Sony recently pulled the curtains back on its Xperia 5 V mobile device, featuring top-notch capabilities but with one less camera and a somewhat reduced price tag compared to its predecessor. Sony is also throwing in the promise of an “unmatched audio-visual experience” thanks to the HDR-enabled display, revamped speakers, and more— all this while shaving a bit off the cost in comparison to the previous Xperia 5 IV model.
When it comes to Sony smartphones, it’s usually all about the camera capabilities. Despite having one less camera, the Xperia 5 V is no slouch. Also known colloquially as “five five,” the device packs the same lightning-fast 52-megapixel Exmor T BSI Type 1/1.35-inch stacked sensor found in the Xperia 1 V. This means it excels in low-light conditions. Sony has also given a boost to its AI-driven “bokeh mode,” aiming to produce photos that give even interchangeable lens cameras a run for their money.
Pictured above by Sam Benard for Sony, the new model features just two rear cameras: a 48-megapixel Exmor T and a 12-megapixel 16mm ultrawide lens. This is a step down from the trio of cameras in the Xperia 5 IV. However, the primary sensor outclasses its predecessor’s 12-megapixel telephoto camera in resolution and provides dynamic focal length switching between 24mm and 48mm (equivalent to around 48mm and 96mm in 35mm terms), ensuring an approximate 2X optical (lossless) zoom with crisper images.
The device hasn’t cut corners in the video department either. Users can record 4K videos at a zippy 120fps in HDR and enjoy both optical and 5-axis gyro-enhanced electronic stabilization for that butter-smooth footage. It also flaunts features like HDR recording, eye-tracking technology, “Creative Look” color schemes, and a spanking new Video Creator app that compiles a finalized video based on your selected shots and background music. For the podcasters and audiophiles out there, the phone includes a specialized voice-recording microphone that zeroes in on your voice, even amidst background noise.
Designed to double as an entertainment hub, the Xperia 5 V sports a 6.1-inch OLED HD+ (1,080 x 2,520) display, identical to its predecessor’s specs. For your binge-watching pleasures, it’s equipped with Sony’s TV Bravia X1 mobile image quality engine and a fresh off-the-oven front stage speaker system, purported to deliver “earth-shattering bass” sans the need for additional speakers. Add a dash of shade towards Apple’s iPhone 14: Sony assures that the 5,000mAh battery can last more than a full day on a single charge and sustain at least 80% of its capacity even after three years of use.
When it comes to gaming, this smartphone doesn’t pull any punches. Powered by the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen2 chip, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an expanded heat diffusion sheet, it’s available in 8GB or 12GB RAM options, plus 128GB of expandable storage. On top of that, the game enhancer adds nifty tools like an audio equalizer, voice chat microphone, and screen recording capabilities.
As for the financial blow to your wallet, despite a minor price reduction in Europe, the Xperia 5 V still has a premium price tag, retailing for £849 / €999 in the UK and Europe and set to hit the market in “late September.” Although there’s no word yet on the U.S. pricing or availability, if the Xperia 5 IV’s initial $1,000 price tag is anything to go by, we can expect the new model to be fairly expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sony Xperia 5 V
What is the Sony Xperia 5 V’s standout feature?
The standout feature of the Sony Xperia 5 V is its high-end 52-megapixel Exmor T backside illuminated sensor. This sensor is especially adept at capturing high-quality images in low-light conditions and offers incredibly fast performance.
Does the Sony Xperia 5 V have multiple cameras?
Yes, the Sony Xperia 5 V comes with two rear cameras: a 48-megapixel Exmor T sensor and a 12-megapixel 16mm ultrawide sensor. However, it does lack the third camera that its predecessor, the Xperia 5 IV, featured.
How does the Sony Xperia 5 V perform in terms of video capabilities?
The Xperia 5 V allows you to shoot 4K video at up to 120fps in HDR. It also includes optical and 5-axis gyro-enhanced electronic image stabilization features for smoother video recording. Additional video-related perks include eye-tracking and a new Video Creator app.
What audio features does the Sony Xperia 5 V offer?
For audio enthusiasts, the phone comes with a specialized voice-recording microphone that’s designed to capture your voice clearly, even in noisy environments. It also promises an “unmatched audio-visual experience” thanks to its revamped speakers.
Is the Sony Xperia 5 V suitable for gaming?
Absolutely. The Sony Xperia 5 V is equipped with a flagship-level Snapdragon 8 Gen2 processor and a 120Hz display refresh rate, making it highly capable for gaming. It also includes a game enhancer that offers additional features like an audio equalizer and screen recording.
How is the Sony Xperia 5 V’s battery life?
The phone comes with a 5,000mAh battery that Sony claims can last for over 24 hours on a single charge. Even after three years of use, the battery is expected to maintain at least 80% of its capacity.
What is the price and availability of the Sony Xperia 5 V?
The phone is set to retail for £849 / €999 in the UK and Europe, with availability in “late September.” There has been no announcement about U.S. pricing or availability yet.
Does the Sony Xperia 5 V have any features targeted at content creators?
Yes, aside from its robust camera and video capabilities, the phone offers a new Video Creator app that automatically compiles a finalized video based on your selected shots and music. This is particularly handy for content creators looking to streamline their workflow.
Is the phone’s display suitable for watching movies?
Definitely. The Xperia 5 V features a 6.1-inch OLED HD+ display and comes with Sony’s TV Bravia X1 mobile image quality engine. It also has a new front-stage speaker system that delivers powerful bass, making it excellent for media consumption.
How does the Sony Xperia 5 V compare to its predecessor, the Xperia 5 IV?
The Xperia 5 V offers several improvements over its predecessor, including a more advanced main camera sensor, improved speakers, and enhanced video and audio creation features. It achieves all this while also coming in at a slightly lower price point.
More about Sony Xperia 5 V
- Sony Xperia 5 V Official Announcement
- In-depth Review of Sony Xperia 5 V’s Camera Features
- Comparison between Sony Xperia 5 V and Xperia 5 IV
- Gaming Performance of Sony Xperia 5 V
- Battery Life Tests for Sony Xperia 5 V
- How Sony Xperia 5 V Stacks Up Against Apple’s iPhone 14
- Sony Xperia 5 V UK and Europe Pricing and Availability
- Video Creator App on Sony Xperia 5 V: A Closer Look
- Understanding the Snapdragon 8 Gen2 Processor in Sony Xperia 5 V
- Sony Xperia 5 V User Reviews and Testimonials
10 comments
24-hour battery life sounds like a dream for parents. Trust me, you dont get to charge often with kids around.
Super stoked about the Bravia engine in it. Imagine watching Netflix on that display, pure bliss!
When’s it coming to the U.S? They always make us wait. Not cool Sony, not cool.
£849 / €999 isn’t cheap, you know. But considering the specs, kinda makes sense. Still gonna wait for a price drop tho.
80% battery capacity after three years? Now that’s what I call sustainable tech.
120Hz refresh rate and Snapdragon 8 Gen2? this phone is like a gaming console that fits in your pocket, lol.
Only two cameras? Guess quality over quantity, but still missing the third one from the last model.
Revamped speakers and a special mic for voice recording? Sony’s going all out for creators, and I’m here for it!
Whoa, 52 megapixels? Thats a camera beast right there. Finally, Sony stepping up the game, huh.
Xperia 5 V or iPhone 14? Man, the decisions we have to make these days. #FirstWorldProblems.