We spent a day with the new Xperia Z5 Dual at IFA earlier this month, and though we couldn’t put it through its paces for a longer period, here are our initial thoughts. The device will be available in the UAE in two weeks at an approximate price of Dh2,699, along with the Compact and Premium models.
With all the headlines stolen by the Z5 Premium Dual — the one with the 4K display — this device packs a decent punch of its own. The Dual runs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 octa-core processor, similar to the Premium, 23MP rear and 5MP front cameras, also similar to the Premium, and a 5.2-inch FHD 1080p (1920x1080) display — unlike the Premium.
While most news of the Z5 family focuses on the Premium — #GNTECH being guilty of name-dropping it about six times already — we are here to talk about the Dual.
The first thing you notice about the phone is how it’s built. And it’s beautiful. When you do get your hands on the Dual later this month, you will agree.
The Dual has a frosted glass back that feels better than it looks and a metal frame wrapped around the device with an engraved Xperia logo. The frosted glass isn’t a fingerprint magnet, luckily, ensuring both the device and you continue to look fresh as ever.
Since we’re on the topic of fingerprints, the Dual’s power button doubles as a integrated fingerprint sensor. This feature is so discreet, I actually forgot the device was equipped with this sensor until a few hours into caressing it. Did I say caressing? I meant reviewing, obviously.
In typical Sony fashion, the device’s camera is a powerhouse. It reportedly offers the world’s fastest autofocus at 0.03 seconds, while pictures can be enhanced by Xperia’s host of camera apps and add-on functions on the phone. This smartphone has what it takes to rival its rivals and I trust it will do quite well in the UAE upon release. My only concern in terms of its competition would be the Premium Dual, since the two devices could possibly have a Dh200 difference in price — and you know how much we love our premium tech.
For those who have read until the end — here’s a surprise spoiler you would have never seen coming: it’s waterproof as well.
