Sony Xperia 1 VIII Debuts with Enhanced Telephoto Sensor and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

The new Sony Xperia 1 VIII features a larger 1/1.56” sensor in its telephoto camera, which is four times larger than the one in the Mark 7 model and provides four times the resolution. The redesigned camera island incorporates the latest Qualcomm chipset while retaining classic Xperia features, such as expandable storage, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a two-stage shutter key.

In a significant departure from previous models, the Xperia 1 VIII locks its telephoto camera to 70mm (providing 2.9x magnification from the 24mm main lens). This camera utilizes the new 48MP sensor for higher zoom levels. The telephoto module has an f/2.8 aperture, promising improved dark performance. In contrast, the Mark 7 camera had a wider f/2.3 aperture at 3.5x zoom, which narrowed to f/3.5 at its maximum 7.1x zoom capability.

The primary camera modules remain unchanged: a 48MP 1/1.35” main camera (24mm f/1.9 lens with OIS), a 48MP 1/1.56” ultra-wide camera (16mm f/2.0 lens), and a 12MP selfie camera (1/2.9” sensor, 24mm f/2.0 lens). Sony has implemented RAW multi-frame processing across all cameras, enhancing the dynamic range and reducing noise in low-light conditions while preventing clipped highlights and crushed shadows.

Another significant upgrade in this generation is the incorporation of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, which replaces last year’s 8 Elite chip. This new chipset offers a 20% increase in CPU performance, a 23% faster GPU, and a power usage reduction of up to 20%.

The device comes with a base configuration of 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, with options for up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Notably, the microSD slot remains available—a rarity in today’s market, even among mid-range phones, let alone flagship models.

The Snapdragon chip's AI accelerator powers the AI Camera Assistant feature (marketed as Xperia Intelligence). This feature analyzes a scene, including subjects and weather conditions, suggesting adjustments to settings such as color tones and lens effects. Users can easily accept the AI recommendations with a single tap or manually adjust settings for improved results.

Sony’s legacy in audio quality is represented by the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack, which facilitates lossless, latency-free audio without the need for recharging headphone batteries. Furthermore, the system includes balanced left and right speakers, optimized to enhance bass depth, treble clarity, and overall soundstage.

While some aspects remain constant, such as the screen specifications—a 6.5” LTPO panel with up to a 120Hz refresh rate—and the 5,000mAh battery, there are some drawbacks. The flat display features no cutouts (with the camera positioned in the upper bezel), pleasing many, yet the 1080p+ resolution feels low, particularly compared to the series' history of 4K displays.

The battery supports the same charging capabilities as before: 30W wired and 15W wireless, which now feel outdated by 2025 standards.

Sony Xperia 1 VIII Color Options

Sony has introduced four color variants for the Xperia 1 VIII, inspired by natural materials: Graphite Black, Iolite Silver, Garnet Red, and Native Gold. An official case with a built-in stand, designed to function in both portrait and landscape modes and made from translucent, yellowing-resistant material, is also available.

Prospective buyers can pre-order the Sony Xperia 1 VIII starting today, available directly from Sony or select online retailers. The base 12GB/256GB model is priced at €1,500 / £1,400 and will include a complimentary pair of Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones during the pre-order period. The exclusive 1TB Native Gold model, available only through Sony, is priced at €2,000 / £1,850. Shipping is slated to begin in June.