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Sony announces trio of Xperia X smartphones, two with high camera specs incl. predictive focus [Video]

Sony has unveiled three new Xperia phones, known as the X-series. The entry-level device is the XA, with a MediaTek MT6755 processor rather than a Snapdragon chip. With a 720p display and 16GB storage, Sony’s description of it as a “super mid-range” device seems to be pushing it, though you do get 2GB RAM and 13MP/8MP cameras.

The standard X gets much better specs and should make photography fans happy. It boasts a Snapdragon 650 processor with 3GB of RAM plus 32GB of storage. The display is a good if unexceptional 5-inch 1080p one, but the standout element here is the camera combo. The X gets the same 23MP rear camera as in the Z5 (though with improved firmware) and a 13MP front camera Sony says offers 6400ISO for ultra-capable low-light performance – and a new predictive auto-focus that can track a moving object in the frame … 

Topping the range is the Xperia X Performance, which swaps out the Snapdragon 650 for Qualcomm’s top-end Snapdragon 820 chip. Sony claims two-day battery-life for all three models.

Additionally, Sony announced its Xperia Ear accessory that we told you about yesterday. The device, much like the Moto Hint, is a standalone earpiece that connects to your phone via Bluetooth and allows you to use your voice to send text messages, get directions, check your calendar, and more.

Sony was showing off the XA, X, and X Performance units at Mobile World Congress, with which our won Cam Bunton will be getting hands-on time later today. For now, Sony has posted 3 promo videos to its YouTube channel, which you can find embedded below.

Unfortunately you’re going to have to wait a while if you want one: Sony says that they won’t be available until sometime in the summer. There’s no word on pricing, but if history is any judge, expect them to be at the upper end of what you might expect from the specs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6hllDE7VJg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtUBeFiWi8Q

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRwBDRtRfQ8

Press release below.

Barcelona, Mobile World Congress, 22nd February 2016 – Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today unveiled a new-look XperiaTM brand with the first “X” series smartphones and a vision for the future of communications, with ambient connected devices capable of changing the way you interact with the world.

“Sony Mobile will continue to create increasingly personalised and intelligent products and services that empower you to do more, and live more creatively than ever. Our products and services will connect you to each other and become essential and beloved parts of your lives.” said Hiroki Totoki, President and CEO at Sony Mobile Communications.

“With our continued passion for technology, we will keep adding new and exciting features to evolve our smartphones. At the same time, we want to change how you access information and interact with friends and family in a closer, natural and more meaningful way.”

First “X” Series smartphones: Xperia X, Xperia X Performance and Xperia XA

The Xperia X series embodies Sony Mobile’s new brand vision through adding new layers of intelligent technology across popular and acclaimed Xperia features: camera, battery and design, to make every day smarter and simpler.

Predicting the unexpected is difficult, but not impossible – the next generation Xperia camera takes spontaneous capture to another level allowing you to shoot in sharp focus, even for spur-of-the-moment shots. The all-new Predictive Hybrid Autofocus in Xperia X and Xperia X Performance is developed in close collaboration with Sony’s αTM camera engineers, it lets you choose your subject and then predicts its motion, so you can capture the action in perfect focus, free from blur.

Advanced features require the battery stamina to match, and Xperia X series incorporates Sony’s smart battery management to deliver up to two days battery life1. Not only will it keep your phone running for longer from one charge, Xperia X series benefits from a battery lifespan that’s up to twice as long with Qnovo’s Adaptive Charging technology2 and Sony’s smart battery management system. Each phone is powered to make the most of their advanced capabilities, with Xperia X featuring the Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 650 processor and Xperia X Performance introducing the Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 820 processor for ultra-fast connectivity.

As part of their unified design concept, Sony designers researched premium materials, texture and curvature for the most natural palm fit. Each X series smartphone brings a curved glass display within a rounded, continuous frame for a familiar form that feels comfortable in your hand. The unified design concept is also extended to Xperia XA, which features a stunning edge-to- edge display to integrate seamlessly into your life.

Xperia X, Xperia X Performance and Xperia XA each have a range of matching Style Covers and will roll out in four elegant finishes; White, Graphite Black, Lime Gold and Rose Gold, from Summer 2016.

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