A couple of months ago, Sony announced their latest flagship phone, the Xperia 1 VI. But it looks like the rumor mill isn’t taking a break as potential camera specs for the Xperia 1 VII have since made their way online.
This is according to a post on Weibo where a tipster claims that Sony could increase the sensor size for its next flagship. For context, the current sensor size on the Xperia 1 VI is 1/3.5-inches. The report claims that Sony could increase it further to 1/2.3-inch for both the telephoto and ultrawide cameras. The main sensor is expected to retain the same 1/1.3-inch size.
We find this a little odd. Sony kind of pioneered the 1-inch sensor for smartphone cameras. We know that fitting a 1-inch sensor into a phone is entirely possible. In fact, Xiaomi actually worked with Sony on the Xiaomi 12S Ultra. It is possible that maybe Xiaomi has some kind of exclusive deal with Sony, but it does feel strange Sony isn’t jumping at the chance to fit a larger sensor into its phones.
Sensor size plays an important role in photos. A larger sensor can capture more light, which means more detailed photos and dynamics. We would much prefer seeing larger sensors than higher megapixels if given a choice. In any case, take this with a grain of salt for now as we’re still a long ways to go from Sony announcing the Xperia 1 VII.