Sony z1 photos. Mobile phone Sony Xperia Z1. An operating system is a system software that manages and coordinates the operation of hardware components in a device

Flagship smartphones to which the model in question Sony Xperia Z1 and refers to, they usually demonstrate all the best that was achieved by the manufacturer by the time the new product was released. The latest solutions implemented in the Xperia family were characterized by the presence of an “aristocratic” design, protection from moisture and dust, a user-friendly graphical shell and wide multimedia capabilities. In addition, they had excellent characteristics, an affordable price and high efficiency, which was demonstrated by official photos. Submitted by reviewSony Xperia Z1 will show whether the model fits into this series, as well as how it differs.

Features of the design style of the Sony Xperia Z1 smartphone

At one time, the Xperia Z model was presented as the first smartphone in the brand new OmniBalance design style, and the device in question Sony Xperia Z1 develops this concept. The somewhat angular body of the device seems monolithic, which not everyone can demonstrate. The front and back panels, made of glass with resistance to damage, essentially form a single whole with a slightly rounded and convex side frame made of aluminum alloy.

Looking at Sony Xperia Z1 photo, one immediately notices the abundance of empty space on the front panel. The device offers three body color options: black, white, purple. The device has grown in size (144*74*8.5 instead of 139*71*7.9), and also became heavier, weighing 170g versus 146g. The smartphone does not slip as much in the hand and is held more confidently, which it also demonstrates. On the front panel in its upper part there is a front camera lens, as well as light and distance sensors, an event/discharge indicator and a speaker. The back panel has a 20-megapixel main camera lens, flash and an additional microphone. At the upper structural end of the case there is a 3.5mm headset jack. Moreover, this model does not have a plug, which increases convenience when frequently listening to music on headphones. After immersion in water, it is strongly recommended that you simply shake out any remaining water and do not use the headset for two hours.

At the bottom end of the body Sony Xperia Z1 price which is indicated below, a microphone and a speaker are placed, and the location of the latter is extremely successful, since it is now quite difficult to close it accidentally. In the right edge there is a secure slot for microSIM, a lock/power button in the corporate style of a “metal rivet”, which would also look good on a tablet, a volume rocker, as well as a separate key for shooting, which was definitely missing from its predecessor. The left side of the device is occupied by closed slots for SD and microUSB memory cards in combination with a connector for a charging dock. There are also holes for attaching a strap.

Constantly closing/opening the plug for a slot with a microUSB connector, for example, for connecting to a computer equipped with, causes reasonable irritation, but Sony Xperia Z1 characteristics you have to pay. The smartphone has official certification for compliance with standardization for protection from moisture and dust, which allows it to continue its functionality even after immersion for half an hour in fresh water within a depth of 1.5 m.

Camera - implementation features

One of the main features of a smartphone, which reviewSony Xperia Z1 I should pay attention to the fact that there is a 20.7-pixel integrated camera with a sensor (½.3 inches) called Exmor RS for mobile. This matrix size captures more light and also reduces noise in low light conditions. Moreover, in the chamber Sony Expiria There is a proprietary technology from the manufacturer called BIONZ for mobile for intelligent image processing, which functionally ensures photo clarity, fast autofocus and assistance during video shooting in eliminating blur.

In addition to the standard settings installed by the camera software Sony Xpiria Several more interesting possibilities are offered. For example, when the Timeshift burst mode is activated, the device will take 61 pictures in just two seconds, which is something the model clearly lacks, from which you can later choose the best option. The Social Life app allows you to share your footage in real time with other Facebook users, and comments posted on it will immediately appear on the screen. There are also two modes related to augmented realism: Info-eye, which allows you to find additional information about an object in the frame, and AR Effect, which has the potential to combine pictures with a variety of fun animations. You can also apply one of nine possible graphic effects to the photo. Overall, the main camera is great.

About the front camera Sony reviewZ1 can state that it is mainly intended for video chats, is equipped with a 2-megapixel sensor and shoots with a resolution of 1920*1080 pixels. Video recording, the excellent quality of which the tablet also demonstrates, at 30 fps is performed in 1080p Full HD resolution. In this case, clips are saved in an MP4 file container, and the AAC LC format is provided for audio files.

Display and sound capabilities of the Sony Xpiria smartphone

The device model in question received a five-inch TFT screen, which is located below SonyZ1 video demonstrates more clearly, with a Full HD 1920*1080 resolution and a pixel density of 441ppi. The display brightness can be adjusted in manual and automatic modes, and the available multi-touch support allows for simultaneous processing of up to 10 touches.

It is known that TFT screens at large viewing angles produce a slightly whitish picture and somewhat faded colors. To improve this situation, the developers integrated unique technologies in the form of Triluminos, as well as X-Reality. The first of them transmits a larger color spectrum, which is especially important for monochromatic photos, and the second automatically adjusts brightness and contrast. As a final result, the Sony Xperia Z1 review can state that the screen of the device in question has become noticeably better relative to its predecessor, although no miracles have happened, since there are a series of models on the market with more preferable displays.

In terms of sound, Sony Expiria is practically no different from its predecessor. The sound quality and volume of the “musical” speaker can be called average and clearly not comparable to flagship performance. However, when you connect headphones, the situation changes radically, and the device demonstrates transparent and clear sound. By the way, now they are no longer included with the smartphone and must be purchased separately.

Sony Xperia Z1 Software

Those who wish buy Sony XperiaZ1 You should know that the manufacturer traditionally equips its smartphones with a user-friendly Timescape graphical shell, which is very organically integrated into the Android 4.2.2 OS available in the device. Moreover, the company states that at the beginning of 2014. An update to the next version will be released.

There are eight design themes to choose from, as well as a couple dozen more background images. On the Sony Xpiria lock screen, there is a link for quick access to the smartphone’s camera, and a whole series of widgets can be placed in the same place. By default, the desktop is presented with five pages, which can be increased to seven. However, they cannot be scrolled in a circle, therefore, having reached the last one, it requires scrolling in the opposite direction.

As the Sony Z1 review revealed, the device has virtually no “junk” applications that you immediately want to delete. The available set of programs is quite successful, this statement especially applies to multimedia programs, including the ubiquitous Walkman, as well as the TrackID application, or better known as Shazam, which can recognize the melody being listened to. Among the useful little things are the NeoReader barcode reader, as well as the Sketch application for creating handwritten notes and drawings using your finger. The presence of the standard Google Play store is complemented by the proprietary Sony Select application, through which you can download a variety of functional and interesting programs that are fully compatible with the device in question.

Features and performance of the Sony Xperia Z1 smartphone

The characteristics embodied in the Sony Xperia Z1 are based on the latest Snapdragon 800 chipset with a frequency of each of the available four Krait cores at 2.2 GHz. At the same time, the Adreno330 coprocessor is provided for graphic operations, which is almost 50% faster than the analogue possessed by the device’s predecessor.

Those wishing to buy a Sony Xperia Z1 will receive 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal memory, of which about 11.7GB is available to the user. The device supports SDXC memory cards with a capacity of up to 64GB. In general, the “hardware” characteristics can be called quite advanced.

On a smartphone Sony Xperia Z1 A non-removable capacious 3000 mAh battery is installed, so if you are not overly involved in games and videos, its power can be enough for a day. At the same time, the efficiency of energy consumption can be increased by enabling the Stamina energy saving mode, which turns off Wi-Fi and data transmission via the cellular network when the screen is off. It should be noted that turning on this mode does not affect operation when the display is active. Also, to save energy, there is “Wi-Fi with geolocation”, thanks to which the smartphone activates the wireless module only when it recognizes a familiar network, without keeping it constantly on. To charge the battery, you can use a special DK31 docking station or the usual microUSB connector.

Smartphone cost and conclusions

Immediately after entering the market, the recommended price for Sony Xperia Z1 was 29,990 rubles. By now, its importance has begun to decline and in large retail chains the device can already be purchased for 27,990 rubles. Gray suppliers offer the device at a cost below 20 thousand.

Pros:

— the materials of the case and design are clearly high-quality and “expensive”;

- amazing camera for a smartphone;

— increased level of moisture resistance;

- excellent performance;

- a lot of useful software.

Minuses:

— screen viewing angles are inferior to other flagships;

— the presence of unimportant ergonomics due to dimensions.

To summarize, it should be noted that the Sony Xperia Z1 is one of the most powerful smartphones among flagships and definitely the best device from the manufacturer. The display has become better, the design has been updated, performance has been significantly increased, and various pleasant little things have appeared.

Sony Z1 video

At the beginning of 2013, Sony released one of its most interesting phones - the Xperia Z. For a long time after its release, it was a worthy competitor to even more expensive competitors, although at that time it was not cheap. It came as a surprise to many when the Sony xperia z1 black was announced in the spring. The manufacturer carried out extensive work, corrected the main errors of the Z, resulting in not just an improved version, but a much higher class one.

Design and equipment Sony Z1

The Xperia Z package pleasantly surprised users with the presence of a docking station and an original headset. The Z1's delivery package turned out to be more meager; it only contains a charger with a current of 1500 mA, a microUSB cable and instructions. The manufacturer took such a step in order to save money so that at the start of sales the smartphone would cost around 30,000 rubles.

The Sony xperia z1 c6903 phone is designed according to the OmniBalance concept. The front and back sides are made of Dragontrail glass, and the rim that runs around the perimeter is made of aluminum. The device looks very expensive and premium. Strictly in black and white colors, but very bold and defiant in purple.

The front side is decorated with a company logo, but unfortunately it is applied to a protective film. Once you take it off, he disappears. Next to it there is a hole for the earpiece, in which an LED indicator of missed events is built in. On the sides of the speaker there is a 2 MP camera, light sensors, and distance sensors. On the right side there is a compartment for placing a micro SIM card, a stylish round power button made of aluminum, a volume rocker and a camera key. All connectors on the side ends are covered with plugs, which ensures absolute tightness of the case and the ability to use the device at a depth of up to 1.5 meters.

There is a 3.5 mm headphone jack on the top panel. It is not afraid of moisture, but after water procedures it is better to wait a little while using the headset.

Below you can see a large grille, under which a microphone and a multimedia speaker are hidden.

On the left side, under the flap, there is a tray for microSD and microUSB, and in the very center there is a magnetic connector for connecting to the docking station.

On the left side of the back cover there is a 20.7 MP main camera lens and a flash. Approximately in the center there is NFC markings indicating the location of the chip, brand logos and another microphone, which is installed symmetrically to the speaker in the upper part of the case. The case is monolithic, so you won’t be able to disassemble it yourself, but if the battery breaks, it can be easily replaced at a service center.

Sony Z1 display

The Sony xperia z1 screen has FullHD resolution and a 5-inch diagonal, and the pixel density is 441 per inch. The proprietary X-Reality for mobile technology is used, which increases image clarity. The smartphone uses a TFT ASV matrix based on TRILUMINOS technology with quantum dots. A similar solution has already been used in the development of televisions and has proven to be very effective. The X-Reality for mobile feature can be activated or disabled in the settings menu; it improves the richness of the image in the gallery and the proprietary video player. The function is useless in third-party applications. The display produces clear colors and natural color rendition, the brightness reserve is sufficient with a large margin. When changing the viewing angle, the image fades slightly, but this is not noticeable in everyday use.

Already at the time of sale, the smartphone is protected on both sides with protective films so that there are no scratches on the surface of the glass. In addition to them, we recommend purchasing a stylish case. It is better to keep branded films intact, because after replacing them the branded logo will disappear.

The body of the Sony Z1 smartphone is protected according to IP55/IP58 standards, which means it can be used for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters. Before diving, make sure all caps are tightly closed.

By the way, the plugs quickly become loose, but this can be easily avoided if you use a docking station for charging. All microphones, as well as speakers, are equipped with protective membranes that prevent moisture and dust from entering the housing. The speaker volume is enough for comfortable listening to music, and you won’t miss an important call, even while on a noisy street.

The speaker does not overlap even if you put the phone on the table. The only thing is that it overlaps a little with your palm when you play games. The Xperia Z1 is assembled with very high quality, and even large frames and indents do not spoil the excellent ergonomics. It fits well in the hand, although initially it seems quite large for a 5-inch display. Despite the weight of 170 g, the phone does not feel heavy. When you pick it up, you realize that you are dealing with a high-quality gadget made from premium materials.

Sony Z1 interface

We conducted the Sony xperia z1 c6903 review on Android 4.4 KitKat, but you can easily update to newer versions over the air. The phone runs on the proprietary Xperia Home shell, which, without exaggeration, can be called the most convenient of all existing shells on Android. It does not take up a lot of built-in memory, looks stylish and contains all the necessary applications from the manufacturer, as well as standard Android.

The user can create and fill up to 7 desktops in his own way or leave only one. You can place application icons and useful widgets on them. Another feature will be the presence of mini-applications that can open on top of others, occupying a small part of the screen. The notification shade has a brightness adjustment bar and access to a variety of widgets and applications. In addition, you can customize it in your own way by removing or adding some elements.

Sony xperia z1 c6903 specifications include 16 GB of internal memory, but only 11.8 GB is available for use. If this volume is not enough for you, you can additionally install a flash drive. The proprietary Stamina mode increases autonomy several times. As standard, the smartphone comes pre-installed with many proprietary programs and those developed by Google. Album is one of the most convenient programs for viewing pictures, which can be scaled up to 8 thumbnails in a row, place photos on a map with geotags, and also synchronize everything with the PlayMemories virtual storage.

Sketch is a proprietary drawing tool that allows you to change color, thickness, background, use an eraser, and much more. PIXLR Express will help you process your photos and create beautiful effects. Smart Connect lets you set the functions your phone performs when you connect a headset or dock. For example, activate an alarm clock or launch a music player. TrackID is a proprietary music recognition tool. Sony Select - catalog of branded programs.

Despite the lack of an infrared port, the device can control the TV using a wireless connection. Walkman is an excellent music player with beautiful visualization, the ability to fine-tune, and load tags from their Network. The ClearAudio+ function will make the sound more interesting, and ClearBass will tighten the low frequencies. There is also an equalizer with fine-tuning capabilities. The sound quality is top notch.

Sony Z1 camera

The main camera of the Sony xperia z1 is a 20.7 MP Exmor RS module equipped with G Lens optics with f/2.0 aperture. The size of each pixel is 1.1 microns, and the size of the matrix itself is 1/2.4. Increasing the resolution while maintaining the same pixel size affects the detail of the images. A larger pixel would capture light better, but the Xperia Z1 currently benefits from a larger aperture. The proprietary camera application has many settings, manual and automatic shooting modes.

The latter differs in that the smartphone automatically selects parameters depending on the shooting conditions. The interface is very easy to use. If you are an inexperienced user, then it is better to shoot in automatic mode, where you cannot independently set the settings that affect the shooting result. When reviewing the Sony xperia z1 in Russian, we used the manual shooting mode. Its advantage is that you can choose the most convenient focusing method, change exposure, adjust ISO and much more. The camera quickly focuses and selects the optimal white balance, resulting in true-to-life colors in your photos. 3x magnification does not affect picture quality. For this, the manufacturer used Clear Image Zoom technology. The camera allows you to get high-quality images under any conditions; without exaggeration, it can be called one of the best on the modern market. The 2-megapixel selfie camera allows you to take good quality pictures in daylight conditions.

If you want to get an original photo, then the manufacturer has provided many effects for this. For example, when shooting AR effects, virtual characters appear in the video finder, as well as objects that form a beautiful background for the photo. You will be able to take pictures against the backdrop of a dinosaur, butterflies, seascapes, gnomes and much more. You can also download new effects for free.

Example photo:

While reviewing the Sony xperia z1 smartphone, we tested the camera capabilities. The maximum shooting resolution is FullHD at 30 frames per second. The manufacturer has provided several shooting modes, including HDR. There is no optical stabilizer; instead, the device uses an electronic one. This technology works much more efficiently than in the Lumia 1020 and other competing models. Electronic stabilization eliminates the effect of shaky hands, reduces the grip angle, and produces smoother footage. Autofocus quickly focuses on the subject, and color rendition is as close to natural as possible.

Sony Z1 performance

Sony xperia z1 technical characteristics allow it to cope with any task, and the price is more than affordable. You can order a smartphone on Aliexpress for a price starting from 11,000 rubles. At the heart of the phone is a high-performance 4-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor operating at a frequency of 2.2 GHz. The powerful processor is complemented by 2 GB of RAM, which ensures multitasking and smooth operation of the interface. The phone runs any games with maximum graphics settings without lag. During the entire testing period, the phone never crashed. When tested in Antutu, the device also showed good results. Another plus is that it does not suffer from throttling. He collected 40,000 parrots in Antutu. The technical characteristics of the Sony z1 are relevant even now.

Autonomy Sony Z1

The Sony xperia z1 battery with a capacity of 3000 mAh is capable of providing excellent battery life for the gadget. It can last up to 2 days with medium-intensive use. When playing video at maximum brightness and all wireless modules running, it lasted 7 hours. This is an excellent result for a device with such powerful hardware. When playing GTA San Andreas at 50% brightness, it lost only 13% in half an hour. At peak load it heats up to 47.5 degrees. The glass heats up quite strongly, but it does not burn or cause any particular discomfort.

Wireless networks work perfectly. The phone receives a signal even through thick walls, quickly connects to satellites and plots a route. There are no complaints about voice communication either.

Bottom line

Sony z1 characteristics and price are chosen optimally, especially since now it costs much less than at the time of release. The manufacturer has created a high-performance smartphone with good cameras, excellent battery life, a user-friendly interface and a stylish body.

Your rating for the smartphone:

The flagship smartphone Sony xperia z1 at one time became a very noticeable new product on the smartphone market, which gained considerable popularity around the world. This device has quite a large number of different advantages and strengths, which makes it a very good purchase and a very convenient device. If you want to know more about the Sony xperia z1 smartphone, the review that you will read next can help you with this.

It should be noted that the scope of delivery for this model is very modest; in most cases, almost all xperia devices have nothing in the standard set except a cable and a power supply. The Sony company primarily explains this policy by saving money; according to the main developers, the user is able to independently purchase all the necessary accessories for a smartphone. That is, you will have to buy a case for Sony xperia z1, headphones and much more yourself.

Many believe that this policy is not entirely correct. The thing is that some users just buy smartphones because they come with a large number of different interesting things. Of course, this is not the main reason, however, for many people this is a very, very pleasant bonus. It should also be noted that xperia has a rather hefty price, but of course the company knows better how to conduct a commercial policy correctly, and besides, we cannot know all the details of the production process in this corporation, perhaps there are reasons for such a modest configuration.

Design

The Sony xperia z1 phone is similar in design to all others and has a number of features that are specific to this model. The first thing that catches your eye is the massiveness of this development; in this parameter it has clearly surpassed its predecessor. Probably the reason for the massiveness of this version was the use of special materials, as well as the special design of the case.

In Sony xperia z1, the ends are made of aluminum, which looks very good and very stylish. This device is very comfortable to hold in your hands, since the corners are not as sharp as in some previous versions.

In addition to the ends, plugs are also made of aluminum. boasts dust and water resistance, and the device can spend as much as half an hour at a depth of 1.5 meters, which is a very good indicator for modern smartphones and many other devices. But this is not its main advantage in this regard; the smartphone is capable of calmly taking photographs under water, as well as shooting video. In order to take pictures underwater, there are special camera shutter keys, however, the touch screen does not work underwater.

As for the color options for the smartphone, there are three of them: white, black and purple. Therefore, everyone can choose the most suitable option for themselves.

The device has a non-separable body; all ports and other control elements are located on a metal frame.

Display

Typically, smartphones from Sony are distinguished by very high-quality displays, this model is no exception and offers its users very good image quality. The screen size is 5 inches, its resolution is 1920x1080 pixels. Despite the fact that the screen can be considered very successful in this model, there are nevertheless some nuances that slightly spoil the impression of it.

One of the main disadvantages of the screen is not the best and most comfortable viewing angles. Indeed, the viewing angles are very small, so even if the screen is slightly tilted, the picture begins to fade, which is not very pleasant. However, the display itself of the Sony xperia z1 compact still has good quality, graininess on it is almost impossible to notice, the pixel density is 440 ppi. It is also worth noting the very good responsiveness of the screen; the Sony xperia z1 display responds to even the most inconspicuous and light touches.

The smartphone allows you to adjust the brightness in both automatic and manual modes. Another plus is support for the special Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2 technology, which gives the picture a more rich look.

Performance

The device uses a quad-core Krait processor with a clock frequency of 1700 MHz. One of the most modern developments in this direction, Adreno 320, is responsible for the graphics. Such good characteristics of the Sony xperia z1 ensure smooth operation of this device. The amount of internal memory is 16 GB, and RAM is 2 GB.

In terms of hardware performance, this device is ahead of many of its competitors and shows some of the best performance at the moment. Moreover, it bypasses even many Samsung devices in this parameter, which is considered one of the leaders in this direction.

Battery

For many modern smartphones, the battery is one of the weakest points. Since in order to support such a large number of functions and capabilities that modern smartphones have, a lot of energy must be spent. In this regard, the Sony xperia z1 is doing quite well. The high-quality Sony xperia z1 battery, whose capacity is 2330 mAh, in addition to working well, also has an energy saving mode called Stamina. Stamina allows you to save energy very well, it does this by closing all background processes. For example, if the smartphone screen turns off, all background processes will automatically stop. In the same case, if the screen turns on, on the contrary, background processes start immediately.

This very progressive approach to energy saving allows you to significantly increase the operating time of the device without recharging, which is an undoubted advantage of this model. If you use the device in reading mode with a brightness of 50%, it can work for about 10 hours. If you use it in HQ video mode and with Wi-Fi turned on, the duration of its operation will be 6 hours, if you play games at maximum settings, the smartphone will last 2-3 hours.

Cameras

The device has two cameras – the main one and the front one. The front camera has a small resolution of 2 megapixels; it is capable of taking pictures with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels.

As for the main camera of the device, it is one of the main features of this smartphone. The main camera uses a BIONZ processor and an Exmor RS CMOS sensor. The processor's tasks include processing photos, reducing noise during shooting, and much more. The resolution of the main camera is 20.7 megapixels, which is a very good indicator for modern smartphones.

The pictures taken with this smartphone are really very good, in some cases almost professional quality. The camera works very well in both sunny and cloudy weather. The camera also has a number of very useful and interesting shooting modes. Among these modes, we can note the augmented reality mode, the essence of which is that during the shooting process, various additional objects will be adjusted to the image. For example, you can add a butterfly to the photo, which will fly behind the person being photographed. In addition to the butterfly, sony xperia z1 c6903 allows you to use many other objects and effects, such as: dinosaur, masquerade, dive and some others.

Software

The Sony xperia z1 compact uses Android version 4.2.2, using the proprietary shell from Sony. There are no complaints about the operation of the interface; all the effects used in it flow as smoothly and beautifully as possible.

The camera launches very quickly and easily directly from the device screen, that is, for this, there is no need to use additional application shortcuts and everything else. Also, a smartphone user has the ability to change desktops, change themes, set wallpaper for the desktop and perform a large number of other various functions.

The video player, which is initially installed on the Sony xperia z1 compact smartphone, can very easily handle most video and audio formats, including the AVI format. However, the MKV format is only capable of playing without sound.

If we draw conclusions about this model from all of the above, we can say that the Sony xperia z1 compact d5503 smartphone has its own special style and minimalist design. In addition, the device boasts very good technical characteristics and good hardware, which makes it a very convenient and easy-to-use device.

A very important factor is the high performance of this model. According to these parameters, the Sony xperia z1 outperforms most of its competitors, and in some respects it demonstrates simply incredible performance. This smartphone is considered a very reliable design, however, if something happens, the Sony xperia z1 can be repaired, most likely, without any problems, since the model uses the most common components, which are not a problem to get.

The disadvantages include not the best viewing angles of the screen, as well as weak equipment. Perhaps the weak equipment is not a minus, since a case for Sony xperia z1 compact can always be bought for a very small amount.

This device is perfect for those people who want to have a powerful device with a good camera and additional features. If you want to know more about the Sony xperia z1, reviews on various sites and online stores can help you, so we recommend that you read them carefully.

Sony xperia z1 smartphone review was last modified: May 4th, 2016 by MaximB

At the beginning of the year, Sony released one of the most interesting smartphones of the first half of the year - the Xperia Z. Throughout 2013, it could not remain competitive, so few were surprised by the autumn announcement of its direct successor - the Xperia Z1. The Japanese have done a great job and they have created not just an improved Z, but a completely different model of a higher class. Let's start exploring!

Technical characteristics of Sony Xperia Z1:

• Network: GSM/GPRS/EDGE (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), WCDMA/HSPA (850/900/1700/1900/2100 MHz), LTE (800/900/1800/2100/2600 MHz)
• Platform (at time of announcement): Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
• Display: capacitive, 5", 1920 x 1080 pixels, 441 ppi, TFT TRILUMINOS, X-Reality for mobile
• Camera: 20.7 MP, f/2.0, 1/2.4”, 1.1 µm, LED flash, autofocus, Full HD video recording, Sony Exmor RS sensor, G Lens optics, SteadyShot electronic stabilizer
• Front camera: 2 MP
• Processor: 4 cores, 2.2 GHz, Snapdragon 800
• RAM: 2 GB
• Internal memory: 16 GB
• Memory card: microSD
• A-GPS and GLONASS
• Bluetooth 4.0
• Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n)
• microUSB 2.0
• 3.5mm jack
• IP55/IP58 protection
• Battery: 3000 mAh
• Talk time: up to 14 hours on 2G networks, up to 15 hours on 3G networks
• Standby time: up to 880 hours on 2G networks, up to 850 hours on 3G networks
• Operating time in audio player mode: up to 110 hours
• Dimensions: 144 x 74 x 8.5 mm
• Weight: 170 g
• Form factor: monoblock with touchscreen
• Type: smartphone
• Announcement date: September 4, 2013

Video review and unboxing

Design, construction and equipment

I liked the official Russian package for Xperia Acro S, Xperia Z, Xperia Z Ultra because it included a docking station. And before, with all the top models, the company invested in high-quality headphones. However, there is nothing to highlight in the Xperia Z1 box - only a microUSB cable, charging (1500 mA) and documentation. Most likely, Sony did this for reasons of economy in order to keep the price at 30 thousand rubles at the start (now the recommended price is 26,990 rubles). Previously, on the contrary, the kit was made as rich as possible so that users would be interested in purchasing PCT devices, and not a dud without a guarantee and additional goodies. Now here are some Z1s from Asia and Europe that can boast a dock...

Z1 is made according to the OmniBalance concept. The front and rear sides are covered with Dragontrail glass, and the perimeter cast rim is made of aluminum. The phone looks premium and strict in black and white, but bold and defiant in purple.

On the front side we see the Sony logo, a speaker slot where an LED strip for notifications is integrated, a 2-megapixel camera, light and distance sensors, and a 5” screen. On the right side there is a sealed compartment with a micro-SIM, an aluminum power button, a volume rocker, a camera button and a hole for a string. The top edge is favored by a “naked” 3.5 mm audio jack. It is not afraid of water, but the manufacturer recommends not using headphones for some time after water procedures. On the bottom side there is a large grille behind which the microphone and speaker are hidden. On the left are compartments with microSD and microUSB, a magnetic connector for charging.

On the back side, the company placed a 20.7-megapixel camera with a flash, an NFC tag indicating the location of the chip, logos, and an additional microphone, which is located in the slot symmetrically to the speaker at the top. The case is not intended for disassembly at home, but if the battery (capacity is 3000 mAh) fails, the service center will be able to replace it.

The 5" diagonal screen has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which provides a pixel density of 441 ppi. From the official specifications, it follows that the TFT TRILUMINOS panel with X-Reality for mobile technology is used. Apparently, the Xperia Z1 uses a TFT ASV matrix, and from TRILUMINOS development with quantum dots, which has found its application in TVs, only the marketing name remains. The X-Reality for mobile function can be turned on and off, it is responsible for the richness of the image only in the branded gallery and video player when viewing photos and videos (in third-party applications, in it doesn’t work in games or on desktops). In my opinion, it’s better without it, since with it everything becomes too contrasty and, for example, flower petals can merge into a single mess. The Z1’s screen has high brightness, good readability in the sun. Pleasant color reproduction, but it, like the Z display, fades even with small deviations. If you do not show anything from the screen to anyone, then the corners most likely will not bother you. And besides the corners, there is nothing to complain about the panel.

But some still can because of the films. They are applied to both glasses and, although they are of very high quality and strong, they will still become unusable quite quickly if you do not use the case at the same time. They are not easy to remove, and the Sony logo will come off along with the front one. There are several options - “kill it”, or purchase additional films at the same time as the phone, applying them over the factory ones, so that later, as scratches appear, replace them with others, keeping the branded ones intact.

The case is protected according to IP55/IP58 standards, that is, it can withstand half-hour immersions in fresh water to a depth of 1.5 m. Before plunging into water, you must make sure that all compartments are tightly closed. Such protection can hardly be called unnecessary, but the constant opening of the plugs is annoying and is fraught with loosening in the future. Fortunately, in the Z1 the audio connector has become “hydrophobic”, and to charge it you just need to use the DK31 magnetic docking station or an adapter from microUSB to a proprietary connector with a magnetic mount.

The first accessory is officially sold for 1.2 thousand rubles, and the second, much more versatile, can be easily purchased on eBay for about 150 rubles. I recommend spending a little, I guarantee convenience. Microphones and speakers have protective membranes that protect the insides from moisture and dust, and the engineers must be given credit for the fact that their use did not affect the quality of sound transmission. Of course, the main speaker could be a little louder, but the current level (it is one and a half times louder than Z) is more than enough - you won’t miss calls, and the design makes it impossible to block the sound source.

The Xperia Z1 has large frames and indents, but good ergonomics and high-quality assembly cannot be taken away from it. In the photographs, the smartphone seems large for 5”, although it is convenient to use. All buttons are placed in the right places, the body is rounded as it should. The weight on paper is impressive (170 g), and in the hand the phone does not feel like some kind of heavy plastic rattle, unlike large Chinese products (and some from A-brands). You take the Xperia Z1 in your hands and feel that this is a thing with a capital “T” made of quality materials with an excellent fit of parts that gives a pleasant feeling of heaviness. Creaks and backlashes are out of the question.

Software

The smartphone went on sale running Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, was updated to 4.3 Jelly Bean in December, and will be updated to 4.4 KitKat during the first quarter. I spoke in detail about the innovations that came with the update to the current version in a separate review using the Xperia Z Ultra as an example. I recommend reading this material.

In my opinion, Xperia Home is one of the best skins for Android. It is moderately strict, customizable (themes appeared with 4.3), not heavy and not spoiled by useless gadgets that no one will ever use, unlike Optimus from LG and TouchWiz and Samsung.

The user can place up to seven desktops with the option of leaving only one. Folders, widgets, and links to applications are installed on them. The lock screen is unremarkable, except, perhaps, for the animation of the blinds, and the notification shade contains shortcut keys to wireless modules, sound, screen, etc. (they are selected in the settings). Pressing the right virtual key brings up a list of open programs with a menu of mini-applications. These are programs that can work in a window on top of the main tasks. For example, a calculator, notes, voice recorder, timer. Additional ones are in the Market (their number is close to a hundred), but if you don’t find anything suitable, you can turn any widget into a mini-application. On a 5” diagonal there is almost no need for them. On the Xperia Z Ultra and Xperia Tablet Z, such applications are much more appropriate.

I won’t describe the settings in detail; everything is clearly visible in the screenshots. Let me note a few points. Firstly, out of 16 GB, the user is allocated 11.8 GB, and there is no function for installing applications on microSD, but there is a utility that helps, if there is not enough space, to transfer multimedia content to the card. You can get around this annoying limitation by using root. Secondly, I recommend activating the Stamina mode in “Power Supply”, placing in exceptions applications from which it is important to receive updates promptly (WhatsApp, VKontakte...). Third, customize the keyboard to your liking by enabling swipe typing. Fourthly, the default phone screen is not used very rationally due to the large font, so set the display settings to a small size, it will be more convenient.

There are a lot of programs preinstalled, but Sony focuses on software from Google and proprietary services. Some things can be deleted without dancing with a tambourine: Evernote, File Commander, McAfee Security, NeoReader, OfficeSuite, Pixlr Express, TrackID, TV SideView, Xperia Privelege.

“Album” is one of the best image viewers with the ability to pinch up to eight thumbnails in a row, integration with PlayMemories storage, and placement of geotagged photos on a map and globe.

Sketch is a good drawing program. Among the available tools: changing the color, thickness and type of tip, eraser, background, text, ready-made objects, importing pictures.

“Movies” is a video player that downloads movie data from the database.

PIXLR Express helps you process your photos with effects, templates, stickers, and more.

Smart Connect selects programs that are activated when paired with accessories. We connected the docking station - the alarm clock and clock started, and the silent mode turned on. We connected the headphones and the music player opened. Comfortable.

TrackID is a good service for identifying music.

Sony Select is a proprietary program catalog. This is not a store in the usual sense of the word, since it redirects the user to the Play Market.

There is no IR port in the Xperia Z1, but you can control your TV in TV SideView via a wireless connection.

Walkman is a high-quality audio player with visualization, loading tags from the Internet, and various sound effects. Depending on your headset, you may find the options ClearAudio+ (“sterilizes” the sound), ClearBass (low-frequency boost), and a five-band equalizer with presets interesting. The external speaker volume is affected by Clear Phase and xLOUD, experiment with them and genres when testing the ringtone. The Sennheiser Momentum headphones sound good and have a small volume reserve. I would put the Xperia Z1 in this regard on the level of the LG G2 and Samsung Galaxy S4, but a couple of steps below the Meizu MX3 and iPhone 5S.

I advise fans of goodies to check out from time to time the Xperia Lounge, where the company organizes sweepstakes and announces discounts, and Xperia Privilege, where exclusive offers are placed for owners of top-end devices. Now they are distributing six films, for example.

Camera

In previous flagships, Sony used cameras with a resolution of 13 megapixels and an Exmor RS sensor, and the Xperia Z1 got a new 20.7-megapixel Exmor RS module with G Lens optics with f/2.0 aperture. The matrix size is 1/2.4”, which is comparable to the sensor of the Sony WX300 digital point-and-shoot camera. With a resolution of 20.7 megapixels, the size of each pixel is 1.1 microns, which in turn is not far from 1.13 microns in the 13-megapixel Xperia Z, LG G2 and other smartphones with such a matrix (thousands of them!). Increasing the resolution while maintaining the pixel size, as in the case of the Nokia Lumia 1020/Lumia 1520 (despite the 41 and 20 MP sensors, their pixels are also approximately 1.1 microns), is reflected in the detail and is noticeable when zooming in on the frame. The HTC One with 2 microns, the iPhone 5S with 1.5 microns and the LG Nexus 5 with Meizu MX3, where the size is 1.4 microns, we can talk about greater light capture by each pixel. But in the case of the Xperia Z1, this moment is played out by a large aperture.

There are a lot of settings in the camera application and it is suitable both for those who do not like to bother with modes at all, and for those who like to twist the controls. The interface is convenient and clear. For inexperienced users, it makes sense to turn on the best auto-tuning mode, where you can’t change anything at all that could affect the final result. People who are at least a little knowledgeable about photography should use the manual mode with the ability to change exposure, focus mode, ISO and other things. The camera produces pleasant bokeh, aims quickly and accurately, most often correctly guesses the white balance and real colors, and the high resolution makes it possible to implement 3x lossless Clear Image Zoom using the same algorithm as the Lumia line. In my opinion, the Xperia Z1's camera is easily one of the three best on the market, and in purely technical specifications it is second only to the Lumia 1020.

Tired of taking regular photos? Then photo applications are at your service, among which AR effects stands out, that is, shooting with augmented reality. Virtual objects and characters appear in the viewfinder - butterflies, gnomes with houses, a dinosaur, masks on people’s faces, etc. I can assure you that your Xperia will definitely be the center of attention at the party. This function can please people of absolutely all ages, as I personally saw during the New Year holidays.

The video is recorded in maximum Full HD resolution at 30 fps. There are also several modes, including HDR. For some reason, Sony decided not to use an optical stabilizer, which has already found use in the Lumia 1020, 1520, LG G2, HTC One, but to rely on an electronic one, called here SteadyShot. It must be said that the company was right and its EIS technology turned out to be even more effective than OIS, which can be seen in comparison with the Lumia 1020. With SteadyShot, all the shaking goes out of the frame, and the capture angle decreases, but the smooth video sequence seems to be on rails and is worth it. Autofocus is adjusted quickly, color rendition is close to real, colors are not distorted for the sake of a spectacular picture.

Information about the make, model, and alternative names of the specific device, if available.

Design

Information about the dimensions and weight of the device, presented in different units of measurement. Materials used, colors offered, certificates.

SIM card

The SIM card is used in mobile devices to store data that certifies the authenticity of mobile service subscribers.

Mobile networks

A mobile network is a radio system that allows multiple mobile devices to communicate with each other.

Mobile communication technologies and data transfer speeds

Communication between devices on mobile networks is carried out using technologies that provide different data transfer rates.

Operating system

An operating system is a system software that manages and coordinates the operation of hardware components in a device.

SoC (System on Chip)

A system on a chip (SoC) includes all the most important hardware components of a mobile device on one chip.

Built-in memory

Each mobile device has built-in (non-removable) memory with a fixed capacity.

Memory cards

Memory cards are used in mobile devices to increase the storage capacity for storing data.

Screen

The screen of a mobile device is characterized by its technology, resolution, pixel density, diagonal length, color depth, etc.

Sensors

Different sensors perform different quantitative measurements and convert physical indicators into signals that a mobile device can recognize.

Main camera

The main camera of a mobile device is usually located on the back of the body and is used for taking photos and videos.

Additional camera

Additional cameras are usually mounted above the device screen and are used mainly for video conversations, gesture recognition, etc.

Audio

Information about the type of speakers and audio technologies supported by the device.

Radio

The radio of the mobile device is a built-in FM receiver.

Location determination

Information about the navigation and location technologies supported by your device.

WiFi

Wi-Fi is a technology that provides wireless communication for transmitting data over close distances between various devices.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a standard for secure wireless data transfer between various devices of different types over short distances.

USB

USB (Universal Serial Bus) is an industry standard that allows different electronic devices to exchange data.

HDMI

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a digital audio/video interface that replaces older analog audio/video standards.

Headphone jack

This is an audio connector, also called an audio jack. The most widely used standard in mobile devices is the 3.5mm headphone jack.

Connecting devices

Information about other important connection technologies supported by your device.

Browser

A web browser is a software application for accessing and viewing information on the Internet.

Audio file formats/codecs

Mobile devices support different audio file formats and codecs, which respectively store and encode/decode digital audio data.

Video file formats/codecs

Mobile devices support different video file formats and codecs, which respectively store and encode/decode digital video data.

Battery

Mobile device batteries differ from each other in their capacity and technology. They provide the electrical charge necessary for their functioning.