Sony Mobile has unveiled a redesigned version of its flagship Xperia phone – one that can record ultra HD video and vibrates along with audio on movies.
The Japanese tech giant said the new Xperia XZ2 was meant as an “immersive entertainment device”.
The new smartphone is also the world’s first to be able to capture video in 4K resolution and high dynamic range (HDR) – which produces brighter, more colourful images, Sony said.
The XZ2 includes what the company calls a Dynamic Vibration System, which vibrates along to the audio on videos and Sony says helps make watching movies more immersive.
The firm compared the experience to using its DualShock 4 PlayStation controller, which vibrates as users play.
The XZ2 was announced alongside a smaller XZ2 Compact version on the morning of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) gadget show in Barcelona.
The annual trade show brings together some of the world’s largest smartphone manufacturers and their latest products – including Samsung, which announced its new Galaxy S9 and S9+ on Sunday night.
Despite being a household name in electronics, Sony has struggled to gain a foothold in the smartphone market in recent years.
But the firm’s Hideyuki Furumi said by focusing on entertainment, the company hoped to draw in new customers.
(Martyn Landi/PA)
“If entertainment is your priority, then our new Xperia XZ2 and XZ2 Compact are your smartphones,” he said.
“From what’s inside – world-class technology, to a new sleek, sophisticated design, these smartphones are everything you need and probably a lot more.
“We have pushed Sony’s boundaries even further with our new products for movie recording, viewing, and music listening – offering entertainment to the extreme.”
The XZ2 will come with a 5.7-inch HDR Full HD+ display, with the XZ2 Compact sporting a 5-inch version.
The two new phones will go on display alongside hundreds of other devices as the four-day tech convention opens on Monday morning.