Sony just launched the world’s first 4K mobile phone at IFA 2015, the Sony Xperia Z5 Premium, packing an eye-watering 806 pixels-per-inch into its 5.5-inch panel.
If you thought the Quad HD screens of the Samsung Galaxy S6 and LG G4 were more than sharp enough, think again. Sony’s new Xperia Z5 Premium (which rides the hazy line between smartphone and phablet) boasts a 5.5-inch 4K panel, the first mobile to stretch to such a crazy resolution (3840×2160), as well as the same great features found on the Xperia Z5 flagship phone.
Read next: Sony launches its new Xperia Z5 flagship and mini marvel the Xperia Z5 Compact.
One immediate problem is the lack of decent 4K content right now, but the the Xperia Z5 Premium can apparently upscale video from Netflix, YouTube and so on to 4K quality for your viewing pleasure. And as you can shoot 4K video on the Xperia Z5 Premium using the all-new 23-megapixel camera, you’ll be able to play back your clips in their full ridiculous-res glory right there on the phone’s screen.
You’re probably worried that a 4K screen is going to cane the Xperia Z5 Premium’s battery life, but Sony reckons the phone will still keep going for two whole days, just like the standard Xperia Z5. This is partly thanks to changes in the processing software, which keeps CPU activity to a minimum when not needed – which should also help to cut down heat levels, with any luck.
Meanwhile, the thinner display means less light needs to be pushed through to keep the panel bright, while also allowing space for an even bigger battery (3,430mAh) inside the phone.
Read next: Does the Sony Xperia Z5 Premium phone really need a 4K screen? Check out our hands-on review.
The Xperia Z5 Premium is close to identical to the new Xperia Z5 flagship in terms of the rest of the specs, although Sony has stuck on a mirrored back panel rather than a frosted effort, which can be snapped up in chrome, black and gold. Perhaps 4K lovers are just that little bit vain too.
If you’re desperate to feast on teeny tiny 4K visuals, you’ll sadly have to wait a wee while longer. The Xperia Z5 Premium is expected to hit UK stores from November 2015, while UK pricing is yet to be confirmed. We’d expect a hefty price tag, however – perhaps around £699.
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