Sony’s next mid-range contender is on the horizon, and this time it’s changing shape literally. The Xperia 10 VII, expected to launch in October, has surfaced via a case listing on Amazon Japan. Leaks hint at an updated camera design, a metal frame, and an upgraded chip, all while keeping the brand’s familiar feel.
Xperia 10 VII camera layout goes horizontal
For the first time in the series, the Xperia 10 VII moves away from the standard vertical camera setup. Leaked images show a horizontal camera bar with two lenses placed side by side. The module also includes an LED flash and two microphones.
That’s a notable shift for Sony, which has held tight to its vertical stack for years. Whether it improves performance or just looks cleaner, it’s a welcome visual refresh.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra may feature even rounder corners than the S25 Ultra, aiming for a more comfortable grip and better usability.
Display and design stay familiar
The front of the phone sticks with Sony’s old-school playbook. No notch, no punch-hole just thick bezels on top and bottom. It’s a look only Sony dares to keep alive, and for its niche fans, it works.
On the side, the strap hole returns alongside volume and power buttons. There’s no confirmed shutter button yet, but it’s likely to be included, even if not shown in early images.
Xperia 10 VII specs bring solid mid-range upgrades
The new model isn’t just about design. The Xperia 10 VII is expected to feature a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chip, replacing last year’s Gen 1. That alone should bring noticeable boosts to speed and efficiency.
Here’s what to expect based on current leaks:
- 6.1-inch display with a 21:9 ratio
- Dual rear cameras with horizontal alignment
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset
- Metal frame construction
- Launch window: October 2025
The shift from plastic to metal should also improve durability something Sony’s mid-range phones have often lacked.
Sony’s phone lineup stays niche but focused
Sony’s global smartphone presence has shrunk to a modest 1%, and that’s not likely to change. Still, the Xperia 10 VII targets a dedicated audience that values headphone jacks, SD card slots, and clean Android software without gimmicks.
Small upgrades, steady strategy
Sony isn’t chasing trends; it’s sticking to its identity. And in a market filled with notches, holes, and glass bricks, the Xperia 10 VII stands out simply by staying different. That may not grab headlines, but it keeps the brand alive, and oddly, that’s become its strategy.
