for multimedia enthusiasts. However, its $1,799 launch price, lack of mmWave 5G, and average battery life make it a tough sell compared to newer flagships like the Xperia 1 V, which offer better performance and connectivity for less. The complex camera apps and slippery design also limit its mainstream appeal. If you’re a professional photographer or filmmaker who can find the Xperia PRO-I at a discount—recent deals have dropped it to around $1,099—it’s a fantastic tool. For most users, however, more well-rounded options like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro provide better value and versatility.