Sony Xperia 1 VI - This Is A Rant NOT A Review...

[@DalevonDigital-Photography]

Good rant. Sometimes I just don't understand these companies and the moves they make.

[@GroundedTech]

Thanks. It's dangerous for a company like Sony as they have few users as it is. I already want to go back to the previous phone lol

[@iluvcakes19]

My Song Xperia is complete junk. I've been waiting for the Pixel 9 Pro quite eagerly. But IDK.. I'll probably hold off a year and grab a Motorola Razr in the meantime. Can't deal with Sony's trash software anymore.

[@GroundedTech]

@iluvcakes19 which do you have?

[@iluvcakes19]

@@GroundedTech Xperia 5 IV

[@GroundedTech]

@iluvcakes19 ah well say no more... kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnm8qqKrjpqijJI

[@Tsinglung17]

There were many vocal reviewers and influencers on the internet who loves to complain about Sony Xperia. At the beginning they complained about the name being too long (which is really not), the screen is narrow, having three camera apps instead of just one etc.... And now, Sony changed everything to fit their taste, but those people those reviewers now can't even bothered to review the mark6 ! Speaking of apps, I really, really like the camera pro app. It makes you want to use the camera and it inspires creation. It was a big reason why I picked up the Xperia 1 ii. The new camera app on the mark iv, of course the features are still there, but it lacks the "flare". As you rightly put it, the camera app is so generic now and just look like any other phone. And when other phones were offering better hardware, it is even a harder sale to pick a Sony over other brand.

[@GroundedTech]

Exactly my thoughts. Appreciate the comment.

[@joelconolly5574]

Same. The Pro apps feels more focused. Now it's just too generic.

[@GroundedTech]

@joelconolly5574 they were more practical. Hoping they make some changes.

[@trustee1108]

​@@GroundedTech The ultimate solution to this is to have two variants released to meet the needs of the masses and niche. They could have released 1 vi and 1 vi pro the pro would continue from where the 1 v stopped and improve on it. This would help to keep them in the business much longer and to survive with the competition

[@GroundedTech]

@trustee1108 well they did have the Pro-I. Was kinda hoping for a sequel to that.

[@feistyfoxsecurity]

Having just spent three weeks on the move, and taking over 5200 photos with the Xperia 1 VI, there is noticeable improvement in the quality of the photos compared to the Xperia 1 V that I recently sold. So yes, I would have preferred to see some bigger sensors to talk about, but Sony have done something different in the config that makes the photos better. Even compared to the 1" sensor in my Vivo X100 pro and the Z60 Ultra, the photos I managed to get out of this phone are very impressive. Display is a lot better than the old 4K panel, more usable, content looks better, and it certainly helps to get that longevity - I have been able to get 3 -3.5 days off a single charge of low/moderate use and almost 2 days on heavy use - this is very impressive for a modern phone. Is it worth the money? An individual question only answerable by your own pocket - i buy about 5-8 phones a year, and this is 100% worth every cent. Sony did the right thing here, and I look forward to the software improvements making it even better until the VII gets released next June :)

[@GroundedTech]

Glad you're enjoying it so much. Telephoto is the main bug bear for me I think when it comes to photography. It's fine otherwise.

[@bloodytoad2010]

Had the phone for around a week plus. LOVE THE PHONE. For the camera application, I prefer it this new interface. The Photo pro app still has Alpha camera Function menu so its still great. For the display, I tried hard to squint 4K KZbin video comparison with my Xperia 1V, I can only see a really tiny bit of difference. I really prefer the brighter display especially Sunlight vision under sunny day. Difference in brightness comparison is really there. The 1VI also has Vapour Chamber which helps cool the phone even better, as well as UFS 4.0 compared to UFS 3.1 on the Xperia 1V. SD 8Gen3 is faster. Also love the telemacro which 1V did not have, and the 2X lossless. Its longer optical zoom also outperform the 1V. Longer battery life, better speakers. Better bluetooth through my WF-1000XM5 as well. So all in all, Its one step backward, many steps forward for me. What I preferred was the slimmer body of the 1V produces a better grip, other than that I'm not missing my Xperia 1V one bit.

[@GroundedTech]

Thanks for that. Really appreciate the comment. I feel rather underwhelmed for some reason. Can't put my finger on why. I have to say the 2x crop zoom is excellent. It's why I'm not rushing into a review. I need to gather my thoughts better. Thanks Bloodytoad.

[@JoeGillian0]

excuse me. how do you know for certain xperia 1 IV has ufs 3.1... it was a big hot topic some while ago

[@bloodytoad2010]

@@JoeGillian0 even the 1v houses UFS 3.1 so what do you think 1IV has chance of using UFS 4.0?

[@orangeyellow-me1pz]

​@@GroundedTechhumans just also like to be part of a group so be careful. You might just be getting influenced by others and the media. I'm not doubting the points you made in your video though.

[@GroundedTech]

@orangeyellow-me1pz I don't get influenced by the media. No need to when I own the phone myself. And I never try to be part of the group that's for sure. I'd be doing much better these days if I did 😅

[@Francisyrah]

So good to see an honest review!!! Amazing work! Enough of paid reviews by Sony. I really wanted to buy that phone

[@GroundedTech]

Not a review! Lol but thank you. The review itself will come in good time. I like to use phones for at least a few weeks before doing that. It's very difficult getting info you can trust that's for sure.

[@th3976]

​@@GroundedTechDid the camera, video, and photography apps on previous versions have monthly or annual subscription?

[@GroundedTech]

@th3976 no.

[@tsukai1276]

Enough paid reviews by Sony? Dude, where the hell you live? No famous reviewer have reviewed this phone or other Sony phones. Thats says enough about "paid reviews."

[@GroundedTech]

@tsukai1276 in all fairness it's not only famous reviewers that get paid to do reviews.

[@aag3752]

I really want this phone. But only if they put the video pro mode in with the update. I really hope they'll do that soon, that's what I'm waiting on! Great vid btw

[@GroundedTech]

Thanks. I'll have a review in the coming weeks, but yeah I feel the lack of the Pro apps is really killing my experience to the point I won't buy in future. Sony have really dropped the ball on this.

[@trustee1108]

The ultimate solution to this is to have two variants released to meet the needs of the masses and niche. They could have released 1 vi and 1 vi pro the pro would continue from where the 1 v stopped and improve on it. This would help to keep them in the business much longer and to survive with the competition

[@GroundedTech]

I think they just need another Pro-I model. But at the same time the 1 VI isn't going to appeal to normies.

[@trustee1108]

@@GroundedTech exactly

[@GroundedTech]

@trustee1108 hopefully they see sense.

[@trustee1108]

@@GroundedTech I hope they do

[@GroundedTech]

@trustee1108 🙏🏻

[@amusetech]

A great piece of video, mate! Sony seems to be a bit lost in what they really want to do. On one hand, they want to cater for a broader audience with their smartphones (hence the change of camera app, screen ratio, etc), but on the other hand they aren't able to deliver hardware+software that would justify the price for a common smartphone user. I think that if you have your niche, and cater for that niche, you don't have to be the best all-rounder to keep your clients. But once you try to appeal for a "standard user" and drop this one thing that made you special, you'll drown in the sea of other devices doing the same. "You'll either die as a hero, or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain", or something along those lines. 🤷‍♂

[@GroundedTech]

Absolutely. It happens with things like videogames too. They try and make their game "more appealing" by making it easier or increasingly simplistic, but that can turn off the core fan base who wanted a hard as nails and complicated game. They just never learn.

[@petesims]

I'm sorry I disagree, I moved to this from the pixel 8 pro and would say the Xperia is much better in every way. I put the screens side by side and would say the Sony looked better too

[@GroundedTech]

Compared to a Pixel 8 Pro which I also own I agree the Xperia is the better phone in almost every way. The screen is decent enough but there are far better out there. But that doesn't address my issues as someone who has used Xperia for several years now.

[@ThroughJermainesLens]

I agree, it feels at the moment more mainstream, and indeed, the periscope needed an improvement

[@GroundedTech]

They're determined to kill Xperia off it seems 😅

[@SpardasTechReviews]

The issue going down from 4k to 1080p isn't the resolution itself it's the pixel density. Even though the 1 III(the last Sony phone I had) was mostly at 1080p things looked more crisp than on a quad HD panel even. Plus you can size the text to fit even more of it on the screen

[@GroundedTech]

Yes I believe I mentioned that aspect. The screen is ok. It just isn't as good for looking at your 4K content etc.

[@_lisan_al_gaib]

i would welcome 1080p except for the fact that the downgrade is not reflected in the price

[@GroundedTech]

@_lisan_al_gaib indeed. It isn't a super high quality 1080p screen from what I can tell but it's extremely energy efficient.

[@lukastemberger]

Even more important than pixel density is pixel spacing. A 1080 screen can appear very sharp and indistinguishable from 4K at that size and distance. People are judging it by sticking their noses into it, but no one uses a phone like that. I'd prefer a longer battery life than bragging rights.

[@GroundedTech]

@lukastemberger I'm definitely not sticking my nose into it lol I'm no pixel peeper. It's fine for general use. It's more about the content you record and playback etc.

[@FAT8893]

I'm still bummed to see the loss of 21:9 screen. That is still a great screen for one-handed use and cinematic video binge. As for the camera, as much as I love the new longer tele cam, it desperately needs a bigger sensor. Sony used to do it before in the Mk3 Xperia 1/5. Also, I stick with the standalone Pro apps instead of the refreshed stock Camera app for the time being.

[@GroundedTech]

I want to keep an Xperia for video work so I may end up getting an Xperia 5 V.

[@DamianNocun]

not to mention that video recorded through VideoPro had better sound and better quality than recorded in basic mode.

[@GroundedTech]

Yeah I was super frustrated. Just recorded another video about the 1 VI as I just returned it.

[@DamianNocun]

@@GroundedTech me too. I just replaced it with Pixel 9 Pro and starting to test it.

[@GroundedTech]

@DamianNocun good choice. Was going to go that route but the smaller 9 Pro wasn't out. I'm on the Honor Magic V3.

[@richardanderson9926]

I must say as a first time Xperia user with the 1 VI, I absolutely love it. I understand why long time fans would be upset with some changes but I think perhaps the Xperia lineup was already in danger of dying which is why they made the decision to have some more 'mainstream' features like the display and camera app. They probably hope parity with other manufacturers can bring more customers. I'm on the other side of the fence where I like the Sony brand but previous Xperia's were too niche, now with the 1 VI 'average' consumers have another choice of handset. Just my opinion

[@GroundedTech]

I agree on the screen approach. I just wanted a higher resolution. In terms of the rest of it for those of us used to the previous camera apps they were simply better. There was already a basic mode for people to use. We've lost a lot of video functionality that I really hope gets added back in a way that works. Really glad you're enjoying it too. What did you change from?

[@richardanderson9926]

@@GroundedTech An iPhone 15 plus, I have an upgrade anytime plan with EE and soon as I started seeing the coverage on the 1 VI I knew now was the time for me try it and I think it's awesome. I think as a first time Xperia user I have a different perspective to those who have been long time fans.

[@MF_OXF]

I really want to try an Xperia but hearing your review it seems like I need to wait a year or two for them to figure things out both camera hardware wise and camera software wise. Great video Dan, I'd be very disappointed had I gotten this phone for its telephoto. In a world where Vivo, Xiaomi and Oppo exist and offer such great camera hardware, it's a shame to see Sony charging more for less

[@GroundedTech]

I'm hopeful next year will be that device. Software is more preferential I guess but it was so good before. The camera hardware just needs to get better.

[@fairygodbrother]

Everything you said is spot on to me as a 1IV owner. i was waiting in anticipation for this one to upgrade to. The wide angle and telephoto on mine are absolute shite. They are unusable in low light. Im waiting on the new pixel if not appealing ill go for a Xiaomi 14 ultra until xperia axtually upgrade. Its such a shame because like you, i prefer the photo style od the xperia. I sent back the s23 ultra due to the over saturated photos.

[@GroundedTech]

Phones worth checking out are definitely the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and a bit cheaper then OnePlus 12. I think Xperia will be much better next year but I think it's more of a video focused brand. With the VI I'm not really sure what their direction is anymore. Tbh I'd still have the S23 Ultra if the cameras weren't so bad. That phone was so nice to use.

[@danielkirk5660]

I had no choice other than to buy this as Samsung started removing essential features like sd card support from the s21 ultra onwards (I'm coming from a s20 ultra) plus a headphone jack is attractive to me. Not a massive photo buff but a blower that takes good pics is a bonus.

[@GroundedTech]

If it's everything you want besides the cameras then I can definitely see why it would be perfect for you. I was a bit harsh on the phone but stand by my issues. Released a new video earlier today about the 1 VI as well 👍🏻 Thanks for tuning in Daniel (best name 😏).

[@Serbofreak]

The price is simply too high compared to what the competition offers. If anyone walks into a store with 1300 bucks in their pocket, they will go for a safe choice, even if there is a hint of a possibility that Sony might offer something better.

[@GroundedTech]

Last year especially Sony offered something different. If it was of use to you then you might pay. This year they've removed a lot of what made it unique on the camera front or changed/simplified it. People buying iPhone or Galaxy aren't buying an Xperia anyway.

[@Serbofreak]

@@GroundedTech I've had the 1V, and I still use the 5ii daily. What killed it for me was the swap from proper oled panels to the Chinese made ones. They're not properly laminated and the rainbow effect is just absurd.

[@GroundedTech]

@Serbofreak Yeah I wasn't keen on the change either.

[@peterharwood5705]

I've been trying to understand Sony for over a decade with the Xperia phones they do one good thing and take two steps back but,charge top prices,ive the 1 iv, and i was going to upgrade to the 6 but i will definitely not be upgrading to the 6 at this price point.

[@GroundedTech]

The 1 IV is solid other than the overheating issues once you push it. The 1 VI would probably be a decent upgrade from that but the VII will definitely be the one to go for once the price drops a touch.

[@theSFCchannel]

Glad I stayed with my 1 V. I have given up with Xperias for the foreseeable future and purchasing an Alpha 6700

[@GroundedTech]

I still like using the phone tbf. I still find it useful. I did another video using the vlog monitor and testing the video recently.

[@theSFCchannel]

@@GroundedTech vlog monitor is awesome. I'll be using my Xperia though as a monitor for the camera

[@DilanThimira]

Great Video! I bought my Sony Xperia 1 VI 2 days ago and I luv it. 🙌🙂📸

[@GroundedTech]

Glad to hear it 👍🏻

[@rajeev_pr]

Nice video Dan, happy to see you here

[@GroundedTech]

Thanks man. I've been slacking the past month.

[@ArjunKoroth]

Improved production quality but there's a constant hissing sound. Overall great review (or rant lol). Sad to know that they removed the Pro apps.

[@GroundedTech]

Lol thanks. Yeah I don't know why there's a hissing sound when the camera app is open. Think it was there on the 1 V as well. Weird. Build quality just as good as last year tbh.

[@bernardcaillouet5565]

How would you compare the Sony Xperia 1 V to the 1 Vi? It is frustrating that Sony made this phone to appeal to a wider variety of consumers, and they don't offer it in the states. How does that make sense.

[@GroundedTech]

I don't understand their reasoning for dropping the US and I believe China. I think the V has the nicer feeling to it with the aspect ratio and the 120fps all the time. It just feels smoother. Otherwise the 1 VI is the better phone hands down apart from the camera software.

[@kyle1elyk]

My S10+ from 2019 has a better screen resolution... are there no better options with an SD card reader this year?

[@GroundedTech]

Tbf this has a much better screen than the S10+. There's more to these panels than resolution. If you're coming from that phone you'll find this to be very good all-round.

[@ScreenOnTimeYT]

I think a big part of it is being so undershelmed, knowing the device sony are capable of putting out there (like you say for the money). Its a nice phone and does everthing well but doesn't excite me much sadly.

[@GroundedTech]

Yeah I agree. I really liked the 1 V. This phone just needed to build on that but instead they made unnecessary changes whilst not changing the things that actually needed changing.

[@namelesssnitchy]

sony does need an external western company to make their software more user friendly. + keep the seperate pro apps. but to be expected with a new app tbh, they will improve in time.

[@GroundedTech]

Just seems like a weird step back with the software. We'll see how things are once the Android 15 camera update arrives.

[@namelesssnitchy]

@@GroundedTech yes true. Even though the cameras have always been a bit worse than the competition when it comes to quality.(Most of the time ) I would still choose sony just because headphone jack, sd card, magnificent splitscreen options( side sense) . Enough reason to choose sony over other brands. Im okee with a bit less camera quality.

[@GroundedTech]

@namelesssnitchy yeah they have in many respects but they made good use of it. The Exmor T sensor is very good. Putting one of those in the telephoto would have been excellent.

[@ruirpna]

Sony Xperia phones main problem is the price! The new app can be updated and will be for sure, with new features. Telephoto sensor and lens are weak and should have been updated, but Sony engeniers and Xperia team... well... They probably have a lot of those 12mpx sensors to sell...

[@cedeunmail]

The price? For the price you get more than any other smartphone give you.

[@GroundedTech]

@cedeunmail not really. I would have argued that last year but not this year.

[@cedeunmail]

@@GroundedTech the best battery of all, by far the best camera of all, by far the best audio components, the only premium smartphone with sd card slot and audio jack. For a price of an iPhone 15pro with 128gb. Really?

[@GroundedTech]

@cedeunmail this phone does not have he best camera of all. Far from it. Did you even watch the video? I had the iPhone 15 Pro and tbh if it wasn't for the minimum focus distance I'd be going back.

[@cedeunmail]

@@GroundedTech it depends how you evaluate a camera. For me it is the best. There is actually no competition for it. Tonality, sharpness, the Zeiss coating. And again the audio components and the battery make the phone perfect. All these components are expensive. Buy and use what you want mate

[@BLAMMOBA]

We love a good rant from our Dan!

[@GroundedTech]

Yeah you do.

[@davidbuchanan3374]

I have from new and still use my Huawei p40 pro. 4 years old and still captures amazing photos. Unfortunately an upgrade is called for mainly due to lack of updates now from Huawei but what to replace it with is a tough call for me. I photograph landscapes and I don't like Samsung as they seem over saturated /processed, Google's pixel has mixed report's and as for the other top flagship's about well they all have good and bad points. Camera's good video's rubbish or vice versa.. I'm torn between spending close to grand on a camera on a phone or just buying a decent 2nd hand camera lol just buy a dumb phone instead...

[@GroundedTech]

I've been in a similar mind tbh. I was thinking about camera and I do already have a Lumix G100, but the thing for me is that when I'm taking pictures it's often at random times when I wouldn't have a camera with me, so I always lean towards phone. The Xperia this year just isn't as good as it should be, partly hardware and software (my review is coming soon). If I were to buy a phone it would be either the Xiaomi 14 Ultra or an import like the Vivo X100 Ultra or Oppo Find X7 Ultra. There should be more options in the next few months so I would maybe wait and see what comes along.

[@davidbuchanan3374]

@@GroundedTech Thank you for your reply my friend. I thought I was the only one thinking this way lol. There's an amazing choice with phone's these day's and yes they all have awesome cameras attached to them but a £1k is a lot of money to put down on a phone that'll be outta date in 6 months. I honestly believe I maybe heading towards a compact camera like a Sony rx100 or similar. Easy to pocket and better quality photograph's. Less chance of it going out of date as quick as phones do.. Anyways best wishes to you and yours buddy 👍👍👍

[@GroundedTech]

@davidbuchanan3374 thank you very much. Appreciate that. Only thing I would add is that these massive camera phones coming along will last years. What I'm doing is running something as my daily driver phone like a Pixel or my incoming Moto Razr 50 and then having the other phone in the other pocket for photography. Will be importing something soon to see how that goes 😄

[@davidbuchanan3374]

@@GroundedTech 2 phone's eh! People will be thinking your a drug dealer lol 🤣😂👍👍👍 I see Google/Samsung etc giving Upto 5yrs updates that's brilliant but what will the camera's be like on new models then. Kinda defeats the purpose of holding on to a phone that long. Anyways I've time to decide on what I'll do. My wife said wait to see what Santa brings lol more new underwear and socks and no camera🤣😂. Best wishes again to ya buddy from the Giants Causeway here in Northern Ireland 👍👍👍

[@GroundedTech]

@davidbuchanan3374 haha well say now you expect a full frame camera for Christmas 😂 All the best to you too. If you ever do decide come back and let me know, but I may have some phones you'll be interested in over the next few months 👍🏻

[@RedstoneinventeArmoredGuy]

Agreed, keep the 3 apps, and have this as a 4th one

[@JoeGillian0]

i have the 4th app on my Xperia 1 V, seems to work well as well despite i cannnot launch it with the power / shutter buttons

[@GroundedTech]

@JoeGillian0 yeah the annoying thing is the three apps from last year don't work on the 1 VI. I installed Videography Pro and the UI didn't fit properly.

[@user-ru8vp5ch7y]

HI really enjoyed your review and agree with your camera comments. Can you give me the heads up about the rattle which appears to come from within the phone when moving from side to side, I know about OIS but this rattle is constant? any thoughts, Thanks PC

[@GroundedTech]

It could also be the telephoto because it's a moveable lens.

[@philipmc8246]

​@@GroundedTechdoes yours rattle when you shake it??? I feel mines faulty, thanks for the reply

[@GroundedTech]

@philipmc8246 it does. Definitely not faulty. It's quite common.

[@user-ru8vp5ch7y]

@@GroundedTech thanks so much for the advice your a star 👍👍

[@GroundedTech]

@user-ru8vp5ch7y anytime 👊🏻

[@keshanwaidyanayake2056]

Sony's idea of "getting back in the game" is giving up on what made Xperia unique. Just my thoughts on camera app is that sony should have combined the video pro + cinema pro for video and kept the photography pro and given the basic and auto modes better Ai for low light and specially detail recovery for that tiny zoom sensor .the camera on the 1 vi just seems half backed also on a side note where's slow motion? at least not even 240fps the old Xperia 1 2019 has 1080p@960fps but the new ones have only 120fps. It's like they take 2 steps front and 3 steps back

[@GroundedTech]

On the 120fps side it's native and in 4K which gives you the ability to do whatever you want with it in the edit. Would be nice to have some extra options though that's true. I agree with everything else you said. I don't think they have a clear vision of what they're doing anymore.

[@keshanwaidyanayake2056]

@@GroundedTech yh the slow motion thing is pretty small but that zoom quality doesn't really seem excusable for a phone that price

[@GroundedTech]

@keshanwaidyanayake2056 yeah the zoom quality is the thing I feel really let down with. I didn't want extended range we just needed a larger sensor.

[@rolins3279]

A 1.5k screen (yes it's the minimum today, and above all, Samsung was criticized for years for its S+ which were "just FHD"), 4 years minimum of Android update (but the smartphone must be released in February at the latest, not 2-3 months before the new Android version and especially the new Snapdragon) because there, it's no longer even 3 years of updating but 2 years in real life, a 1" main sensor, better video stabilization, keeping its niche features (Pro Camera) by adding mainstream features ( good auto camera like on iPhones, Galaxy and other smartphones), a "really" good telescopic zoom, and above all a price of $1000- $1100 max, there, Sony will be able to get back into the game. 🙏🏽

[@GroundedTech]

I actually think the mistake is Sony trying to "get back into the game". It's not possible for them at this stage.

[@rolins3279]

@GroundedTech Quite the contrary, I even think it's the right time for Sony to come back, but not by wanting to impose its vision on consumers. The points I mentioned are the real criticisms made by real consumers (I am the owner of a store selling smartphones and the like), beyond a certain price point, customers want a certain minimum quality of hardware, software and above all software monitoring.

[@GroundedTech]

We'll have to agree to disagree. I see where you're coming from I just don't think it's possible for them.

[@Ak1r0]

It seems like there is an internal management conflict inside Sony mobile right now. Half the people point out how they haven't been selling that well and want to go mainstream: "see, even MKBHD tells us things we should have done all these years" and the other, more conservative side that wants to keep the niche of customers and the kind of niche phone that it is: "look, our customers hate it now, we should revert with the apps and the whole theme should remain pro photography/videography!" And of course the customers are caught in-between that conflict and feel as confused as the engineers at Sony are right now. For me personally, I couldn't care less about the pro apps. The phone looks great on paper and the reviews show as such. There is still a lot of improvement the team has to do but one thing they shouldn't do is trying to keep the phone the "pro photo/video phone". If you want a pro photo/video they have their Alpha cameras and whatnot. Instead the phones should be about bringing their Alpha technology to the masses, not containing it. That would work much better both in marketing and in sales. I know I would buy it in a heartbeat. Instead I'll be holding my Xperia 5 III for now and for the first time ever (since the Sony Ericsson K750) I'll be looking at other options, which there are a lot of out there. Which is sad to say but I'm not very confident Sony will be improving much towards where they should be.

[@GroundedTech]

If they try to go after the iPhone/Galaxy crowd they will definitely die off. Having that niche is what kept them going. I have another video coming soon for this phone. I'll be moving on from it even though I like it as a phone.

[@Ak1r0]

@@GroundedTech I believe going a bit more mainstream, not necessarily with the specs and features but with the marketing and branding, will do wonders for Sony mobile. They should develop a better auto camera app, but they should keep the pro apps as is for that crowd. No need to throw them out, they're already developed very well! Sony phones have to do with headphones and the 3.5 jack that most phones now ditch. Bring back the Walkman branding for it and release a special black and orange edition. They have the PS division. They should work with them to have certain features to enjoy when paired with a PS console etc. There are myriads of things Sony can do to turn this around, yet they don't. They have customers in other divisions that if their phones were paired with they would be much better in both quality and features which would translate to sales. Sony is the only company not exploiting their strengths properly and why it's a frustrating experience being their customer.

[@GroundedTech]

@Ak1r0 that's the thing that irked me most, removing the Pro apps altogether. And honestly I really love using the 1 VI day to day. Just wish they had done more with the telephoto.

[@RealistJ]

Why doesn't any do a battery drain test with this phone?

[@GroundedTech]

I don't do battery drain tests full stop as I don't think they are representative of actual usage. The Xperia 1 VI is the best I've had when it comes to battery though.

[@RealistJ]

@@GroundedTech no worries, do you know if it lasts longer than honor magic 6 pro?

[@GroundedTech]

@RealistJ I wouldn't unfortunately. The Honor has a bigger battery I believe. The Sony has the more efficient screen. It might balance out but I expect the Sony to take it.

[@ASilver526]

Great video, in put off buying this device so far. I really like the old camera apps and so moving away from that is really disappointing with regards to the screen, I haven’t seen it yet from what I’ve heard. There isn’t a major difference and it’s a good quality panel, I’m loving all of the compliments around the battery life. I’m still debating whether to take the plunge.

[@GroundedTech]

Thanks. What are you running currently? It would have been nice if we had the option to use the alternative layout like being able to switch between.

[@ASilver526]

I’m on the iPhone 15 pro at the minute. Always been a loyal Sony fan since I was a kid. The iPhone works as a solid reliable all rounder for me but I’m tempted to switch. Also I agree, who at sony is making some of these decisions, it really is baffling why they got rid of the pro camera apps.

[@GroundedTech]

@ASilver526 I had the 15 Pro for a few months and really liked it tbh. Hoping to get one again at some point.

[@mso1189]

Excellent points raised, I was seriously considering getting 1 VI after believing the hype about battery life and tele macro, but this video dissuaded me from doing so. Just not worth it at this price. Thanks for saving me money.

[@GroundedTech]

No problem. I think once it comes down a few hundred it would be worth it. The battery is truly excellent.

[@Tubeflux]

I got mine, 1 Mark VI over a week ago and I m still experimenting. About the yet missing app... can't we download it anyway from the app store? about JPG... if you don't shoot multiple , you can use jpg AND / OR RAW... in PRO mode, of course. I think a simple software update con easily solve this.

[@GroundedTech]

Unfortunately not. They purposely removed it. I sideloaded the APK and they just didn't work correctly. It's a shame.

[@user-ru8vp5ch7y]

HI, great review, I understand OIS but does your 1 vi rattle ? and if it does can you explain it to a non tech head like me, because I hate the constant rattle when I move the phone from desk to ear. Any good thoughts. PMC

[@GroundedTech]

Yeah the rattle is the OIS. Get it on many phones.

[@NetvoTV]

I use a Mac and prefer iOS, but Xperia 1 VI when in ood light and you make it in low light, the inage quakity looks natural, plus it has the 2X macro, I like to explore the macro world and i like to take adtistic pictures but in macro world there is not much variation to do unique artistic photo, if i want to explore the small world i can just google it isn't it, should i just get the iohone 16 / 16 Pro or still get Xperia 1 VI, i will lose airdrop tho its not essential, but there is garageband i can play with on ios, not sure yet

[@GroundedTech]

It's a very different experience and tbh unless you intend to make use of the different features the iPhone 16 Pro should be the better all-round choice.

[@NetvoTV]

@@GroundedTech i see, but do you know well about latest iOS, can I set a custom lut or tone or the picture to be more realistic and each time I open the camera app, it will take at that custom tone, if not then if I have to set the realistic tone each time then it will be time consuming and not ideal

[@GroundedTech]

You'll get a more natural look from the Sony. iPhone would be a case of shooting in RAW and editing to get that look.

[@NetvoTV]

@@GroundedTech I see, hmmm, I haven't got the money for one yet tho, can't even afford a hard drive right now, if you know some freelance works, let me know!

[@GroundedTech]

@NetvoTV I don't I'm afraid but hope you find some soon. Good luck! 🤞🏻

[@athoughttothinkabout6072]

1080p? REALLY? 😢😢😢 I currently have the mark 5 and have no plans on getting the 6. Cause what you said. They ADVERTISED about the 4k now nope! I sure as HECK am not paying 1300 for it!!

[@GroundedTech]

Funny thing is if they had kept the form factor and camera software the same as the V I'd be fine with the screen change because the battery life is nuts. But those other changes really kill it for me.

[@NetvoTV]

Hey man, im a freelance logo designer, can i ask you where you get your logo done and how much you paid, i try to earn mlre money to help me get back on track in life but havent able to land on any freelance logo design job yet, i need spme advice

[@GroundedTech]

A friend of mine did it for me.

[@NetvoTV]

@@GroundedTech I see, if you or anyone you know need a logo, let me know! I can craft logo that not just for form but there is meaning in it too, form and function equally important for me! :-D

[@NetvoTV]

Really? Had you tested if you save more money by using phone flashlight and not ceiling light if you do it most of the time, technically it should be right but is it comfortable and do you live with anyone to able to do this as you like?

[@GroundedTech]

Lol that's interesting. I live with my wife and she's terrible for leaving lights on 😅

[@NetvoTV]

@@GroundedTech hahaha I see

[@DubravkoKovacduq]

This is the only phone I know that really replaces a point and shoot camera. The others are either so big that one can not hold them comfortably for shooting, have a screen too dim to shoot in the summer sun, have too short battery life to use them for a whole day of gps and shooting (which is normal use case on a trip) or have AF only usable for static objects. I don't know what you are drinking.

[@GroundedTech]

Lots of phones can replace a point and shoot camera. Every other phone at this price point has better camera hardware. Other phones also have very good AF. Nothing you said there is true. Stay off the whiskey.

[@DubravkoKovacduq]

@@GroundedTech It's about the combo. If a smartphone is so large that I can't put it in the same pocket _instead_ of my normal phone and use it onehandedly just like my normal phone , then I am better off with a dedicated point-and-shoot. The same goes if I can't use it for the whole day of a city sightseeing because the battery is empty after 5 hours of gps+ camera usage. Then I have no gps and no camera at the end of the day. Why should I buy a phone as expensive as a rx100 if I can't see anything in the sunlight, or if I can only use it for a couple of hours as a camera because battery? It defies the purpose, then it's better to just take your basic iPhone and bring a dedicated point and shoot with you. With those other "flagships", if I shoot all day, at the end of the day the battery is empty and I have neither a phone nor a camera. Yeah powerbank, now I have a phone that I can't put in my pocket, which I have to hold with both hands while shooting and a powerbank in my pocket. I'm still better off with a more basic phone and a dedicated p&s. And also, tracking AF can never be good enough. Even with Sony you'll miss shots. I am extremely sure that the sales of those camera flagships would skyrocket if they would have normal size and more durable batteries, just like Sony delivered this time. Creator or not, everybody would like to have a better camera on his phone, but the size and the battery life due to screen sizes and resolutions are just too prohibitive.

[@GroundedTech]

I agree with a lot of what you're saying. I just don't know how that relates to what I said about the 1 VI and why you're implying I must be drunk. The 1 V is an easier phone to use in that respect due to the aspect ratio. The one saving grace of the 1 VI is that battery life. I'd like more phones to go the Xperia route in form factor too but it's fair to say in terms of software and processing those other phones do some things better than Xperia. The price of this needed to be lower. A better telephoto sensor I would have been happy enough.

[@orangeyellow-me1pz]

Wasn't the camera flash made like that on purpose?

[@GroundedTech]

I have no idea. But if it was I'm not sure why 🤔

[@sayjae40]

Dont get me wrong sony will be coming again with mega new phone with 4k apple have been doing but sony deliver better

[@GroundedTech]

I hope so.

[@sayjae40]

@@GroundedTech I have been researching and looking forward people never noticed the GHz screen display on Apple phone 😂 they delivering so low but putting down only high GHz on the Apple selling high rate GHz on pro Mx only but people never put light on the side have you ever checked how strong is the signal Sony is deliverubg it it helping me a lot in my office work in very basic work the Bluetooth and wife connection apple have been delivering so low coverage on Apple WiFi as well no one now's they just run for the brand but Sony is doing everything to keep things minimal simple classic on tech I hope people should know manual thing is knowledge we need to know learn everything automatic is not 🚫 what we learn simple logic

[@carltonslaine7756]

I don't respect Sony for doing that to the customers charging a lot for a phone that doesn't compete very well to the other mobile phones that show slightly more better pictures and videos and this suppose to be a new model for this year I am very disappointed with Sony as a customer who likes and loves Sony phone's I have the Sony mark 1 4 and now the Sony mark 1 6 come on Sony man if you don't keep up with the competitors Sony will be left out of the game and soon no one will buy their products their volume of sales will drop a lot so I agree with your opinion of the camera sensor they should use newest parts and upgrade the model better no excuses at all Sony even the slightly cheaper phones have better camera quality then the new Sony 1 mark 6 not very happy at all it's a bit sad for me Sony as ok et me down 👎👎

[@GroundedTech]

Don't get me wrong I still really love this phone. But the telephoto is a huge letdown. Camera software UI and having less features is just unacceptable tbh.

[@carltonslaine7756]

@@GroundedTech you what I really agree with you I just feel like the people at sony does not listen or take it considering what the buying customers want they are so quick in charging this amount of money for a phone that's a Bit old technology inside there phone someone needs A wake up call at Sony... I just can not get my head around this at all it's a rip off And mega disappointment For Xperia phones and a insult too.. I would love Sony to read these comments and take everything in because I just love Sony it different and unique from the competitors If can you let Sony knows how you really really feel man Because I am with you all the way and I will back you you right in every angle peace my man👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@GroundedTech]

@carltonslaine7756 same. I love Xperia. Nothing else like it out there but they're really diluting the brand.

[@GAMERGEBITER]

My LG G3 from 2014 had 1440p on a smaller screen. Why 1080p on a crazy expensive flagship from 2024

[@GroundedTech]

The panels are much better quality now tbf but yeah I still wanted minimum 1440p.

[@JustMe77]

If you have never owned a Sony Experia..

[@GroundedTech]

?

[@dulsanglama7412]

🎉

[@GAMERGEBITER]

They could have at least gone to 1440p, come on...

[@GroundedTech]

Yeah that would have been ideal. It's perfectly fine though. It sips battery so I think that's why they went that route.

[@richardanderson9926]

@@GroundedTech that and variable refresh rate works much better when the screen is constantly 1080p

[@GroundedTech]

Yeah I agree. I still wish it was 1440p though.

[@richardanderson9926]

@@GroundedTech i don't wanna sound like i've listened to too many reviewers lol but 1080p on a 6.5 inch screen is fine lol. If I work out the PPI on my 4k Sony TV it's 68 pixels per inch. My 6.5 inch Xperia 1 VI is 396, perspective lol

[@GroundedTech]

@richardanderson9926 yeah I get that. I'm fine using 1080p. I'd just like the price to reflect it! Lol

[@hebregheorgheraul6192]

The camera app is onley for you the 99% of users don't care about that look at the seales in the past it is beather this way

[@GroundedTech]

I don't think it has had any effect on sales. But all of the Xperia users I know aren't happy with the change. Some are even sticking with the V.

[@resetpassw0rd]

So I guess you buy phones just for a screen) If Sony wont tell there is no more 4K most of you would never notice. Stop it.

[@GroundedTech]

I said the screen is fine. Did you even listen? If I bought a phone for the screen I'd be buying a Samsung.

[@shaunigothictv1003]

First of all why are you speaking in a Scouse accent? Whereabouts in Liverpool are you actually from? If you are not from Liverpool then why are you speaking in a Scouse accent?

[@GroundedTech]

Scouse 😂😂😂

[@shaunigothictv1003]

@@GroundedTech 😀😀😀

[@xsartal7691]

I'll stick with my xperia 1V..

[@GroundedTech]

I'd like to do the same. Maybe even get a 5 V.

[@maz1988]

people will always find something to complain about

[@GroundedTech]

We should just be happy with everything shouldn't we.