Sony Xperia Honami aka Xperia Z1's latest teaser reveals rear camera with G lens

Sony has just put up a teaser image on its Google+ page for what is most likely to be the upcoming Sony Xperia Honami or Xperia Z1/ i1's rear camera.

Sony has already been making headlines this week with the alleged press render images of the phone surfacing online, in a way confirming the colour variants of the yet to be announced handset.

The company has posted the image to its Google+ feed and notes, "Have we captured your attention yet...?" accompanied by the #bestofsony hashtag. The earlier teaser images have also been posted with the same hashtag which suggests that the company wants more people to talk about its upcoming smartphone on social platforms.

The new image shows the rear panel of the device housing the camera alongside an LED flash and G logo. The G logo hints that the Xperia Honami could feature the company's G lens which is usually used in the company's DSLRs and Digi-cams.

This is the first time that the company has teased the device's camera which has been considered as the highlight of the much talked about device. The Sony Xperia Honami is said to feature a 20-megapixel Exmor RS rear camera that is expected to sport a Sony G-lens and BIONZ image processor.

Earlier, Sony teased the upcoming smartphone's power button which was reminiscent of the one present in Sony's flagship smartphones, Xperia Z and Xperia Z Ultra. The company also teased animage showing the phone in water suggesting that the handset is water-resistant.

Sony is expected to introduce the company's next flagship smartphone at an event on September 4 on the sidelines of the IFA.

Rumoured specifications of the Xperia Honami or Z1 include a 5.0-inch full-HD display. It's likely to be powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM. It's expected to include 16GB internal storage and a 3000mAh battery. The device is said to run Android 4.2 Jelly Bean.

PlayStation 4 has received over a million pre-orders, reveals Sony

Sony has had more than 1 million preorders worldwide for its new PlayStation 4 console, the head of its SCE computer entertainment division said on Tuesday.

SCE Chief Executive Andrew House added that the console will be available from November 15 in North America and will hit stores in Europe from November 29.

"The response we have received is nothing short of incredible," he said at a news conference on the sidelines of Gamescom, Europe's biggest videogames fair.

He added the console will be available in 32 countries worldwide during the holiday season.

Microsoft Corp has said it will start selling its latest console at some point in November, intensifying competition ahead of the year-end holidays and gift-giving season.

(Also see: Xbox One launch in 8 European countries pushed to 2014)

Sony has priced the PS4, $100 lower than the new Xbox One by Microsoft at $399.

Microsoft unveiled the Xbox One in May, its first new gaming console in eight years, marking its strongest push so far to dominate consumers' living rooms with an array of exclusive media content.

Microsoft Europe's Vice President of Interactive Entertainment Chris Lewis said on Tuesday preorders for the Xbox One were "unprecedented" but declined to give more details.

Sony said it would also cut the retail price for its PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita devices to $199 in the United States and 199 euros in Europe.

Previously the Vita was 249 euros and the PlayStation 3 was 229 euros.

Sony Xperia M with Android 4.1 now available online for Rs. 12,990

Sony is gradually getting aggressive with Xperia smartphone line-up for the Indian market. The company is not only targeting the high-end customers with its Xperia Z Ultra which was launched last month, but also eyeing for budget Android segment with its latest, Xperia M.

The handset has not been officially launched in the company yet but is available through online retailer, Saholic for Rs. 12,990. The listing was tweeted by the retailer who also claims that the handset will be available from August 23.

The Sony Xperia M is powered by 1GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4 Plus MSM8227 processor with 1GB of RAM. It features 4-inch TFT LCD with a resolution of 480x854 pixels and boasts a scratch-resistant display. It runs on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean with Sony's Timescape UI on top.

There is 4GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 32GB with the help of microSD card. The Xperia M sports 5-megapixel rear camera with LED flash and a VGA front camera. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, 3G, Bluetooth, aGPS and NFC. It also includes a 1,750mAh battery that can deliver 10 hours of talk time and 504 hours of standby time, according to Sony. As per the listing, the Sony Xperia M will be available in four colour options - Black, White, Purple and Lime.

The Sony Xperia M was announced by the company back in June along with its dual-SIM variant, Sony Xperia M dual. The company had announced both Xperia M and Xperia M dual will start retailing from the third quarter of 2013 and it seems the company is sticking to its promise.

Sony Xperia M key specifications

• 4-inch TFT LCD with a resolution of 480x854 pixels
• 1GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4 Plus MSM8227 processor
• 1GB RAM
• 4GB internal storage, expandable up to 32GB via microSD
• 5-megapixel rear camera with LED flash
• VGA front-facing camera
• Wi-Fi, 3G, Bluetooth, aGPS, NFC
• 1,750mAh
• Android 4.1 Jelly Bean

Purported teaser image of Sony Xperia 'Honami' surfaces online, points to IFA launch

Sony may not have officially revealed plans for its next flagship smartphone, codenamed Honami, but the leaks related to the device just don't stop coming in.

Now an alleged Sony teaser has been leaked which is being claimed to be for the company's upcoming flagship smartphone, the Sony Xperia i1 Honami.

The images appeared on Chinese site, Digi-wo and were first spotted up by XperiaBlog. The teaser images show a purple device across a black background. The leaked images show that the device's edges are more rounded much like the Xperia Z Ultra, than straight, as seen in earlier leaked images that looked close to the company's flagship smartphone, the Xperia Z.

It also shows a glimpse of the right side of the device that houses the power key, flap and the volume rocker keys. The image also teases a September 4 date at the bottom with 'Berlin' mentioned beneath.

The Sony Xperia Honami is rumoured to sport a 5.0-inch full-HD display. It's likely to be powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM. The device is said to feature a 20-megapixel Exmor RS camera that is expected to sport a Sony G-lens and BIONZ image processor. The phone is also expected to feature a 2.0-megapixel front facing camera. It's may include a 16GB internal storage and a 3000mAh battery. The device is said to run Android 4.2 Jelly Bean.

The device is also said to come with IP57 certification which means it would be dust-and water-resistant.

Alleged press shots of the Sony Xperia i1 'Honami' were leaked a few days ago. Earlier the model number of the handset was confirmed to be C6906.

Sony Cybershot RX100 II with 20-megapixel sensor, Wi-Fi and NFC launched for Rs. 42,990

Sony has announced the launch of the Cybershot RX100 II, successor to the popular RX100.

Sony Cybershot RX100 II comes with a 20-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor along with the f1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens and ISO 160 - 12800. It features Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity options and a 3.0-inch display.

Sony Cybershot RX100 II includes a step zoom function that lets users choose from five popular focal lengths using the control ring - 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm or 100mm. It comes with 7.2x optical zoom in still capture and lets you shoot up to 10 frames per second in continuous shooting mode.

The camera lets you capture full-HD video and supports shooting in RAW mode as well.

Sony Cybershot RX100 II comes in Black colour and is now available for Rs. 42,990.

Sony Cybershot RX100 II technical specifications

Image Sensor	Sensor Type	1.0 type (13.2 x 8.8 mm) "Exmor R" CMOS sensor, aspect ratio 3:2
	Number of Pixels	[Effective] Approx. 20.2 megapixels [Gross] Approx. 20.9 megapixels
Lens	Lens Type	Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T*, 7 elements in 6 groups (4 aspheric elements including AA lens)
	F-number (Maximum Aperture)	F1.8 (W) - 4.9 (T)
	Aperture Type	Iris diaphragm (7 blades)
	Focal Length (f =)	f = 10.4-37.1 mm
	35 mm Film Equivalent	[Still Image 3:2] f = 28-100 mm [Still Image 16:9] f = 29-105 mm [Still Image 4:3] f = 30-108 mm [Still Image 1:1] f = 36-127 mm [Movie 16:9] f = 29-105 mm (SteadyShot Standard), f = 33-120 mm (SteadyShot Active Mode) [Movie 4:3] f = 36-128 mm (SteadyShot Standard), f = 41-146 mm (SteadyShot Active Mode)
	Focus Range (from the front of the lens)	AF approx. 5 cm to infinity (W), approx. 55 cm to infinity (T)
	Optical Zoom	3.6x (Optical Zoom during movie recording)
	Clear Image Zoom Still Image	7.2x
	Digital Zoom	Still Image: 20M approx. 14x / 10M approx. 20x / 5M approx. 28x / VGA approx. 54x Movie: 14x
Screen / Viewfinder	Screen Type	7.5 cm (3.0 type) (4:3) / 1,229,000 dots / Xtra Fine / TFT LCD / Tiltable (up approx. 84 deg., down approx. 45 deg.)
	Brightness Control	Auto / Manual (5 steps) / Sunny Weather mode
	Viewfinder	Optional (sold separately)
Camera	SteadyShot	[Still Image] Optical [Movie] Active Mode, Optical type with electronic compensation (Anti-rolling)
	Focus Mode	Single-shot AF (AF-S) / Continuous AF (AF-C) / Direct Manual Focus (DMF) / Manual Focus
	Focus Area	Multi point AF (25 points) / Centre weighted AF / Flexible spot / Flexible spot (tracking focus) / Flexible spot (face tracking)
	Light Metering Mode	Multi segment / Centre weighted / Spot
	Exposure Compensation	+/- 3.0 EV, 1/3 EV step
	ISO Sensitivity (Still Image)	Auto (ISO 160 - 12800, selectable with upper / lower limit), 160 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 / 3200 / 6400 / 12800 (Expandable to ISO 100 / 125) Multi Frame NR: Auto (ISO 160 - 25600), 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 / 3200 / 6400 / 12800 / 25600
	ISO Sensitivity (Movie)	Auto (ISO 160 - 3200 equivalent), 160 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 / 3200
	White Balance Mode	Auto / Daylight / Shade / Cloudy / Incandescent / Fluor (Warm White) / Fluor (Cool White) / Fluor (Day White) / Fluor (Daylight) / Flash / C.Temp., Filter / Custom
	Shutter Speed	iAuto (4 - 1/2000) / Program Auto (1 - 1/2000) / Manual (Bulb, 30 - 1/2000) / Aperture Priority (8 - 1/2000) / Shutter Priority (30 - 1/2000)
	Aperture	F1.8 - 11 (W), F4.9 - 11 (T)
	Continuous Shooting Speed (maximum)	Approx. 10 fps
	Image Control	Creative Style, Colour Space (sRGB / Adobe), Quality (RAW / RAW & JPEG / Fine / Standard), Long Exposure NR (On / Off), High ISO NR (Normal / High / Low), Multi Frame Noise Reduct.
	Dynamic Range Functions	Off, Dynamic Range Optimiser (Auto / Level), Auto High Dynamic Range: Off, Auto exposure difference, Exposure difference level (1.0 - 6.0 EV, 1.0 EV step)
	Self-Timer	10 sec. / 2 sec. / Self portrait / Self timer Cont.
	Shooting Mode	Superior Auto, Intelligent Auto, Program Auto (Program shift available), Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Manual, Scene Selection, Movie, Sweep shooting
	Scene Selection	Portrait, Anti Motion Blur, Sports Action, Pet, Gourmet, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night Scene, Hand-held Twilight, Night Portrait, Fireworks, High Sensitivity
	Sweep Shooting	Sweep Panorama
	Creative Style	Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, Black & White
	Picture Effect	[Still Image] Toy Camera, Pop Colour, Posterisation, Retro Photo, Soft High-key, Partial Colour, High Contrast Monochrome, Soft Focus, HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Miniature, Watercolour, Illustration [Movie] Toy Camera, Pop Colour, Posterisation, Retro Photo, Soft High-key, Partial Colour, High Contrast Monochrome
	Number of Recognised Scenes	[Still Image] 33 [Movie] 44
	Flash	Flash Mode: Auto / Fill-flash / Slow Sync / Rear Sync / Off Flash Range: ISO Auto 0.30 m to 15.0 m (W) / 0.55 m to 5.7 m (T) ISO 12800 up to 30.0 m (W) / 11.3 m (T)
	Other Shooting Functions	Face Detection, Face Registration, Smile Shutter, Dual Rec, Grid Line, Digital Level Gauge (pitch and roll), MR (memory recall), Exposure Bracketing, White Balance Bracketing, Peaking, MF Assist, Auto Object Framing, Photo Creativity, Shooting Tips
Recording	Compatible Recording Media	Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo (High Speed), Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo, Memory Stick XC-HG Duo, Memory Stick Micro, Memory Stick Micro (Mark2), SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card, SDXC Memory Card, microSD Memory Card, microSDHC Memory Card, microSDXC Memory Card
	Recording Format	[Still Image] JPEG, RAW (Sony ARW 2.3 format) [Movie] AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
	File Format	DCF / DPOF
	Number of Recorded Pixels (Image Size)	[3:2]L: 20M (5472 x 3648) / M: 10M (3888 x 2592) / S: 5.0M (2736 x 1824) [16:9]L: 17M (5472 x 3080) / M: 7.5M (3648 x 2056) / S: 4.2M (2720 x 1528) [4:3]L: 18M (4864 x 3648) / M: 10M (3648 x 2736) / S: 5.0M (2592 x 1944) / VGA [1:1]L: 13M (3648 x 3648) / M: 6.5M (2544 x 2544) / S: 3.7M (1920 x 1920) Sweep Panorama: Wide (12416 x 1856 / 5536 x 2160),Standard (8192 x 1856 / 3872 x 2160)
	Movie Recording Mode	AVCHD: 28M PS (1920 x 1080, 60p/50p) / 24M FX (1920 x 1080, 60i/50i) / 17M FH (1920 x 1080, 60i/50i) / 24M FX (1920 x 1080, 24p/25p) / 17M FH (1920 x 1080, 24p/25p) MP4: 12M (1440 x 1080, 30 fps/25 fps) / 3M VGA (640 x 480, 30 fps/25 fps)
Print		Exif Print, PRINT Image Matching (PIM3)
Interface	Input and Output Terminal	Multi Terminal, Hi-Speed USB (USB2.0), Micro HDMI, Multi Interface Shoe
	Wi-Fi	Yes
	NFC	Yes (NFC Forum Type 3 Tag compatible, One-touch remote, One-touch sharing)
Power	Power Source	DC 3.6V (supplied battery) / DC 5.0V (supplied AC adaptor)
	Battery System	NP-BX1 (supplied)
	Power Consumption (Camera mode)	Approx. 1.5W
	USB Charge / USB Power Supply	Yes (supplied AC adaptor)
	Battery Life	[Still Image] Approx. 350 / Approx. 175 min. (LCD) [Movie] Approx. 45 min. (In MP4 12M mode, max. continuous shooting time is approx. 15 min. and max. file size is 2GB) / Approx. 80 min. (In MP4 12M mode, max. continuous shooting time is approx. 15 min. and max. file size is 2GB)
Others	Playback Functions	3D viewing mode, Control for HDMI, Slideshow
	Supplied Accessories	Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-BX1, AC Adaptor, Micro USB Cable, Wrist Strap, Shoulder Strap Adaptor, Instruction Manual

Sony Xperia Z Ultra: First impressions

Smartphones are increasingly getting bigger, closing the gap with tablets. In fact, at a point where the smartphone screen crosses the 6-inch, it's difficult to call them smartphones. While not everyone likes to call them 'phablets', they clearly lie in hybrid territory, offering smartphone features in a near tablet form factor.

Sony has also recently forayed into this segment, with its new device, the Xperia Z Ultra, which boasts of a 6.4-inch display. It's certainly not the first device to sport a large screen; we've seen the Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 and the Huawei Ascend Mate featuring 6-inch+ displays, but we'd have to say that it's the sleekest out of all of them, at this point in time. The Xperia Z Ultra is super slim with a thickness of just 6.5mm.

We got a chance to play with the Xperia Z Ultra, and feel that it is one the sleekest devices, available. Although it weighs 212 grams, the overall weight to dimensions ratio is optimum and the phone doesn't feel very bulky. Having said that,  it doesn't easily fit the front pockets of your jeans, and you'd need to put it in a bag or hold it all the time. The Xperia Z Ultra follows the same design language that we've seen in the Xperia Z and looks more rectangular as the edges are just subtly rounded.

The front of the device is dominated by its 6.4-inch display. The Xperia Z Ultra's screen has a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels and is the first smartphone display that integrates Sony's Triluminos technology, which the company introduced at CES with its Bravia televisions. Sony claims that through the technology the display reproduces a greater range of rich, natural colours to deliver true, natural shades. It won't be wrong to say that the Xperia Z Ultra's screen is the most brightest and vivid display we've ever seen on a device of this size. Unlike the Sony Xperia Z, where we'd observed minor niggles with viewing angles, the Xperia Z Ultra's screen was flawless. Pictures and videos looked natural and colour reproduction was pretty accurate. The big screen and the full-HD resolution makes watching videos a joyful experience. Blacks had the perfect depth and the screen contrast was optimum.

Another interesting feature of the Xperia Z Ultra is its handwriting recognition functionality. The phone's screen is compatible with any pencil and selected stylus or pen with tip diameter over 1mm. We tried using a lead pencil to input text on the phone's screen with the Notes app and found that it recognised our writing with mixed accuracy. It offers word predictions even in the handwriting recognition mode, so this should not be a major problem.

The device's 2-megapixel front facing camera and the sensor array are located above the display. There are no hardware buttons on the front and the Xperia Z Ultra features software controls for navigation.

The front panel is surrounded by a thin frame which meets a thicker aluminium frame that separates the front and back panel.

The right side of the device features the same round metal button for the Power/ Screen lock functions that resembles the crown of a watch. Below this button, you'd find the Volume rocker key, made of plastic. Both these keys are easily accessible.

Since the Xperia Z Ultra is also dust and water proof and comes with IP55 and IP58 certification, the ports and slots are protected with plastic flaps. A flap that hides the microSD card and the micro-SIM card sits above the Power button at the right side. The 3.5mm headset jack is located just above this flap.

The left side of the device features a flap that protects the micro-USB port. You'll also find contacts for docking the device to a dock accessory, which is sold separately. The top and bottom edges feature small speaker outlets.

The back of the device is made of glass and sports a shiny, reflective finish. You'll see minimalist Sony and Xperia branding and the 8-megapixel rear camera lens at the back. The back is not removable. Unfortunately, the device doesn't offer an LED flash to shoot pictures in the dark.

Under the hood, the Sony Xperia Z Ultra features a 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM. It's the first device in the market featuring the Snapdragon 800 processor and in our short time with the device, the user experience delivered by the device was pretty snappy. The Xperia Z Ultra's interface which has been customised by Sony was responsive and smooth during our use. We also played the preloaded Asphalt 7 game and the gaming experience delivered by the phone was top notch.

We used the device's camera to shoot pictures with decent amount of light but found that there was some noise when one zooms in 100 percent.

Overall, the Xperia Z Ultra's USP is its big and bright screen, though we're not sure if everyone would be happy with its form factor, and the fact that it doesn't feature an LED flash with the camera. At an MRP of Rs. 46,990, no one would like compromises.

Watch out for our in-depth review of the Xperia Z Ultra.


Sony Xperia Z Ultra key specifications

• 6.4-inch TFT Triluminos display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels and Shatter proof sheet on scratch-resistant glass
• 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor
• 2GB RAM
• 8-megapixel rear camera with Exmor RS sensor
• 2-megapixel front facing camera
• 16GB internal storage expandable up to 64GB via microSD card
• Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
• 4G LTE/ NFC/ Bluetooth 4.0/ Wi-Fi
• 3000mAh battery

Sony expected to reject entertainment spin-off: Report

Sony Corp's board is expected to reject a proposal from activist investor Daniel Loeb, whose fund is the company's largest shareholder, to spin-off part of its entertainment division, the Nikkei newspaper reported.

Many directors argued, citing a report from financial advisers, that Sony could compete better by maintaining close links between the entertainment and electronics divisions, the Japanese business daily said.

Sony's board has yet to finalize its position but is leaning toward a rejection, it said.

Daniel Loeb proposed in May that the company sell off as much as a fifth of the group's money-making entertainment arm - movies, TV and music - to free up cash to revive the electronics business.

Sony's U.S.-listed shares were down 2 percent at $21.19 in afternoon trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

Sony declined comment on the Nikkei report, saying in an email to Reuters that its board and management continued to review the Third Point proposal. Third Point did not respond to a request for comment.

Last year Sony was Hollywood's strongest studio with 16.6 percent of the U.S. box office. But it released two bombs this summer and its market share has dwindled to 8 percent so far this year.

Will Smith's film, "After Earth", and "White House Down", starring Jamie Foxx and Channing Tatum, both opened well below industry expectations for such big budget productions.

It had enjoyed a boomer year least year, boosted by blockbusters "The Amazing Spider-Man" and the James Bond film, "Skyfall".

In a note to investors on Monday, Loeb ratcheted up the pressure, saying Sony's entertainment business was poorly managed with a bloated corporate structure and marketing budgets that did not seem to be in line with the return on capital invested.

Loeb said Sony Chief Executive Kazuo Hirai deserved praise for the green shoots visible in electronics but faulted him for saying the entertainment business was doing just fine.

Sony will consider disclosing more financial information about the entertainment division, which Third Point says lacks transparency, the Nikkei said.

(Also see: Sony hires Morgan Stanley, Citi to gauge spin-off option - report)

Hirai pleaded in June for patience from shareholders as the Sony board considered the proposal.

Sony's shares have risen around 14 percent since Third Point's push for an IPO of the entertainment division was made public in mid-May.

Sony Xperia Z Ultra smartphone with 6.4-inch full-HD screen launched for Rs. 46,99

Sony has launched its biggest-ever smartphone, the Xperia Z Ultra, at a price point of Rs. 46,990. The phone will be available starting August 2, in Black, White and Purple colours.

The Sony Xperia Z Ultra sports a sleek look with a thickness of 6.5mm, and weighs 212 grams. It features a 6.4-inch full-HD display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels. It is the first smartphone display that integrates Sony's Triluminos technology, which the company introduced at CES with its Bravia televisions. Sony claims that through the technology the display reproduces a greater range of rich, natural colours to deliver true, natural shades. The technology also includes X-Reality for mobile, Sony's intelligent super resolution display technology which as per the company, analyses each image and reproduces lacking pixels to optimise quality for the sharpest videos.  

Xperia Z Ultra is powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor coupled with 2GB of RAM. It offers 16GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 64GB via microSD card. 

The Xperia Z Ultra sports an 8-megapixel Exmor RS rear camera and a 2-megapixel front facing camera. The device includes LTE, NFC, Wi-Fi, 3G, DLNA and Bluetooth connectivity options. It has a 3,000mAh battery that Sony claims could deliver up to 14 hours of talktime and 768 hours of standby time.

Just like the Xperia Z and Xperia Z Tablet, the Xperia Z Ultra is also dust and water proof and comes with IP55 and IP58 certification. The Sony Xperia Z Ultra comes with handwriting recognition support and the device's screen can work with a pencil or a stylus/ pen that has a tip of more than 1mm(in diameter). It also comes with new and updated Sony Media Applications that include apps like Walkman, Movies and Album, in addition to apps related to handwriting recognition and some India specific apps such as Sony LIV catch up tv app and Sony Music Jive app. The phone will also bundle a month's access to BigFlix movie streaming app and the full version of the Asphalt 7 game.

Sony also announced some accessories including a stereo Bluetooth headset, magnetic charging dock and a cover with an additional battery, all available for an extra cost.

Sony Xperia Z Ultra key specifications

• 6.4-inch TFT Triluminos display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels and Shatter proof sheet on scratch-resistant glass
• 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor
• 2GB RAM
• 8-megapixel rear camera with Exmor RS sensor
• 2-megapixel front facing camera
• 16GB internal storage expandable up to 64GB via microSD card
• Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
• 4G LTE/ NFC/ Bluetooth 4.0/ Wi-Fi
• 3000mAh battery

Vu 84-inch 4K LED TV launched in India for Rs. 9,00,000

Vu Technologies has launched Vu 84-inch Super 4K resolution TV in the Indian market at a price point of Rs. 9,00,000.

The latest Ultra HD LED TV launched by Vu comes with a built-in computer with support for Windows 8 or Linux operating system. The company claims that consumers can change the source input to find a Windows 7 or Windows 8 operating system while Linux, and Android are also available. This feature makes the Vu 84-inch Ultra HD LED TV, the world's only TV with a built-in computer, as per the company.

The newly launched TV can store up to 500GB of media and is powered with an Intel HD 3000 graphics card for PC gaming experience. It also includes preloaded productivity apps like Open Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. The TV also comes with an built-in set-top box, a gaming console with gesture control and support for miracast wireless mirroring standard.

The Vu 84-inch Ultra HD LED TV sports an A+ Grade achromatic, bright LED backlit panel and 1:1 Pixel mapping that provides more than 1 lakh TV viewing hours. Vu is also offering its consumers the option to customise the TV panels and frames.

The Ultra high-definition or U-HD is the latest trend in the TV industry and all major television manufacturers are scrambling to get into this emerging segment.

Earlier this month, Samsung launched its first Ultra High Definition (UHD) or 4K television, Samsung UHD 85S9 in the Indian market for Rs. 27, 00,000.

Companies like Sony, Samsung and LG have also- rolled out a range of U-HD televisions which are priced between Rs. 17 lakh and Rs. 27 lakh and boast of screen sizes 84-inches and 85-inches.

Sony announces names of Xperia devices getting Android 4.3 update

Just hours after Google officially released the latest iteration of its operating system, Android 4.3, device maker Sony also released a list of Xperia devices which will be getting the Android 4.3 software update.

The Japanese handset major announced on its official blog that it will be rolling out the latest software update to select Xperia handsets including the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia SP, Xperia ZR, Xperia Tablet Z and Xperia Z Ultra.

However, Sony has not mentioned a specific timeline for the upcoming software updates.

The blog post also suggests that Android 4.2 Jelly Bean upgrades for Xperia Z and Xperia ZL are still underway while next in the list are Xperia ZR and the Xperia Tablet Z which will receive the update in early August.

The company has also revealed that it has plans to upgrade some of the Xperia devices running Android 4.1 directly to Android 4.3 an that it will reveal details through its Twitter account, soon.

Sony has not been very active, when it comes to releasing updates for its existing devices. The company has acknowledged this on its blog and notes, "Thank you for all the feedback on our Jelly Bean 4.1 rollout for Xperia 2012 products - we're aware the process hasn't been as succinct or as timely as you might've expected. As part of Developer World's piece, Fredrik Ekstrand, our Head of Software Product Management, elaborates on some of the reasons for this, but essentially - we've heard your frustrations and are constantly improving the way we do things."

Sony Xperia Z Ultra with 6.4-inch full-HD display now available online for Rs. 44,990

The Sony Xperia Z Ultra smartphone, which had been listed as 'coming soon' on online store Saholic, a day back, has now got a price tag of Rs. 44,990.

The listing promises a delivery time of 7 days for Delhi PIN-codes, so it's likely that Sony might make an official announcement within this week. It also bundles a 16GB memory card with the phone.

The Sony Xperia Z Ultra sports a sleek look with a thickness of 6.5mm, and weighs 212 grams. It features a 6.4-inch full-HD display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels and boasts of Sony's proprietary BRAVIA Engine 2. It is powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor coupled with 2GB of RAM. It offers 16GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 64GB via microSD card. The Xperia Z Ultra sports an 8-megapixel Exmor RS rear camera and a 2-megapixel front facing camera. The device includes LTE, NFC, Wi-Fi, 3G, DLNA and Bluetooth connectivity options. It has a 3000mAh battery that Sony claims could deliver up to 14 hours of talktime and 768 hours of standby time.

Just like the Xperia Z and Xperia Z Tablet, the Xperia Z Ultra is also dust and water proof and comes with IP55 and IP58 certification. The Sony Xperia Z Ultra comes with handwriting recognition support and the device's screen can work with a pencil or a stylus/ pen that has a tip of more than 1mm(in diameter). It also comes with new and updated Sony Media Applications that include apps like Walkman, Movies and Album.

Last month, the company announced the Xperia Z Ultra for select markets and it was expected that the phone would be globally launched in Q3, 2013.

Meanwhile, Sony introduced the 'Big Xperia Xchange' offer that includes a minimum assured discount of Rs. 5,000 when customers exchange their old smartphone for a Sony Xperia Z or Xperia ZL.

It's worth mentioning that Sony has not officially confirmed the pricing of the Sony Xperia Z Ultra. It has also not shared any information on the availability of the phone.

Mobiles launched in July 2013

Sony Xperia Z Ultra key specifications

• 6.4-inch TFT Triluminos display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels and Shatter proof sheet on scratch-resistant glass
• 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor
• 2GB RAM
• 8-megapixel rear camera with Exmor RS sensor
• 2-megapixel front facing camera
• 16GB internal storage expandable up to 64GB via microSD card
• Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
• LTE, NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• 3000mAh battery

Sony introduces exchange offer for Xperia Z and Xperia ZL, Xperia Z Ultra spotted online

Following on the likes of Apple, Samsung and BlackBerry, Sony has also started a promotional offer for its flagship devices, the Xperia Z and Xperia ZL that were launched, earlier this year.

Sony has introduced the 'Big Xperia Xchange' offer that includes a minimum discount of Rs. 5,000 when customers exchange their old smartphone with a Sony Xperia Z or ZL.

Under the offer, the Sony Xperia Z that was previously priced at Rs. 38,790 is now available for Rs. 33,790, under exchange. Similarly, the Xperia ZL that was launched along with the flagship device, with a price tag of Rs. 35,690 is now available at a price of Rs. 30,690 under the exchange offer.

The company is also giving a free case with the Sony Xperia Z worth Rs. 1,990 and a free snap cover worth Rs. 1490 with Sony Xperia ZL in addition to the new exchange offer. The company is also offering the smartphones on EMI offers for 12 months or 6 months period with 0 percent interest with select banks. However, there has been no official communication from Sony detailing the names of eligible smartphones under this exchange offer.

Both Sony Xperia Z and ZL were launched earlier this year and feature a 5-inch full-HD display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels, are powered by 1.5GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and run the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean OS. While the Xperia Z is a water and dust resistant phone, the Xperia ZL doesn't offer this protection.

Meanwhile, Sony's next flagship model, the Xperia Z Ultra has been spotted at an online retailer. There are no details about the pricing of the device but the listing confirms the availability of the phone starting July 31.

The latest move by the Japanese handset vendor is expected to be a way to clear some inventory in the wake of the launch of its next-flagship device, Sony Xperia Z Ultra. The device is expected to launch in Hong Kong in the last week of July.

The Sony Xperia Z Ultra features a 6.4-inch full-HD display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels. The device is powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core processor coupled with 2GB of RAM and an Adreno 330 GPU for graphics boost. It runs Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. Other connectivity options include Wi-Fi, GPRS, EDGE, 3G, DLNA and NFC. On-board storage stands at 16GB which can be further expanded up to 64GB with the help of a microSD card. There is a 3,000mAh battery backing the device.

Sony Xperia Z Ultra key specifications

• 6.4-inch full-HD display with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels
• 2.2GHz quad core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800
• 2GB of RAM
• 16GB of internal storage
• 8-megapixel rear camera
• 2-megapixel front camera
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, DLNA
• 3000mAh battery
• Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean)

Sony Xperia i1 Honami detailed specification leaks online

Sony may not be making too much headlines since it announced the Xperia Z Ultra, but that doesn't mean that the company is not working on any other devices. The latest buzz is about the Japanese handset vendor's next flagship device Xperia i1, popularly known as 'Honami', that has been the subject of several leaks in the past.

According to ePrice, Sony Xperia i1 will come with a 5.0-inch display with 1080p resolution. It will be powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM. The most-talked about specification is its 20-megapixel Exmor RS camera that would also feature Sony G-lens and BIONZ image processor which are usually found in some of Sony's digital cameras.

The front will house a 2.0-megapixel camera. The device will come with 16GB expandable storage, though the maximum supported capacity has not been detailed yet. The device will include a 3,000mAh battery and would come with dimensions 144x73.9x8.3mm. It will run the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean operating system.

The device is also said to come with IP57 certification which means it is dust-and water-resistant.

It is being said that Sony will unveil its Honami smartphone at a press event on September 4 at the IFA expo in Berlin. ePrice further claims that Sony has already sent out invitations related to the launch of Sony Xperia i1 Honami.

The Sony Xperia i1 'Honami' alleged press shots were leaked a few days ago. Earlier the model number of the handset was confirmed to be C6906.