Sony has begun rolling out the Android 16 update to its flagship model, the Sony Xperia 1 VII, which was recently suspended due to software issues. This update, a significant step forward for the device, focuses more on functional improvements than on radical design changes as expected.
Sony Xperia 1 VII Launches Android 16
Originally released with Android 15, the Xperia 1 VII now receives Android 16 with the approximately 1.1 GB update, software version “71.1.A.2.68.” The update, initially available to users in Europe, reinforces Sony’s commitment to four major operating system updates and six years of security support. This means the phone will remain up to date until Android 19.
Among the most notable features introduced with the update is Google’s Advanced Protection feature, which users must manually activate. This feature enhances security by blocking unsafe apps, flagging potentially fraudulent searches, and warning users about risky websites. The new version also features smarter notification grouping, improvements to hearing aid support, and the ability to take and share screenshots in HDR.
In this update, Sony has largely retained the familiar interface from Android 15, eschewing the “Material 3 Expressive” design language prominent on Google’s Pixel phones. The most noticeable visual change is the redesigned system settings menu, while the overall user interface maintains its simplicity and familiarity. However, some features, such as Google’s Live Updates for push notifications, and the fact that the security patch has not yet been updated for September are noteworthy. Despite this, Sony strengthens its software support by delivering a stable and rapid Android 16 rollout compared to rivals like OnePlus.
