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Sony Xperia Z5 leak suggests 23-megapixel camera

The company's next flagship phone could improve low-light shots on its already well-liked camera.

Scott Webster
Scott Webster has spent the better part of his adult life playing with cell phones and gadgets. When not looking for the latest Android news and rumors, he relaxes with his wife and son. Scott also is the senior editor for AndroidGuys. E-mail Scott.
Scott Webster
2 min read

The next-gen Sony phone could pack in the megapixels.

Andrew Hoyle/CNET

When it comes to Sony's next flagship smartphone camera, bigger seems to be better. A supposed leak of press-ready imagery for the unannounced Sony Xperia Z5 names the camera at 23 megapixels, according to Xperia Blog, which says it obtained details and images.

Expected at the IFA electronics conference in Berlin next week, the camera could also pack in a 1/2.3-inch 23MP Exmor RS sensor. These are the makings for large, detailed, high-resolution photos from one of the best names in the smartphone camera business.

In an increasingly crowded and cutthroat phone landscape, Sony's camera credentials may not be enough to convince buyers. Although the company does forecast profit as it turns around its ailing phone business, new global phones from major players like Apple, Samsung and Motorola will apply pressure on the high end, while on the lower end, upstart shops like Xiaomi and OnePlus entice cost-conscious buyers with comparatively low prices on handsets with hardware features just shy of premium.

If the camera rumor is true, this would mark the first change in Sony cameras since the first-generation Xperia Z1 , which launched back in 2013. Whereas successive models were found to take impressive pictures, CNET reviews noted that autofocus has been weak.

A second, unconfirmed report surfacing this week from Twitter leaker @evleaks suggests that the Xperia Z5 camera could be outfitted with "super-fast 0.1-second hybrid 192 Pazovani PDAF autofocus and F1.8 aperture" settings. This jargon essentially boils down to indicate improved pictures low-light conditions and quick autofocus.

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The Sony Xperia Z5 could be the first smartphone to boast a 23-megapixel sensor.

Xperia Blog

The LG G4 , which features an F1.8 aperture like the Z5 reportedly will, has received high marks for its ability to allow more light into the sensor, leading to better night shots.

Although Xperia Z5 rumors began early, we won't have to wait much longer to see what Sony has up its sleeve. A press event slated for September 2 promises a smartphone with "greater focus". CNET will be on the ground in Berlin with all the news.