Sony Xperia 1 VIII brings updated ORE design and 50MP telephoto zoom sensor
Sony has released the updated Xperia 1 VIII. The new ORE design results in a textured back for extra grip. Additionally, the telephoto zoom camera has been upgraded. The relatively high purchase price remains the same. However, you will receive headphones for a limited time.
Sony is traditionally conservative with changes to the Xperia 1 series; this also applies to the 1 Mark 8. However, the new design suggests otherwise, altho changes are limited to the rear. The new finish feels like rough gemstones, as Sony describes it.
Technically, much of the hardware remains unchanged compared to the Xperia 1 VII: battery, screen, and other camera sensors are identical to the previous model. There is only a slightly newer Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and a new telephoto camera. It no longer features variable zoom, but a fixed 3x zoom. However, the sensor is four times larger, from 12 to 50 megapixels (48MP effective).
Wide camera range
With a wide range of focal lengths (16, 24, and 70mm), Sony believes it offers plenty of options for future customers. Moreover, digital zoom on the telephoto lens provides a 140mm reach, or you can take extreme close-ups as close as 15cm in macro with autofocus.
The Sony Xperia 1 VIII is available in four colours: Graphite Black, Iolite Silver, Garnet Red, and Native Gold. The latter is only available with 16GB/1TB storage; other colours come with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.
Prices start at €1499 for the 256GB model and go up to €1999 for the gold 1TB version. Despite the hefty price, Sony is trying to boost sales with a WH-1000XM6 bundle. Note: after May 31, this €379 benefit expires, drastically worsening the value for money.
