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Sony Xperia X1 in a nutshell: Specs, UK price and release date

The Sony Xperia X1 is an upgraded version of the original Xperia X smartphone, set to be launched at the tail end of August. Leaks have already revealed some of the Xperia X1’s details and here’s what we know so far about the specs and UK release information.

The Xperia X is over a year old now and was quite a solid device at the time, although it was quickly eclipsed by the likes of the OnePlus 3T and Huawei’s Honor handsets. After all, as we stated in our Xperia X long-term review, this handset was held back by quite limited performance and average battery life. A real shame, as we liked the compact design, capable camera and gorgeous visuals.

Sony is apparently having another stab at a lower-cost premium device in August 2017, with the launch of the Xperia X1. So far the leaks sound quite promising, and we should be getting our hands on this mobile very soon to give it a thorough going over.

Why is it called the Xperia X1 and not the Xperia X2?

At the end of 2016 we were already hearing rumours about a new Xperia X device, which we logically thought would be called the Xperia X2. However, months passed and we heard nothing more, assuming that the handset was dead before it even launched.

However, Sony is expected to launch three new devices at IFA 2017 on August 31: the Xperia XZ1 flagship, the smaller Xperia XZ1 Compact, and the Xperia X1.

This may seem like strange naming convention, simply adding a ‘1’ on to the end of existing Xperia models. However, this actually follows the trend that Sony Mobile has set in 2017. After all, earlier in the year we saw the launch of the Xperia XA1, which was a sequel to the Xperia XA from 2016. Sony also released the Xperia XA1 Ultra at the same time.

Perhaps next year we’ll see the likes of the Xperia XZ2, Xperia X2 and Xperia XA2. For now, it’s number one all the way, baby.

Sony Xperia X1 leaks so far

The Xperia X1 will apparently pack a 5-inch Full HD IPS display, just like the Xperia X before it. No massive surprise there, then. That’s the same specs that were leaked for the supposed Xperia X2, back in the day.

However, one thing that has changed since those early leaks is the processor powering the phone. Rumours reveal that Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 660 chipset will be on board, rather than the Helio P20 originally expected. That’s good news for sure, as the 660 offers solid performance (according to early benchmarking tests), excellent energy efficiency, faster battery charging times and faster LTE connectivity also.

With 4GB of memory in support, we’re expecting smooth everyday performance from the Xperia X1. You should be able to play the latest games too, although only time will tell if you’ll get the same slick experience over time.

A 2800mAh battery is said to be packed inside the new handset, which will hopefully provide at least a day of battery life between charges. The 660 is said to be a slow drainer, so here’s hoping the X1 will go for longer than last year’s model. You can also expect Quick Charge support (hopefully version 4.0).

The Xperia X1 should once again boast an edge-mounted fingerprint sensor and most likely a sleek metallic body, which will hopefully prove just as rugged as the original Xperia X’s. So far there’s no word on the camera tech however, although you can expect a great everyday snapper that can capture detail-packed photos.

Sony Xperia X1 UK price and release date

Rumours point to the Xperia X1 being launched at IFA 2017, on Thursday August 31. You can therefore expect the phone to be released in the UK in September, although we’re not sure what asking price to expect.

The original Xperia X cost £449, although we’re hoping that Sony opts for a more affordable cost. After all, the OnePlus 5 costs from £449 and offers seriously premium specs in return, while the excellent Honor 9 is even cheaper at £380.

Check out our pick of the best Sony phones right now, to see which Xperia phones get us hot under the collar.

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