While we all drool over the latest and greatest flagship devices, some of us have more down-to-earth, albeit shallower pockets. Yes, the Xperia XZs is fantastic. But what if, we’re on a tighter budget? Here’s where the Xperia XA1 comes in.
The Xperia XA1 builds upon the foundation set by the XA from last year. It features a much-loved borderless design, with an edge-to-edge screen. Not only that, the mid-ranger also boasts a flagship-level camera and powerful octa-core processor.
The borderless design houses an edge-to-edge 5-inch HD screen, with a curvature that makes the phone fit comfortably in the hand.
The Xperia range has always had a keen focus in photography and videography. Sony adopts the 23MP 1 /2.3-inch Exmor RS mobile sensor from previous year’s flagship, the Xperia Z5. It’s complemented by a fast 24mm f/2.0 lens and superfast 0.6s shutter. Autofocus is fast and accurate thanks to Hybrid Auofocus, and is kept steady with Sony’s famed EIS (electronic image stabilisation) – SteadyShot.
Moving on, under the hood, the XA1 features the power-efficient MediaTek Helio P20 octa-core processor. It boasts 3GB of RAM and 32GB of onboard storage, with support for microSD expansion (up to 256GB).
Like the XZs, the XA1 comes with Qnovo Adaptive Charging technology that monitors the battery’s health, and adjusts charging current for optimal charging. This avoids damange and maximizes the lifespan of the battery, while Stamina Mode keeps the XA1 running longer.
Sony has also integrated Xperia Actions to the latest Xperia range. These actions learn your usage patterns to suggest customizable settings and personalized recommendations.
It runs a stock-looking UI, based on Android N.
Pricing and availability
The Xperia XA1 is open for pre-order from 29 March till 9 April 2017. It retails for just MYR1,199 and can be purchased at Sony Stores, Sony Mobile Stores, Sony Centres and authorized dealers.
Online pre-orders are exclusive to 11street. Pre-order and receive a DK60 Charging Dock, transparent silicon case, and tempered glass screen protector worth MYR268.
The Xperia XA1 comes in White, Black, Pink and Gold.
