Sony has stepped back into the smartphone arena with the new Xperia 10 VII, showcasing a revamped design that seems to draw inspiration from Google’s Pixel series. The horizontal rear camera module, reminiscent of the Pixel flagships, is a notable shift in Sony’s design language. While some may view this as a lack of originality, I see it as a smart move to align with successful design trends.
The Xperia 10 VII’s design is complemented by a striking Turquoise finish, although the Charcoal and White versions might not be as visually appealing with their plastic backs. However, the price point reflects these material choices, making it an affordable option at £399 compared to the higher-end Pixel models. Despite not being available in the US, the Xperia 10 VII competes well in the UK’s mid-range market against brands like Xiaomi and OnePlus.
What sets the Xperia 10 VII apart are its unique features. Sony continues to avoid notches, opting for thicker bezels that house dual front-facing speakers and an 8MP selfie camera. The 6.1-inch OLED display now boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a more immersive viewing experience. Camera improvements include a 50MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide, along with a dedicated camera button for easier photo capturing.
Sony’s decision to retain the 3.5mm headphone jack is a nod to user convenience, offering flexibility for wired headphone users. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chip, the Xperia 10 VII promises decent performance suitable for everyday use. The 5000mAh battery aims to deliver up to two days of usage, although charging speeds remain undisclosed.
Running on Android 15 at launch, the Xperia 10 VII guarantees four major OS updates and six years of security patches, aligning it with industry standards. Available for pre-order on the Sony website, this mid-range smartphone presents a compelling option with its blend of design, features, and affordability. Stay tuned for our detailed review to see how the Xperia 10 VII fares in real-world scenarios.