It is now available for pre-order for $1,000, which includes a free set of WF-1000XM4 headphones.
Sony has unveiled a smartphone with gaming and photo capabilities that is (a little) less expensive than its previous models. The Xperia 5 IV features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Mobile Platform and a 120Hz 6.1-inch 21:9 OLED display, as well as photo features similar to the Xperia 1 IV flagship, such as real-time eye AF and real-time tracking on all three rear cameras.
Sony is positioning the Xperia 5 IV as a content creation device, capitalising on its strong reputation in photography with models such as the Alpha A7 IV. To that end, it has four 12-megapixel cameras: three on the back (a 16mm 1/2.5-inch f/2.2 ultra-wide, a 24mm f/1.7 1/1.7-inch wide, and a 60mm f/2.4 1/3.5-inch portrait) and one on the front for selfies (1/2.9-inch).
Real-time eye AF ensures that your subjects’ eyes, not their nose, remain in focus, and the real-time AI-powered tracking feature keeps fast-moving subjects in focus. All lenses can shoot at 20 frames per second with AF and auto exposure. The main camera’s relatively large pixels (1.9 microns) should also allow for decent low-light shooting.
All three rear sensors have read-out speeds of 120fps, allowing you to record 4K HDR at up to 120fps. Sony also promises 4K HDR with “outstanding contrast grading” and the ability to take selfies or vlog in low-light conditions. It includes the Videography Pro feature, which, like the Xperia I IV, allows you to livestream your content to YouTube and other streaming services.
The screen appears to be adequate for creators as well. It supports HDR10 (but not Dolby Vision) and is said to be 50% brighter than the previous model. It also has “Real Time HDR Drive,” which can improve image quality by filling in details on overexposed and underexposed shots. Users of Bravia Core will also have access to Sony’s latest releases as well as classic films.
On the gaming front, the 120Hz display should allow for smooth gameplay, and the 240Hz touch scanning rate should allow for quick inputs. The Plus Game Enhancer allows you to customise the picture and sound, and it includes live streaming on Sony’s Social Networking Service (SNS), as well as high-frame recording at up to 120 frames per second. You can use it to monitor real-time viewer comments and implement game commentary.
It supports Dolby Atmos and Sony’s 360 Reality audio, both through a wired 3.5mm jack and wireless Bluetooth LE. A 5,000mAh battery, 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and 5G capabilities are also included. The Xperia 5 IV will be available for $1,000 in black or green at the end of October 2022. If you pre-order starting today at 11 a.m. ET through Sony’s website or B&H Photo, you’ll be eligible for the WF-1000XM4 wireless earbuds, a $280 value.
