Sony Mobile launched its new Z3 series of smartphones and tablet recently at IFA 2014 Berlin – the flagship Xperia Z3, Xperia Z3 Compact and the Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact.
The Xperia Z3 quickly replaces the six-month old Xperia Z2, which for the past half a year, has been Sony’s best and in my opinion, one of the best Android smartphones of 2014.
The Sony Xperia Z3 continues the design language that you’ve seen on its predecessor with a premium aluminium and glass design. It’s been slimmed down to 7.3mm and lightened to 152g though, as compared to 8.2mm and 163g respectively on the Xperia Z2.
You’ll notice the new Z3 being slightly rounder too. The new device will come in new colour variants – black, whitte, copper and silver green.
The flagship Xperia phones have always boasted dust- and water-resistant capabilities, and the Z3 is no different. The Z3 is in compliance with IP65 and IP68, where it can be kept under 1.5m of fresh water for up to 30 minutes.
The new Z3 has the same 5.2-inch Full HD 1080p TRILUMINOUS display with improved brightness for better visibility in direct sunlight.
In terms of camera optics, the Z3 retains the 20.7MP rear-facing camera with single LED flash, but has a new 25mm wide-angle lens and higher ISO of 12800.
Two outstanding feature additions in the new Remote Play feature that lets PS4 owners play games on the Z3, much like they can on a PS Vita. You can play your favourite games with your DUALSHOCK4 controller. Neat.
The other killer feature is High-Res audio, something Sony has been touting and something we’ve recently seen and experienced. The Z3 supports DSD playback and active noise-cancelling capabilities which will appeal to audiophiles.
The big 3100mAh battery is claimed to last for two days.
It’s looking great for the Xperia Z3 based on early impressions. Look out for some exclusive hands-on as we touch and feel the new Z3 range at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore later today.
Image credit: Sony Mobile
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