Sony announces Xperia Z1 Compact

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Sony’s Xperia Z1 Compact made its official debut today, January 6, 2014 at the 2014 International Consumer . Previously rumored as the Xperia Z1 mini it’s a 4.3-inch version of Sony’s flagship smartphone the Xperia Z1. 

Among similarly-sized smartphones, nothing comes close to the Z1 Compact. The water-resistant phone runs off a 2.2 GHz quad core Snapdragon 800 processor, 2GB of RAM, and a 20.7 megapixel camera. But impressive spec sheet aside, what’s most notable about the Z1 Compact is Sony’s approach to “mini”.  

Sony is of the belief that while some users want smaller smartphones it doesn’t mean they want a phone with less superior specs. “Smartphone X” mini doesn’t have to be a lesser version of “Smartphone X” just a small version of it.

And so the Xperia Z1 Compact is in every sense the Xperia Z1 but with a smaller 4.3-inch display (vs a 5-inch one), “designed for those who want a ‘mini’ size but without compromising on the flagship features including.”

These flagship features include Sony’s G’ Lens with a 1/2.3-type CMOS image sensor and a Triluminous HD display that shares technology with Sony’s BRAVIA TV. The phone is also dust-resistant and waterproof.

On the outside the Z1 Compact feels sturdy and premium made from a solid unibody aluminum frame. Port covers for the micro USB, SIM card and microSD card slots are retrofitted with rubber stoppers to prevent dust/water from getting in. It’s 2300 mAh battery is non-user replaceable.  

The device measures 127 x 64.9 x 9.5 mm. Side by side the Apple’s iPhone 5/5S the phone is just slightly taller.

Available in the regular black and white and in two new additional colors, pink and yellow the Xperia Z1 Compact launches globally starting February 2014. – Rappler.com