Sony today announces the launch of its latest flagship smartphone Xperia 1 VIII. Featuring the new AI Camera Assistant powered by Xperia Intelligence, which leverages AI technology to enhance photography by suggesting helpful camera settings such as colour tones, lens selection, and bokeh effects which are optimized depending on the scene and subject. The new telephoto camera is equipped with a 1/1.56-inch image sensor, approximately four times larger than that used in the previous model⁴, enabling improved delicate and highly detailed shots of distant subjects. All three of its cameras (16mm / 24mm / 70mm)¹ deliver low-light performance comparable to that of a full-frame sensor in terms of noise reduction and dynamic range², allowing for clear imaging even in dark environments³.

With the introduction of Xperia 1 VIII, Sony aims to support the joy of everyday photography and creation by enabling customers in their drive to capture better photos.  

Improved Photography Experience Thanks to the New AI Camera Assistant and Telephoto Camera

The new AI Camera Assistant powered by Xperia Intelligence is designed to make photography even more enjoyable. By simply pointing the camera at your subject, it automatically recognises the scene by combining various factors such as the subject itself and weather conditions to suggest different options for your image that include colour tones, lens effects and bokeh expressions. These recommendations are based on Creative Look that reflect Sony’s unique imaging philosophy cultivated through α™ (Alpha™). With a simple tap on the suggestion, you can effortlessly achieve your desired creative expression. 

In addition, the telephoto camera is equipped with a new 1/1.56‑inch image sensor that is approximately four times larger than that of the previous model⁴, delivering clear and detailed images even in low-light conditions. Furthermore, RAW multi-frame processing is applied to all lenses, simultaneously expanding dynamic range (HDR) and performing noise reduction in low-light conditions⁵. This method effectively suppresses highlight clipping and shadow crushing, improving colour reproduction accuracy in high-contrast scenes. Fine details with clear, sharp edges are faithfully preserved in both bright and dark areas. In addition, noise is reduced even in low-light environments, ensuring clear and crisp images.

Redesigned and Crafted to Inspire

The stunning new ORE design is inspired by natural materials with colour inspiration for the four new choices originating from raw gemstones, Graphite Black, Iolite Silver, Garnet Red, and Native Gold⁶. By incorporating a camera design that makes use of the new telephoto camera, along with newly developed processing applied to the materials used throughout the sides, back, and overall body, a unified and cohesive design has been achieved. Subtle surface textures provide a comfortable feel in the hand with enhanced grip. Xperia 1 VIII retains the famous dedicated camera shutter button which offers a photography experience similar to a dedicated camera, plus the 3.5mm audio jack continues to support high-quality audio using wired headphones, offering exceptional sound quality inherited from WALKMAN® DNA. 

Advanced Full-Stage Stereo Speakers Deliver a Powerful, Immersive Sound Experience

Xperia 1 VIII is equipped with newly developed identical left and right speaker units, delivering further advances in stereo performance. These speakers produce deeper bass and more extended high frequencies, while creating a wider and deeper soundstage. Voices and instruments are reproduced with greater clarity and richness, making music performances and movie scenes feel as though they are unfolding right in front of you for an immersive and engaging audio experience.

Peak Performance Combined with up to Two-Days Battery Life⁷

Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform⁸, Xperia 1 VIII has improved processing speed and increased performance by 20%⁴. From lightning-fast app launches and seamless multitasking to captivating gameplay and responsive content creation, this powerhouse platform delivers next-generation speed, performance, and efficiency.​ 

In addition to everyday activities such as browsing social media and websites, Processing Optimization⁹ has also been newly applied to the usage of map apps with high power consumption, achieving further reductions in overall power usage.

A Case Designed to Protect and Harmonise 

The Xperia 1 VIII can be protected with the optional case¹⁰, which features a translucent material designed to enhance the device’s ORE-inspired design. It also features a convenient built-in stand that supports both vertical and horizontal positioning, providing comfortable provision for video viewing. Additionally, the material is resistant to yellowing, maintaining its optimum appearance over time. 

¹35mm equivalent.

²Based on comparisons with Sony digital cameras equipped with full-frame sensors, evaluating still image noise performance and dynamic range under lighting conditions of LV (Light Value) 2 or lower.

³Limited to still images.

⁴Comparison with Xperia 1 VII.

⁵This feature may not be available under certain shooting conditions or settings, including continuous shooting or RAW capture.

⁶Colour availability may vary by market, variant or sales channel

⁷The test assumes a usage scenario based on standard battery usage profile of Xperia^TM users, where internet browsing, video viewing, gaming, and other functions are used for 360 minutes per day (with 1080 minutes of standby time). This indicates that the battery will last 48 hours of use. Actual battery life may vary depending on usage conditions and environment.

⁸Snapdragon and Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Snapdragon is a trademark of registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.

⁹The effect of power consumption reduction may vary depending on the type of app, its state, and the content being displayed.

¹⁰Sold Separately.

Pricing and Availability

The Xperia 1 VIII will be available for ordering from 13-May 2026. Please check with your nearest local Sony Stores for availability and prices.

Early Bird Promotion: 13 May – 30 June 2026

Free WF-1000XM6 Noise Cancelling Headphones (worth $479) and first party casing (worth $50) 

For detailed product information, please visit: https://www.sony.com.sg/smartphones/products/xperia-1m8