Packed with an impressive range of features, Sony’s Xperia Z Ultra is likely to hit U.K. shelves in September. While launching the device, Sony announced a global launch in Q3 2013, but didn’t specify a release date.
After the official announcement, Sony Netherland unveiled the European price as €719, which is about £610. U.K.’s largest mobile phone retailer Cardphone Warehouse listed the device on its website for prospective buyers to register, and expects it to release in September. Online retailer Clove also expects a September debut with a price tag of £599. U.K. retailer Three has also confirmed that it will offer the device and has asked interested consumers to register for the device.
Among the touted features, the Xperia Z Ultra flaunts a 6.4-inch Full HD screen, so it can be likened to a phablet capable of competing with Samsung Galaxy’s Note series and the Galaxy Mega. The display also features the “Triluminos” technology, which allows the incorporation of a broader range of rich natural colors. The water and dust resistant device calls itself the “slimmest and largest Full HD smartphone,” touting a thickness of 6.5 mm. It is also light, weighing 212 grams.
The Xperia Z Ultra is powered by a 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core chip, said to be the fastest smartphone processor. It has an 8MP camera featuring Sony’s Exmor RS sensor, which Sony claims is the first mobile image sensor with High Dynamic Range for pictures and videos. The front camera has a 2MP sensor. Another impressive feature is the Battery STAMINA Mode, a battery management technology that enhances standby time by at least four times.
Other features include the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS, 16GB storage, NFC and 4G LTE connectivity. The device will come in black, white and purple color variants. It seems to hold great prospects for Sony, which has been unveiling interesting devices, of late. The upcoming Sony SmartWatch 2 is another exciting device.