Sony's new XZ2 and XZ2 Compact


Sony ... what can we say about Sony?  They used to have a fantastic lineup.  And you know what, they still do, it's just that we don't' hear much about them anymore.

Hopefully, that's going to be changing with this new line up, the Xperia XZ2.  One of the neat things listed here (and see the press releases below) is that they're announcing with Bell the new Gigabit LTE speeds and the Sony XZ2 will be one of the first phones capable of that in Canada.

Let's talk specs about this new line up, the XZ2 and it's 'Compact' variant.  Again, you can go and look over our database page to see the side by side comparison of it to other flagships.

Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact

  • 5.0" 2160x1080
  • Snapdragon 845
  • 4GB RAM
  • 64GB storage + microSD
  • 19MP (1/2.3", 1.22µm, f/2.0)
    • 960fps slow mo
    • 4K HDR video!
  • 5MP (1/5", f/2.2)
  • 2870mAh
  • IP65/68


Sony Xperia XZ2

  • Snapdragon 845
  • 4GB RAM
  • 64GB storage + microSD
  • 19MP (1/2.3", 1.22µm, f/2.0)
    • 960fps slow mo
    • 4K HDR video!
  • 5MP (1/5", f/2.2)
  • 3180mAh
    • Qi capable

Wow, that's cool, I think that's the first Sony with Qi.  And what I really like about Sony's lineups is that whether you want the bigger or the smaller, the specs are identical to each other.

No saying "well that's too big for me, but I'm going to lose out on...".  That being said, the XZ2 does come with Qi where the compact doesn't.

Pricing and availability coming soon.

Sony’s new flagship Xperia™ range takes a bold step forward, optimizing smartphone entertainment experiences while delivering a stunningly revamped design

• Xperia XZ2 is the most immersive entertainment device to captivate your senses with extended 5.7” HDR Full HD+ display, powerful stereo speakers, plus the brand new Sony Dynamic Vibration System that brings your content to life. Motion Eye™ camera now has world’s first 4K HDR movie recording in a smartphonei and Full HD 960FPS Super slow-motion recording 
• The world’s most compact 5” 
smartphoneii, Xperia XZ2 Compact offers premium performance with extended 5” HDR Full HD+ display, the latest Motion Eye™ camera experience, and Sony’s advanced AV technologies to maximize your entertainment in the palm of your hand 
• Both smartphones feature the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 845 Mobile Platform designed to deliver superior experiences and performance with Gigabit LTE download speeds to satisfy the most demanding technology enthusiasts 
• Brand new dual camera technology innovation with ultra-high sensitivity displayed at MWC 

MWC, February 26, 2018 – Marking a bold step forward in the Xperia smartphone series, Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today announced two new smartphones, Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact, to headline its flagship range. Introducing immersive innovations for optimizing mobile entertainment experiences and creativity, both models deliver huge advancements in camera, display, and audio technology as well as a strikingly sleek and rounded design. 

“If entertainment is your priority, then our new Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact are your smartphones,” said Hideyuki Furumi, Executive Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing, Sony Mobile Communications, “From the world-class technology on the inside to the new sleek, sophisticated design, these smartphones are everything you need and more. We have pushed Sony’s boundaries even further with our new products for movie recording, viewing, and music listening – offering entertainment to the extreme.” 

The Power to Immerse You 
Ushering in a new era in smartphone design, Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact feature an all-new “ambient flow” approach that leverages Xperia’s renowned IP68 water-resistant seamless glass look and evolves it with premium materials (such as Corning’s durable 3D Gorilla Glass 5), so the dynamic curves and arches flow naturally and emphasize both style and functionalism. Xperia XZ2 Compact also features an anti-scratch hard coated polycarbonate back panel with frosted glasslike finishing and an anti-twist and bend aluminum frame. 

The advanced design houses Sony’s stunning 18:9iii aspect ratio Full HD+ HDR display (5.7-inch on Xperia XZ2 and 5-inch on Xperia XZ2 Compact), which produces crisp, clear images and videos. Both smartphones are also equipped with the Advanced X-Reality engine to optimize your viewing experience by upconverting any standard dynamic range (SDR) downloaded or streaming videos to HDR-quality viewing experience. 

As for audio, Sony continues to make strides in its stereo S-Force Front Surround Sound speakers, achieving clear and more dynamic sound by expanding both the low and high range frequency response and optimizing the high precision signal processing (making these devices 20 percent louder than their predecessors). Xperia XZ2 also introduces the Sony Dynamic Vibration System, a combination of Sony’s unique sound analysis technology that generates optimized vibration patterns and Sony’s unique low frequency actuator that creates a synchronized visual-sound vibration that allows you to feel what you see and hear. The Sony Dynamic Vibration System will stimulate your senses to deliver more immersive music, video, and gaming experiences. 

High quality audio is also provided using Sony’s audio expertize with the truly authentic sound of Hi-Resolution Audioiv together with DSEE HX technology for upscaling. Quality is guaranteed when connecting to wireless speakers or headphones thanks to the enhanced Bluetooth technology LDAC, which offers near High-Resolution Audiov

Extreme Video and Photo Capabilities 
As with the acclaimed Xperia XZ1 and Xperia XZ1 Compact models, Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact are equipped with Sony’s 19MP Motion Eye™ camera system and a 1GB memory-stacked camera sensor, which was the world’s first system to deliver 960fps Super Slow-Motion video capture in a smartphone. The camera system has been upgraded to where it can now record Super Slow-Motion in either 1080p Full HD or HD mode. And for the first time ever, the camera on the Xperia XZ2 and XZ2 Compact captures video in spectacular 4K HDR, which allows for more contrast, colour, and detail. 

For a truly unique and exciting way to capture memories, both smartphones feature the 3D Creator application with even greater flexibility for 3D scanning. Not only can you create 3D scans of objects or friend’s faces in less than a minute using the main camera, but you can also create 3D scans of yourself using the front camera – bringing your selfie to life in 3D and giving you endless opportunities in the 3D avatar world. Post-processing is now available to achieve even greater quality of 3D scans. Plus, once you’ve finished your 3D scan or selfie, you can now post directly to your Facebook timeline within 3D Creator. 

Ultimate Performance to the Extreme 
Powered by the cutting-edge Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 845 Mobile Platform with X20 LTE, Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact will provide immersive user experiences at lightning-fast connection speeds (for up to 30% faster processing and graphics performance compared to their predecessors), so users can enjoy a modern lifestyle while working or having fun. For example, you can access an episode of a TV series in just 20 secondsvi with super-fast downloading. 

With all the capacity for speed and performance, you’ll want assurance that your battery won’t let you down. Xperia XZ2 features a large 3180mAh battery and the most power efficient control ever thanks to its 845 Mobile Platform (while Xperia XZ2 Compact comes equipped with a 2870 mAh battery). Xperia’s useful battery features are also included, such as Smart Stamina and STAMINA mode, plus Battery Carevii and Qnovo Adaptive Charging technology, which help the battery stay healthy and deliver a longer battery lifespan. For effortless charging you can also use the wireless charging dock (WCH20viii), and other compatible Qi chargers, by simply placing your Xperia XZ2 or Xperia XZ2 Compact on the dock to power up without the need to plug in. 

Accessories 
A range of supporting accessories will be available, including Style Cover Touch and Style Cover Stand in corresponding colours for both models. Also available are charging accessories, Wireless Charging Dock (WCH20) for fast effortless charging and Quick Charger UCH12W, which provides hours of battery time by plugging in for just a few minutes. The new 2-way Style USB Audio & Bluetooth® Headset (SBH90C) allows you to enjoy music and talk wirelessly in high quality as well as via a wired USB Type-C™ Cable option that offers Hi-Res Audio with direct USB digital output. It will also charge from your Xperia device while you’re listening, so you can switch easily from wireless to wired if your battery is running low. The Open-ear Stereo Headset (STH40D) offers lightweight and comfortable dual listening, and Xperia Ear Duo utilizes Sony’s acoustics leadership to deliver wireless “open-ear” stereo headphones, so you can listen to music, access information, and communicate while simultaneously hearing sounds from the world around you. A USB Type-C™ 2-in-1 Cable (EC270) is also available for enjoying audio with non-Bluetooth headphones and simultaneously charging your phone. Please check with local operators and retailers for availability details. 

Availability 
Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact will be available late Spring 2018 and will ship with Android™ 8.0 Oreo. Xperia XZ2 comes in four different finishes that offer a beautiful reflection and shine from every angle thanks to the beautiful glass and flow of light, available in Liquid Silver, Liquid Black, Deep Green, and Ash Pink. Xperia XZ2 Compact is available in four beautiful colours with a smooth frosted finish, White Silver, Black, Moss Green, and Coral Pink. Both smartphones are certified IP68ix to withstand splashes and spills, so you don’t have to think twice about answering your phone in the rain. Included in the box is a MH750 headset, QuickCharger 3.0, and USB Type-C adaptor. 

Additionally, Xperia XZ2 Compact is the first device in the XZ series to be Verizoncertified and also operable with GSM compatible (i.e. AT&T, T-Mobile) SIM cards. 

Camera technology innovation preview 
At Sony, we know how important a sophisticated camera is in a smartphone, so we have continued to push the boundaries of what is possible. At MWC, our new ultrahigh sensitivity camera technology which has the power to see the unseen – including images in extreme low light – will be showcased. With a newly developed dual camera and Sony's newly developed fusion image signal processor that makes real-time processing possible, this technology allows image capture in extremely dark conditions thanks to its unprecedented ISO sensitivity 51200 for photos and ISO 12800 for video, which is currently only possible with inter-changeable lens cameras. Ultra-high sensitivity will allow users to take brighter images with less noise and less blur. It’s a technology innovation to spark the desire appetite of camera enthusiasts, coming soon to Xperia.

footnotes
i *Xperia XZ2 captures and stores 4K HDR video with a colour depth of 10-bit in HLG format. Verified against the published video specifications of over 11,800 smartphones by Strategy Analytics’ SpecTRAX Service. Correct as of 22nd December 2017. For more information on Strategy Analytics' results go to: www.sonymobile.com/testresults/ 
ii *with a footprint of 135 x 65mm Xperia XZ2 Compact is the most compact 5-inch smartphone. Verified against the published specifications of over 2600 smartphones with a 5.0-inch display by Strategy Analytics’ SpecTRAX Service. Correct as of 22nd December 2017. For more information on Strategy Analytics' results go to: www.sonymobile.com/testresults/ 
iii Display ratios may vary based on content formatting 
iv Hi-Res Audio requires compatible wired headset and use of supplied conversion cable USB Type-C™ to 3.5mm Audio Jack Adapter 
v Near Hi-Res Audio is possible when your Xperia device is connected to a compatible LDAC device via Bluetooth 
vi Up to 1.2Gbps, dependent on market availability and compatible network 
vii Battery Care charges your phone to 90%,waits, then charges to 100% just before your normal wake-up time 
viii WCH20 available as an optional accessory 
ix XZ2 and XZ2 Compact are water resistant and protected against dust, so don’t worry if you get caught in the rain or want to wash off dirt under a tap water, but remember all ports and attached covers should be firmly closed. You should not put the device completely underwater; or expose it to seawater, salt water, chlorinated water or liquids such as drinks. Abuse and improper use of device will invalidate warranty. The device has been tested under Ingress Protection rating IP65/68. For more info, see www.sonymobile.com/waterresistant. Note the XZ2 has a capless USB port to connect and charge. The USB port needs to be completely dry before charging

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Sony and Bell Bring Lightning Fast LTE Download
Speeds to Canadians with the new XperiaTM XZ2

• Leveraging Canada’s Best National Network, the Sony Xperia XZ2 is Canada’s fastest smartphone and can reach LTE download speeds over 1 Gbps
• Powered by the Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 845 Mobile Platform with X20 LTE, the Xperia XZ2 is designed to deliver superior consumer experiences and performance to satisfy the most demanding technology enthusiasts

Toronto, February 26, 2018 - With today’s announcement of the Sony Xperia XZ2 at Mobile World Congress 2018, Sony and Bell are pleased to announce that Canadians will be able to experience the next generation of network speeds with this ground-breaking smartphone starting in late spring of this year.

Xperia XZ2, featuring the Snapdragon 845 Mobile Platform with X20 LTE, will be the most immersive entertainment device available in Canada with Sony’s brand new Dynamic Vibration System that truly brings content to life. The Xperia XZ2 brings a new haptic experience, adding the perceptual sense of touch so you can feel your viewing and listening experience. Canadians will be able to feel every beat, action and reaction with Xperia XZ2.

“With the Xperia XZ2, one of the first Gigabit LTE smartphones to come to Canada, Bell customers will be able to enjoy the most immersive entertainment content available,” said Kunihiko Shiomi, President – North America, Sony Mobile Communications Inc. “In recent testing with Bell, the Xperia XZ2 has delivered stunningly fast Gigabit LTE download speeds, making it Canada’s fastest
smartphone.”

In more places than ever before, Canadians will be able to enjoy entertainment and other bandwidth-intensive content with the trifecta of Bell’s superfast network, Qualcomm Technologies’ superior processing technology and Sony’s unparalleled mobile design expertise.

“Bell was the first carrier in North America to deliver Tri Band and Quad Band LTE-A data speeds and is proud to be enabling a new generation of smartphones with Gigabit speeds throughout 2018,” said Blaik Kirby, President of Bell Mobility. “Not only will the Sony Xperia XZ2 support Gigabit download speeds, it will also support faster peak theoretical upload speeds of 150 Mbps.”

“We are pleased to work with Sony and Bell to bring superior connectivity to consumers in Canada so they can enjoy next level entertainment experiences,” said Mike Finley, Senior Vice President and President, Qualcomm North America and Australia, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “The integrated Snapdragon X20 LTE modem boasts Gigabit LTE download speeds, designed to deliver unparalleled speed and further improve the mobile experience consumers have come to expect.”