Sony’s brand-new Xperia XZ1, XA1 get launch dates, pricing for SA

Sony has just announced the Xperia XZ1, XZ1 Compact and XA1 at IFA 2017. And it seems like the XZ1 and XZ1 Compact are simply smaller versions of the XZ Premium (review).

The two phones feature the same Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB of RAM, side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP68 resistance and 19MP main camera as the XZ Premium. In fact, the phones are also capable of 960fps super slow-motion video recording.

The XZ1 packs a 5.2-inch full HD, HDR-capable screen while the XZ1 Compact delivers a 4.6-inch 720p display. In the battery department, you’re looking at a 2700mAh battery for both handsets, despite the XZ1 being physically larger. Strange.

But Sony is also touting an odd 3D scanner feature, allowing users to scan objects or people into their phone. The models can be 3D-printed as well, Sony claims. It’s nothing new though, as the Seene app previously offered this functionality. The two phones will also ship with Android 8.0 Oreo, however.

The Xperia XZ1 will come in at a cheaper price than the XZ Premium, while keeping super slow-mo intact

Unfortunately, the XZ1 Compact isn’t listed for release by Sony Mobile South Africa. But the company has confirmed that the newly announced XA1 is coming to the country.

A mid-range phone, the XA1 delivers a Helio P20 chipset, 3GB of RAM, 32GB of expandable storage, a 2300mAh battery and a 5-inch 720p display. But the phone also stands out thanks to a 23MP f/2.0 main camera and an 8MP selfie shooter.

The Xperia XZ1 will be available in South Africa from 1 October 2017 “at a recommended retail price of R10 999 at selected operators nationwide”, Sony Mobile SA wrote in an emailed statement.

The Xperia XA1 “will be available locally from 1 October 2017 at a recommended retail price of R3999”.