Tag: sony

  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Specs and Rumored Pricing: What to Expect

    Sony Xperia 1 VII Specs and Rumored Pricing: What to Expect

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony may announce the Xperia 1 VII release date in May or June, with upcoming credible information expected soon.
    2. Unofficial specifications suggest an upgrade to a 4K display and a new Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, with potential for 16 GB of RAM.
    3. The main camera setup will likely stay the same, but improvements in the ultrawide lens and telephoto zoom range are anticipated.
    4. The rumored launch price for the Xperia 1 VII is $1,399, reflecting a similar pricing strategy to the Xperia 1 VI.
    5. Key features like the SD card slot and 3.5 mm audio jack are expected to remain, with designs likely staying similar to the Xperia 1 VI.


    There are some rumors that Sony could reveal the release date for the Xperia 1 VII in May or June, so we can expect some credible information about the smartphone to surface soon. For now, various sources are sharing a mix of reliable and obviously false data regarding the Xperia 1 Mark 7. An account on Threads named oneilygadget, which also has a presence on X, has shared what they called a “leak” of specifications for the Sony Xperia 1 VII, but it’s been acknowledged that this is based on speculation and existing reports rather than genuine leaks. Nevertheless, it’s interesting to see the current expectations for the 2025 Xperia 1.

    Expected Changes in Specs

    The alleged differences in the unofficial specifications list for the Sony Xperia 1 VII compared to the Xperia 1 VI align with what one might anticipate with a new version. The display is said to upgrade from FHD+ to 4K, and a new processor is expected, likely the Snapdragon 8 Elite. There may also be an option for 16 GB of RAM, while the front camera, battery, and wired charging appear to remain unchanged. The main camera setup maintains the same resolutions, but it features a 1/2.3” ultrawide lens (which might be a typo for 1/2.5”?) and an improved telephoto lens zoom range of 70-200 mm, compared to the Xperia 1 VI’s 85-170 mm.

    Pricing and Launch Speculations

    A launch in May is suggested, with a rumored price tag of $1,399 for the Sony Xperia 1 VII, which implies a potentially optimistic launch in the US. For context, the Xperia 1 VI, which is currently available on Amazon, launched at prices starting from £1,299/€1,399. There has also been talk of a 200 MP sensor, but it would be quite unusual for Sony to include this in the Xperia 1 series. On China’s Weibo, someone seems to have tried to leak an image of the Xperia 1 VII encased, but the wallpaper design is identical to the official one used for the Xperia 1 VI – and typically, Sony changes these designs between models. However, the indication is clear – we are likely to see mostly similar features, which means important elements like the SD card slot and the 3.5 mm audio jack will probably still be included.

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  • Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: AI Call Clarity & Noise Cancellation for $119.99

    Sony WF-C710N Earbuds: AI Call Clarity & Noise Cancellation for $119.99

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has launched the WF-C710N mid-range wireless earbuds, available for pre-order in four colors: Glass Blue, Pink, White, and Black.
    2. Key features include Dual Noise Sensor technology, customizable ambient sound settings, and Adaptive Sound Control for optimized audio based on location and activity.
    3. The earbuds are equipped with 5mm drivers, Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), and EQ Custom for personalized sound profiles.
    4. They offer up to 30 hours of battery life with quick charging options and include touch controls, Instant Pause/Play, and IPX4 water resistance.
    5. The WF-C710N is priced at $119.99 USD ($169.99 CAD) and can be pre-ordered through Sony’s website, Amazon, and select retailers.


    Sony Electronics Inc. has launched its latest mid-range wireless earbuds, the WF-C710N. These earbuds are now available for pre-order and come in four stylish colors: Glass Blue, Pink, White, and Black. They are designed to offer essential features like noise cancellation, an extended battery life, and high-quality call clarity, all packed in a compact form.

    Key Features

    The WF-C710N earbuds utilize Dual Noise Sensor technology, featuring two microphones that help minimize background noise. Users can customize the ambient sound settings via the Sony Sound Connect app, which provides 20 adjustable levels or allows for voice passthrough. The Adaptive Sound Control automatically alters audio settings based on the user’s location and activity, remembering frequently visited spots such as offices or gyms. Additionally, the AI-driven Precise Voice Pickup Technology, developed using over 500 million voice samples, enhances speech isolation and reduces unwanted noise during calls.

    Design and Performance

    Each earbud is outfitted with a 5mm driver and includes support for the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), which enhances the quality of compressed audio files. The app also features EQ Custom, enabling users to tailor sound profiles to their liking. Weighing very little, the WF-C710N boasts an IPX4 water-resistant design. The earbuds come with a cylindrical case and incorporate touch controls for music playback, calls, and volume adjustments. When used with the charging case, these earbuds can provide up to 30 hours of total battery life. A quick five-minute charge is enough for 60 minutes of playback. Other handy features include Instant Pause/Play and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can pre-order the WF-C710N through Sony’s website, Amazon, and select authorized retailers. The price is set at $119.99 USD ($169.99 CAD).

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  • Sony Launches Updated Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

    Sony Launches Updated Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has updated its WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N over-ear headphone models with new color options.
    2. The WH-CH720N now includes a muted pastel pink variant, bringing its total color options to four.
    3. The WH-CH520 has added a second soft, muted yellow shade, increasing its color options from four to six.
    4. The pricing for both headphone models remains unchanged: WH-CH720N at $88.74 and WH-CH520 at $59.99.
    5. New color choices for both models are available for pre-order globally, with deliveries expected soon.


    Sony has updated two of its over-ear headphone models, just a bit over a month after news of their upcoming release surfaced online. The refreshed WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N are now available, together with the new WF-C710N. For further information on Sony’s recent TWS earbuds, check out our dedicated launch article.

    New Color Options

    To summarize, The Walkman Blog disclosed that Sony would introduce a pink variant for the WH-CH720N (currently priced at $88.74 on Amazon), which is now officially launched. In response to the “increasing demand for soft, muted tones,” the addition of this “muted pastel pink” makes the total color options for the WH-CH720N four. It’s worth noting that the pink version has the same hardware as the other three existing color choices.

    Pricing Remains the Same

    The WH-CH520 follows a similar pattern, keeping its MSRP at $59.99. However, its color palette has increased from four to six, thanks to the introduction of a second “soft, muted yellow” shade. Sony has also mentioned a new color called “Espresso” for the WH-CH520, but this is only available in Canada. All of the new color choices should be up for pre-order globally starting today. Deliveries are expected to commence either this weekend or early next week.

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  • Sony Launches New RGB LEDs for Monitors with 4,000 Nits Brightness

    Sony Launches New RGB LEDs for Monitors with 4,000 Nits Brightness

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony introduces a new display technology using RGB LEDs instead of traditional mini-LED backlights, aimed at reducing production costs.
    2. The RGB LEDs provide a wider color gamut, achieving 99% coverage of DCI-P3 and 90% of BT.2020 color spaces, improving color accuracy and transitions.
    3. The technology boasts peak HDR brightness over 4,000 nits and a 96-bit color depth, offering better detail in both bright and dark areas compared to OLED displays.
    4. Enhanced processing capabilities allow for quicker local dimming adjustments, with improvements made in collaboration with MediaTek.
    5. Initial products featuring this RGB LED backlight are expected to enter mass production by 2025, targeting professional monitors for content creators.


    Sony has today revealed a groundbreaking display technology that swaps out the traditional mini-LED backlight for RGB LEDs. This new backlight will still work in conjunction with an LCD panel, instead of using individual LEDs for each pixel like microLED screens do. This innovative method is expected to greatly lower production expenses.

    Improved Color Performance

    When put next to a standard mini-LED screen, these RGB LEDs are claimed to offer a much broader color gamut, as Sony mentions achieving 99% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space and 90% of the BT.2020 color space. The brightness and color of the LEDs are fine-tuned according to the content on the screen, making it possible to display even the most subtle color transitions without noticeable banding.

    Enhanced Brightness and Detail

    Additionally, Sony is boasting that this new technology will deliver the highest color intensity of any display they have created, with a peak HDR brightness exceeding 4,000 nits. The panel processes images at a color depth of 96-bit, promising that both very bright and very dark areas will be represented with remarkable detail. In fact, the panel is claimed to outperform OLED displays in this aspect. The processing capability has been enhanced, being twice that of Sony’s mini-LED monitors, which should result in much quicker local dimming adjustments. This related control module was developed in partnership with MediaTek.

    Future Products

    As per Sony, the first products featuring this innovative RGB LED backlight are set to go into mass production by 2025. These panels will likely debut in professional monitors aimed at content creators. However, Sony has not yet disclosed if or when consumer-friendly displays utilizing this technology will become available on the market.

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  • PS5 Astro Bot Bundle Available at Retailers – Great Deal Alert!

    PS5 Astro Bot Bundle Available at Retailers – Great Deal Alert!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony launched new PS5 bundles featuring the Astro Bot platformer, available in digital and disc formats.
    2. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition Astro Bot Bundle is priced at $399.99, and the disc version at $449.99, both offering a $50 discount.
    3. Purchasers receive a download voucher for Astro Bot instead of a physical game disc.
    4. The PS5 Slim Astro Bot Bundle does not include a unique design, special edition controller, or vertical stand.
    5. Previous pricing for the PS5 Digital Edition was $379.99, with Astro Bot priced at $59.99, making the bundle a good deal.


    Sony revealed fresh PS5 bundles earlier this week, featuring the highly praised Astro Bot platformer. The console is now available at various retailers in both digital and disc formats. Although the PS5’s price has not officially dropped, these new bundles provide a chance for customers to save some cash. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition Astro Bot Bundle is priced at $399.99 at Best Buy, while the disc version comes in at $449.99. This represents a significant discount of $50 from the original retail price of both consoles.

    Game Access and Features

    As is common with many modern console bundles, purchasers won’t get a physical game disc, even with the disc version. Instead, Sony has chosen to include a voucher for downloading Astro Bot from the PlayStation store. Unlike Astro’s Playroom, which is also part of the bundle, Astro Bot is much more than just a tech demo. It highlights the enhanced haptic feedback of the DualSense controller and features smartly crafted levels.

    Console Design and Accessories

    With the gaming industry shifting towards a digital future, it’s reassuring to see Sony continue to offer new versions of the disc-based PS5. However, the PS5 Slim Astro Bot Bundle lacks a unique design and doesn’t include the special edition Astro Bot controller. Additionally, buyers will not receive a vertical stand, as Sony has decided to eliminate that accessory with the slimmer models. Both the digital and disc versions come with one controller and 1 TB of storage.

    Pricing Comparisons

    The PS5 Digital Edition was previously available for $379.99 in December, and a similar deal might attract more buyers. Nevertheless, Astro Bot is priced at $59.99, making this new PS5 bundle offer a worthwhile option to think about. Furthermore, with the struggling Xbox Series X not readily available in certain areas, Sony has little reason to lower its prices in comparison to its Microsoft competitor.

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  • Sony Launches Last of Us Limited Edition DualSense Controller

    Sony Launches Last of Us Limited Edition DualSense Controller

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has launched a Limited Edition DualSense controller for The Last of Us, priced at $84.99, to celebrate the franchise’s history.
    2. The controller features unique symbols: a firefly, a moth, and a wolf, representing key elements from both The Last of Us Part I and Part II.
    3. Pre-orders start on March 14, 2025, with shipments beginning on April 10, 2025, coinciding with the release of The Last of Us Part II Remastered.
    4. The design includes white joysticks and buttons against a black back, prominently displaying the game’s title and Sony logo.
    5. Limited quantities of the controller will be available through PlayStation Direct and select retailers.


    Sony has launched a Limited Edition DualSense wireless controller for The Last of Us, created in collaboration with Naughty Dog, to celebrate the franchise’s incredible history. The controller is priced at $84.99 (€84.99/£74.99) and features black gloss trophy icons that showcase symbols from both The Last of Us Part I and Part II. Pre-orders will begin on March 14, 2025, via PlayStation Direct and other retailers, with shipments set to start on April 10, 2025.

    Unique Design Elements

    This controller showcases three distinct symbols: a firefly (symbolizing the rebel group from Part I), a moth, and a wolf (which relate to the journeys of Ellie and Abby in Part II). Neil Druckmann, the Head of Studio at Naughty Dog, stated, “We tried to pay tribute to both games through significant visuals.” Graphic Designer Megan Mehran added that the icons “embody the emotional essence of the series.”

    Release Dates and Events

    The release of this controller aligns with the PC debut of The Last of Us Part II Remastered on April 3, 2025 (available on Steam and Epic Games Store) and the premiere of HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2 on April 13, 2025. It also features white joysticks, a white PlayStation logo, and white trigger and shoulder buttons, which contrasts sharply with the entirely black back that displays the game’s title and Sony logo in white. Notably, the large text is more eye-catching than the rest of the design elements.

    Purchase Information

    This controller is offered in limited quantities, costing $84.99 in the US, €84.99 in Europe, and £74.99 in the UK. Pre-orders will commence on March 14 at 10 AM local time (7 AM PT in the US) through PlayStation Direct and selected retailers. It will be accessible for general sale beginning April 10, 2025.

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  • Sony PS5 Beta Program Streamlines Game and Firmware Testing

    Sony PS5 Beta Program Streamlines Game and Firmware Testing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Centralized Beta Registration: Players will register once on the PlayStation Beta website for all upcoming beta programs.

    2. Wide Application: The new system includes beta tests for PlayStation 5 games, PC titles from Sony, and early access to new features in the PlayStation mobile app and PS5 OS.

    3. Invitation Process: Registering does not guarantee an invitation; players can indicate interest in specific games and choose whether to participate if invited.

    4. Voluntary Participation: Joining the beta program is free and voluntary, with no obligation for participants.

    5. Feedback and Reversion: Testers are encouraged to provide feedback and report issues; they can revert to the previous stable firmware version if needed.


    Sony has unveiled a new beta program for the PlayStation 5 through the PlayStation Blog, aiming to streamline all upcoming beta programs. Previously, users had to sign up separately for each game’s beta testing and system updates. Going forward, participants will only need to register once on the official PlayStation Beta website.

    Centralized Registration for Betas

    This new system will establish a single hub where gamers can show their interest in all beta tests and sign up easily. This applies not just to PlayStation 5 titles but also to games on PC from Sony, as well as early access to new features in the PlayStation mobile app and the PS5 operating system. Joining the beta program is free; the only requirement is an active PlayStation account that hasn’t had any issues in the past.

    Invitation Process and Feedback

    As is common with beta programs, there’s no guarantee that those who register will receive an invitation to test various games. Gamers can indicate which games they’re interested in, and upon receiving an invite, they can choose whether to participate. Joining the beta is entirely voluntary, free, and without obligation in all situations.

    Sony encourages beta testers to give feedback on the games they try out and to report any bugs or performance issues so that these can be addressed before the official release. For those testing a beta version of a firmware update for the PlayStation 5, there’s an option to revert back to the previous stable version at any moment if the beta version has serious errors.

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  • New Sony WH-1000XM6 Wireless Headphones Leak Details

    New Sony WH-1000XM6 Wireless Headphones Leak Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has delayed the release of the WH-1000XM6, creating a three-year gap since the WH-1000XM5.
    2. The WH-1000X series release is planned to sync with the WF-1000X in-ear headphones, but no news on the WF-1000XM6 has been announced.
    3. The WH-1000XM6 has been spotted online with model number YY2984, indicating an upcoming launch.
    4. The headphones will support 2.4 GHz Bluetooth and come in three color options: Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
    5. Additional specifications for the WH-1000XM6 remain unclear, and Sony may update other over-ear headphones before the WH-1000XM6 launch.


    The WH-1000XM6 has taken a while to arrive. In the past, Sony has usually waited about two years to release a new version of the WH-1000X. However, this time, it looks like there might be a three-year gap between the WH-1000XM5 (currently priced at $398 on Amazon) and its upcoming successor.

    Delayed Releases

    It seems that Sony has put the WH-1000X series on hold so they can sync its launch with that of the WF-1000X in-ear headphones. However, there’s no news yet about a WF-1000XM6, unlike the WH-1000XM6.

    Recently, The Walkman Blog has spotted the WH-1000XM6 appearing online. This time, the headphones have made their way to importers, who refer to them by their model number YY2984.

    Specifications Revealed

    As expected, the listing shows features like 2.4 GHz Bluetooth support, which aligns with what people anticipated. Furthermore, the import details suggest that Sony will offer three color choices at launch, labeled BM, LM, and SM for Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue, respectively. Other specifications are still unclear for now, but it’s possible that Sony will update other over-ear headphones before focusing on the WH-1000XM6.

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  • Sony Cuts PSVR 2 Price, Competes with Meta Quest 3

    Sony Cuts PSVR 2 Price, Competes with Meta Quest 3

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation VR2 headset’s price has been permanently reduced from $549.99 to $399.99, effective March.
    2. The PSVR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain Bundle is now priced at $399.99, matching the standard version and effectively offering a free game.
    3. The new pricing makes the PSVR2 more affordable than the Meta Quest 3, which is priced at $499.99.
    4. Sony’s price reduction aims to boost sales after previous reports of disappointing figures and halted production.
    5. While the headset’s price has dropped, the PSVR2 PC Adapter and PSVR2 Sense Controller prices remain unchanged at $59.99 and $49.99, respectively.


    It’s been several years since Sony unveiled the PlayStation VR 2 headset for the PS5 console. Launched at a price of $549.99, this VR headset offers significant improvements over the original version designed for the PS4. Recently, Sony has revealed a permanent price reduction for this device.

    New Pricing Announcement

    Starting in March, the PSVR2 will be available for $399.99, which is a massive $150 reduction from its initial launch price. This makes it more affordable than the Meta Quest 3, which can be found on Amazon for $499.99. In Europe, the new price will be €449.99, while in the UK it will be £399.99, and in Japan, it will cost ¥66,980. Additionally, Sony has lowered the price on the PlayStation VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain Bundle.

    Bundle Pricing Details

    Previously priced at $599.99, this bundle includes a voucher for Horizon Call of the Mountain along with a PS VR2 Sense controller and stereo headphones. The new price will be set at $399.99 in the US, £399.99 in the UK, €449.99 in Europe, and ¥66,980 in Japan. This means that the bundle is now offered at the same price as the standard version, essentially providing the headset along with a free game.

    Market Impact and Compatibility Issues

    Earlier last year, there were reports indicating that Sony had halted production of the PSVR2 due to disappointing sales figures. With the new pricing strategy, those who were previously hesitant about the VR headset may now feel more encouraged to buy it.

    Upon its initial release, the PSVR2 faced criticism for its lack of backward compatibility with older PSVR titles, a limited selection of games, and no PC support. However, the game library has expanded, and PC compatibility is now available, although users must buy a specific adapter to connect the headset to their computers.

    Although the price of the headset itself has dropped, the PSVR2 PC Adapter and PSVR2 Sense Controller remain at their original prices of $59.99 and $49.99, respectively.

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  • New Sony Wireless Over-Ear Headphones Details Leaked

    New Sony Wireless Over-Ear Headphones Details Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is preparing to launch new audio gear, specifically the WF-C710N and WH-1000XM6 models.
    2. The WF-C710N is expected to be released before the WH-1000XM5, which is currently priced at $328 on Amazon.
    3. Updates for the WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N may be unveiled before the WH-1000XM6 launch, with retail images already published.
    4. The WH-CH720N will soon have a fourth color option, while the WH-CH520 will have six options, including a new light pink and a light yellow exclusive to the WH-CH520.
    5. The Walkman Blog provides credible information on these upcoming Sony audio devices, hinting at imminent releases.


    It’s well-known that Sony is working on new audio gear for consumers. Recently, the company has been seen preparing the WF-C710N and WH-1000XM6 models. From what we’ve learned so far, it appears the WF-C710N will be released before Sony rolls out the WH-1000XM5 (currently priced at $328 on Amazon).

    Upcoming Model Refreshes

    There’s a chance that Sony could also unveil updates for the WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N prior to the WH-1000XM6 launch. So far, there haven’t been any retail images for the WH-1000XM6. However, The Walkman Blog has published images of the unreleased WH-CH520 and WH-CH720N, which we have included throughout this article.

    Color Options Changing

    As of now, Sony offers the WH-CH720N in four colors and the WH-CH520 in three. The Walkman Blog reports that this will change soon, with the WH-CH720N getting a fourth color, while the WH-CH520 will boast six options. Notably, both will feature a new pink color that is lighter than the Smoky Pink seen in the WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM5 released last year.

    In addition, the WH-CH520 will get a light yellow option that won’t be available for the WH-CH720N. However, there hasn’t been any news about when these products will be launched or their pricing. Nonetheless, the appearance of credible product photos suggests that these updates are likely to be released soon, unlike the WH-1000XM6.

    Conclusion

    The Walkman Blog has been a valuable source of information regarding these new Sony audio devices. With the imminent release of the WF-C710N and potential updates to the WH-CH series, consumers can look forward to exciting new options in the near future.

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