Xperia Z Ultra 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update rolling on carrier handsets

Android 5.0.2 Lollipop 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update which was spotted on Xperia Z1 Compact (carrier handsets) is now rolling for Xperia Z Ultra C6833 also. Update is confirmed in Greece, Netherlands, and Poland on carriers Cosmote GR, T-Mobile NL, and T-Mobile PL respectively.

14.5.A.0.283 firmware update was also certified for Xperia Z1, so we might see soon 14.5.A.0.283 firmware getting rolled on Xperia Z1 carriers handsets in Europe also.

Xperia Z Ultra 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update

14.5.A.0.283 firmware update is also live via XperiFirm tool.

NOTE: Non-Carrier Xperia Z Ultra users, kindly do not flash the carrier ftf on their handset.

If you want to download 14.5.A.0.283 firmware from the XperiFirm tool and flash it on your Xperia Z Ultra, use the below links (Below posted links have only tutorial, compatible with all Xperia handsets).

How to download Xperia Z Ultra 14.5.A.0.283 Lollipop firmware using XperiFirm tool?

How to flash Xperia Z Ultra 14.5.A.0.283 Lollipop firmware ftf using Flashtool?

Have you got 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update on Xperia Z Ultra? Let us know, drop your comments below.

Xperia Z1 Compact 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update rolling for carrier handsets

Xperia Z1 Compact D5503 has got a new 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update (only for the carrier handsets) in Austria and Germany region on T-Mobile AT and Telekom.de carriers respectively. Last firmware to hit the global variant of Xperia Z1 Compact was 14.5.A.0.270 build.

Android 5.0.2 Lollipop 14.5.A.0.283 firmware is also certified for Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra also thought roll out on global variants of these devices is not confirmed for the time being.

Xperia Z1 Compact 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update

14.5.A.0.283 firmware update is also available for download via XperiFirm tool.

[UPDATE] 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update is now rolling on Xperia Z Ultra C6833 in Greece, Netherlands, and Poland.

Download Xperia Z1 Compact 14.5.A.0.283 ftf

For D5503 (Germany Telekom.de)

Download D5503_14.5.A.0.283_GermanyTelekom.de[WwW.SonyROMS.iR].ftf

NOTE: Non-Carrier Xperia Z1 Compact users, kindly do not flash the carrier ftf on their handset. Flashing steps here.

If you want to download 14.5.A.0.283 firmware from the XperiFirm tool and flash it on your Xperia Z1 Compact, use the below links (Below posted links have only tutorial, compatible with all Xperia handsets).

How to download Xperia Z1 Compact 14.5.A.0.283 Lollipop firmware using XperiFirm tool?

How to flash Xperia Z1 Compact 14.5.A.0.283 Lollipop firmware ftf using Flashtool?

Have you got 14.5.A.0.283 firmware update on Xperia Z1 Compact? Let us know, drop your comments below.

via – XDA (ftf shared by demonio98)

Sony Xperia Keyboard 6.6.A.0.40 app updated

Sony Xperia Keyboard has got a new update in the form of 6.6.A.0.40 version over older 6.6.A.0.30 version. Xperia Keyboard 6.6.A.0.40 app brings minor bugs fixing and performance improvements, no major changes spotted except that now it is more responsive.

Xperia Keyboard 6.6.A.0.30 version was a major update and brought larger spacebar for easier typing, numeric row for the input of numbers on tablets, new language support for Armenian, Azerbaijani, Belarusian, Georgian, and Tatar and Phonepad layout for Xperia Z2. Xperia Keyboard 6.6.A.0.40 app is compatible with Xperia devices running Android 4.4+.

Xperia Keyboard app

Download Sony Xperia Keyboard app, version 6.6.A.0.40 from Play Store.

If you are unable to update from Play Store, use below link to download Xperia Keyboard 6.6.A.0.40 apk.

Check out latest Sony Xperia apps updates here. Download Xperia Z3+ Keyboard 6.7.A.0.10 version from here.

Facing any bugs, let us know? Drop your comments below.

Sony launches 8 more Xperia Style portrait app effects officially

A few days back we saw that Sony Mobile launched 3 Xperia Style Portrait app effects viz. Sunshine, Mystery & Paint and, now 8 more effects have been launched on Play Store viz. Leopard, Bad Body, Bubble, Red Lips, Glitter, Ink Wash, Lace, and Movie.

You need Xperia Style Portrait app to install these effects and for the time being Style Portrait app is only available for Xperia M4 Aqua, Xperia C4, Xperia Z3+/Z4. Sony might roll Style Portrait app update soon to other users.

Xperia Style portrait app effects

Xperia Style portrait app is now available for installing only for rooted Xperia “Z” series handsets, look here.

Leopard – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Leopard – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Bad Boy – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Bad Boy – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Bubble – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Bubble – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Red Lips – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Red Lips – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Glitter – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Glitter – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Ink Wash – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Ink Wash – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Lace – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Lace – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Movie – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Movie – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Check out the latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

All those users who Xperia Style Portrait app installed, let us know you experience with these effects. Drop your comments below.

Sony Xperia Z4v coming to Verizon USA in summer 2015

Sony Mobile launched Xperia Z4 exclusively for the Japanese market and now it is heading to USA. Xperia Z4v is coming to Verizon Wireless this summer 2015 in USA officially. Earlier Sony Mobile launched Xperia Z3v on Verizon Wireless in USA. You can check out more details on Verizon here.

Sony Xperia Z4v will feature the similar specs like Xperia Z4 (except for some minor changes). Xperia Z4v will be available for purchase from online stores and dedicated shops in white and black color units this summer in USA and customers will be able to choose a few “made of Xperia accessories” from Otterbox, Incipio, Case-Mate, and Tech21.

Sony Xperia Z4v

Xperia Z4v features Snapdragon 810 64 bit Octa core processor (2 GHz) with 3 GB RAM, 32 GB internal storage (with micro SD card support). It features 20.7 MP camera 25mm wide-angle, 1/2.3″ size sensor (ISO 12800). It features 5.1 MP front camera (25mm wide-angle). Xperia Z4v is 8.6mm thick (160 grams weight) with 5.2″ QHD display (2560×1440 resolution) packed in an aluminum frame with a glass back. Xperia Z4v features 3000 mAh battery and wireless charging. It will support Quick Charging 2.0.

[ UPDATE ] Verizon Sony Xperia Z4v Hands on pics here.

Ravi Nookala, President, Sony Mobile Communications North America said, “With the coming Xperia Z4v launch, we are delivering on our commitment to bringing the latest and greatest Sony smartphones to the US,”. Adding to his previous statement he said, “Our Xperia Z4v offers US customers the most fun mobile experience around with features that give them the freedom to play.”

Xperia Z4v Specifications

Interested users, signup here to get Xperia Z4v in USA.

As Sony is planning to release Xperia Z3+ globally, we might not see it releasing in USA as Sony has released Xperia Z4v. Are we going to see more carriers like T-Mobile launching Xperia Z4, time will tell.

Source – Verizon (XperiaZ4v) | via – AndroidCentral | Thanks for the tip, Rimaz Flyil!

Sony launches promotional Xperia Pixels Theme officially

Sony Mobile has launched another promotional Xperia theme viz. Xperia Pixels Theme to promote the upcoming movie “Pixels” (2015). You get pixelated navigation keys, icons, and yellow colored themed UI.

Xperia Pixels theme work fine on Xperia devices running Android 4.4 KitKat whereas on Lollipop running Xperia devices it is not functioning properly.

Xperia Pixels Theme

Download Xperia Pixels Theme from Play Store, version 1.0.0

Check out the full range of Xperia Themes here.

Like the theme, let us know? Drop your comments below.

Sony India to hold press conference on 26 June – Xperia Z3+ Launching?

Sony Mobile is holding a press conference on 26 June in India. Earlier Sony India had a press conference on 26 May where we saw Xperia M4 Aqua Dual and Xperia C4 Dual getting launched and this time on 26 June we can expect Xperia Z3+ getting launched in India.

Annotation on the invite reads as “Block Your Date, Friday 26 June 2015“; event will be held in New Delhi. As Sony mentioned that Xperia Z3+ will see a global launch therefore seeing Xperia Z3+ getting launched in India on 26 June makes sense.

Sony’s press event on 26 June

Check out the media event sent by Sony India below.

Xperia M4 Aqua Dual and Xperia C4 Dual are already selling in India. Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is priced at Rs 24990 (available at Flipkart India & Amazon India) and Xperia C4 Dual is priced at Rs 29490.

Chances of seeing Xperia Z4 Tablet getting launched on 26 June in India is very less, though the time will tell.

We will bring live updates from the event, stay tuned.

Drop your comments below.

Coral color Xperia M4 Aqua Dual Hands on Pics – Launched in Taiwan

Sony Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is now available in Taiwan starting from today along with Xperia Z3+. Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is priced at 9900 NTW Dollar ($320) and Xperia Z3+ is priced at 20900 NTW Dollar ($676).

Xperia M4 Aqua Dual features Snapdragon 615 Octa-Core 64 bit processor making it the first Xperia smartphone with 64 bit octa-core Snapdragon SoC (unveiled first at MWC 2015). It has 13 MP rear cam, F2.0 aperture with Sony’s Superior Auto Mode (ISO 3200 sensitivity), 5 MP selfie front cam with wide angles, following Sony’s signature OmniBalance design, cap-less micro USP port (water resistant) and running Android 5.0 Lollipop out of the box. Xperia M4 Aqua Dual sports 2400 mAh battery, 5″ 720p HD Display, 7.3 mm thin, 2 GB RAM, 16 GB internal storage and weighing 140 grams.

Coral Color Xperia M4 Aqua Dual Hands on

Xperia M4 Aqua looks simply gorgeous in coral color, check out the hands on pics below.

Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is now available in India also at Flipkart India for Rs 24990 (Black color) and for Rs 23990 (Coral and White color). Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is now also available at Amazon India for Rs 23990 and at Amazon International for $349.

Look here for video and pics comparison between Xperia M4 Aqua and Xperia M2 Aqua.

Xperia M4 Aqua Dual in black color hands on pics here.

Are you looking to buy Xperia M4 Aqua, let us know? Drop your comments below.

Source – ePrice (shared by Jason)

Sony Xperia Lounge app, 3.1.4 version updated

Sony Xperia Lounge was updated to 3.1.4 version today from older 3.1.2 version. Xperia Lounge app 3.1.4 update brings minor bugs fixing and performance enhancement. No major changes have been spotted so far.

Xperia Lounge app works on Xperia device running Android 2.3+ and it categorizes users as gold and silver members now; based on that promotional offers are displayed.

Sony Xperia Lounge App

Download Sony Xperia Lounge 3.1.4 version from Play Store.

If you are unable to download it, use the below link to download the direct apk.

Check out the latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

Facing any issues with the app, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Thanks for the tip, Rimaz Flyil!

Xperia Android M & Apple OS X Theme for Lollipop devices

Today we are sharing Xperia Android M & Apple OS X theme for Lollipop devices. Xperia Android M theme will give you stock navigation keys, Android M official wallpaper, and stock green color as theme UI whereas Apple OS X theme will give you a feel of Mac OS.

You need Xperia device running Android 5.0.2+ Lollipop to install the below posted themes (working on both rooted as well as non-rooted Xperia handset).

Xperia Android M Theme

Download Xperia Android M Theme from Play Store.

Xperia Apple OS X Theme

Download Xperia Apple OS X Theme from Play Store.

Check out more Xperia Themes here and Android M official apps here.

Like the themes, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Install Xperia Style Portrait app with skin collection for Lollipop devices

Sony introduced a new Xperia Style Portrait app (it was spotted in Xperia Z3+, Xperia M4 Aqua, and Xperia C4) and for the time being it is not available in other Xperia handsets running Android 5.0.2 Lollipop. Well good news, now Xperia Style Portrait app has been ported.

You need a rooted Xperia “Z” series device (with custom recovery installed), running Android Lollipop to install the Xperia Style Portrait app (from Xperia Z3+)

Xperia Style Portrait app

Xperia Style Portrait app port flashable zip file is posted below, download it from below link and flash in recovery (reboot your device then). Do not forget to take a backup of your whole ROM before flashing this port.

Download the latest Xperia Style Portrait app effects from here.

Check out the latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

Let us know if the Xperia Style Portrait app works on your Xperia “Z” series device. Drop your comments below.

App port by venkat kamesh (XDA)

Sony TrackID app 4.2.B.0.1 version updated

Sony TrackID app has got a new update in the form of 4.2.B.0.1 version over the older 4.1.B.4.2 version. Sony TrackID app 4.2.B.0.1 update follows the same changelog of earlier version where we saw Spotify app integration in TrackID app.

You can play music in Spotify, add music to the Spotify Playlist now from TrackID app. TrackID app now allows you to play preview of the song you searched.

Sony TrackID App

Download Sony TrackID 4.2.B.0.1 app version from Play Store.

If you are not able to download it from Play Store, use the below link to download the TrackID 4.2.B.0.1 apk manually.

Check out the latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

Facing any bugs, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Sony flaunts Xperia Z3+ Camera features in a promo video

Sony Mobile has launched a new video promo flaunting Xperia Z3+ camera features. Xperia Z3+ features 20.7 MP (5248 х 3936 pixels resolution, 25 mm wide-angle G Lens), 1/2.3″ size sensor (ISO 12800). It features 5.1 MP front camera (25mm wide-angle).

Xperia Z3+ has new camera add-ons like “Style Portrait” app to add various effects to you captured pics. Earlier today Sony launched three new Style Portrait app effects.

Xperia Z3+ Camera features promo video

Check out the video below.

Xperia Z3+ 5 MP front camera with 25 mm wide angle lens

NOTE: Xperia Z3+ will be available for purchase through Xperia online stores starting from 26 June this year. Xperia Z3+ is available for pre-order at Amazon UK for £549.99/$856 and at Amazon Germany for €699.

Don’t forget to check below exclusive Xperia Z3+ stuff.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ full detailed specifications here.

Xperia Z3+ vs Xperia Z3 Design Comparison in pics here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Unboxing Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Dual Hands On pics here.

Check out Aqua Green Xperia Z3+ Hands On pics here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ vs Xperia Z3 Design Comparison Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ vs Galaxy S6 Edge Design Comparison Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Hands On Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Unboxing Video here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Live Wallpaper here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Boot Animation here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Official Home Wallpapers here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Home Launcher here.

Download official Xperia Z3+ Themes here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Live Wallpaper for non-rooted devices here.

Will you be purchasing Xperia Z3+, let us know? Drop your comments below.

Xperia Z4 Tablet hands on pics of the retail unit

Sony Xperia Z4 Tablet is now available for pre-order in some regions around the world and Xperia Z3+ will soon be available for purchase in Europe (around 26 June this year). Xperia Z4 is now available in Japan for sale.

Xperia Z4 Tablet features 10.1″ 2K display (2560×1600 resolution) powered by ultra fast Snapdragon 810 Octa-Core 64 bit processor, weighing only (389g Wi-Fi / 393g LTE) and 6.1 mm slim, running Android Lollipop out of the box. Xperia Z4 Tablet also features 8 MP rear camera, wide-angle 5.1 MP front camera great for video calls and taking selfies. Xperia Z4 Tablet is compatible with Sony PS4 Remote Play function. Xperia Z4 Tablet features 32 GB internal storage, 3 GB RAM, 6000 mAh battery (Sony claims 17 hours of video playback).

Xperia Z4 Tablet hands on pics

Check out the Xperia Z4 Tablet hands on pics below.

Xperia Z4 Tablet is available for pre-order from Xperia online store in UK for £499/$776, shipping starts from 29 June. Xperia Z4 Tablet LTE version is now available for purchase at Amazon International for $799 and Wi-Fi variant for $599.

Will you buying Xperia Z4 Tablet, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Pics by Akira-ming (Digi-Wo)

Xperia Style portrait app effects Mystery, Paint & Sunshine available

Sony introduced a new Xperia Style Portrait camera app which was spotted on Xperia C4 and Xperia M4 recently has got some new stylish effects i.e. Mystery, Paint & Sunshine. All three Xperia Style portrait app effects can be downloaded from Play Store now.

For the time being only users who have installed Xperia Style portrait app (Xperia M4 Aqua and Xperia C4) as one of the camera-addon on their Xperia can use these effects.

Xperia Style portrait app effect

Mystery – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Mystery – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Paint – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Paint – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Sunshine – Xperia Style portrait app effect

Download Sunshine – Xperia Style portrait app effect, version 1.0.1 from Play Store.

Sony will be rolling Xperia Style Portrait app on other Xperia devices either via a firmware update or on Play Store.

We will keep you updated once Xperia Style Portrait app is available for other users also. Drop your comments below.

Xperia C4 Dual priced at Rs 29490 in India

Sony India has officially made Xperia C4 Dual available for purchase at a price Rs 29490/$460, starting from today. In May end, Sony India launched Xperia C4 Dual and Xperia M4 Aqua Dual in the Indian market (Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is priced at Rs 24990).

Xperia C4 Dual (Sony E5363) has been launched in black, white and vibrant mint colors and is now available exclusively at leading Sony Xperia stores in India.

Xperia C4 Dual available in India

Sony India has also officially updated the listing of Xperia C4 Dual on their website.

Xperia C4 Dual features Android Lollipop out of the box, 5.5″ 1080p FHD screen IPS display (401 PPI and Sony BRAVIA Engine 2 for mobile and super vivid mode) powered by 1.7 GHz Octa-core cortex-A53 MediaTek MT6752 processor (64 bit) , Mali-T760MP2 GPU backed by 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage. Xperia C4 Dual is 150.3 x 77.4 x 7.9 mm in dimensions, weighing 147 grams and a 2600 mAh battery.

Sony Xperia C4 Dual features 5 MP front cam (Sony’s Exmor R mobile sensor) with 25mm wide-angle lens (along with LED flash) and a 13 MP rear cam (Sony Exmor RS sensor with autofocus and HDR). Xperia C4 Dual has Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, Wi-Fi, micro USB 2.0 as connectivity options and micro SD card slot supported upto 128 GB.

Sony Xperia C4 Dual Hands On Pics here.

Xperia C4 Dual will soon be available from Flipkart India and Amazon India online. Xperia C4 is now available for $379 at Amazon International.

NOTE: Xperia M4 Aqua Dual is now available at Flipkart India for Rs 24990 (Black color) and Rs 23990 (Coral and White color). Xperia M4 Aqua Dual cases and covers are available on Amazon India and Amazon International.

Are you looking to buy Xperia C4 Dual? Let us know, drop your comments below.

Sony Smart Connect app 5.7.18.401 updated – Sony BKB50, SBH70 headset now supported

Sony Smart Connect app has got a new update in the form of 5.7.18.401 version over the older 5.7.16.312 version (which brought material design UI to the app). Sony Smart Connect app 5.7.18.401 now supports Sony BKB50 Bluetooth Keyboard (for Xperia Z4 Tablet).

It also supports now Sony SBH70 Bluetooth headset and smart headset. This update also brings usual bugs fixing and performance enhancement to the app.

Smart Connect app

Download Smart Connect 5.7.18.401 app from Play Store.

If you are unable to download it from Play Store use the below link to download the direct apk.

Check out the latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

Facing any bugs, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Thanks for the tip, Rimaz Flyil!

Sony Album 7.2.A.0.18 app updated – Bug fixes and performance enhancements

Sony Album app has got a new update in the form of 7.2.A.0.18 version older 7.2.A.0.14 version. Sony Album 7.2.A.0.18 app update is a minor update which brought usual bug fixes and performance enhancement.

Recently Sony introduced a “help” option under settings allowing users to views tips and tricks to use the Album app along with new updated full-screen layout.

Sony Album app

Download Album app 7.2.A.0.18 version from Play Store.

Download Sony Album 7.2.A.0.18 apk from below link.

Check out latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

Facing any issues with the app, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Sony Lifelog 2.8.A.0.16 app updated – Power consumption improvements

Sony Lifelog app has been updated on Play Store in the form of 2.8.A.0.16 version over the beta 2.8.B.0.6 version which was rolled a few days back. Sony Lifelog 2.8.A.0.16 app update brings huge improvements in power consumption, especially for Android Lollipop users.

Sony Lifelog 2.8.A.0.16 app features the new login UI and the “Insight card” feature becomes official now. Sony Lifelog app now integrates with Spotify and will show songs which user have listened on it.

Sony Lifelog app

Get Sony Lifelog 2.8.A.0.16 app from Play Store.

Download Sony Lifelog 2.8.A.0.16 apk from below link, if you are unable to download it from Play Store.

Check out the latest Sony Xperia app updates here.

Facing any issues with the app, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Thanks for the tip, Rimaz Flyil!

Beautiful pics of White & Aqua Green Xperia Z3+

Sony’s latest flagship Xperia Z3+ and Xperia Z3+ Dual are soon going to hit markets whereas Xperia Z4 is now available in Japan from today. Xperia Z3+ is launched in white, black, aqua green and copper color variants.

Xperia Z3+ features Snapdragon 810 64 bit Octa core processor (2 GHz) with 3 GB RAM, 32 GB internal storage (with micro SD card support). It features 20.7 MP camera 25mm wide-angle, 1 / 2.3 inch size sensor (ISO 12800). It features 5.1 MP front camera (25mm wide-angle). Xperia Z3+ weighs 144 grams and is 6.9mm thin with 5.2″ FHD Display (1920 x 1080 resolution, no 2K) packed in an aluminum frame with glass back.

Amazing pics of White & Aqua Green Xperia Z3+

Check out the pics below.

Don’t forget to check the exclusive Xperia Z3+ stuff posted below.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ full detailed specifications here.

Xperia Z3+ vs Xperia Z3 Design Comparison in pics here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Unboxing Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Dual Hands On pics here.

Check out Aqua Green Xperia Z3+ Hands On pics here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ vs Xperia Z3 Design Comparison Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ vs Galaxy S6 Edge Design Comparison Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Hands On Video here.

Check out Sony Xperia Z3+ Unboxing Video here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Live Wallpaper here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Boot Animation here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Official Home Wallpapers here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Home Launcher here.

Download official Xperia Z3+ Themes here.

Download Xperia Z3+ Live Wallpaper for non-rooted devices here.

Xperia Z3+ is soon going to be launched in markets, will you buying one, which color? Let us know. Drop your comments below.

Pics by maggiczw (Wilson Zizi Photography) & Zackbuks (from Digi-Wo)

Sony has no plans to use USB Type-C ports in Xperia devices for the time being

At a technology workshop in the Taipei recently, Sony Mobile had a discussion about using USB Type-C ports in Xperia devices, but the company has no plans for the time being to launch any such device.

Takeshi Nitta, a program manager at Sony Mobile’s Tokyo project office said “Of course we’re investigating (USB Type-C),“. Adding to his previous statement, Nitta said that the mobile industry still needs more time to switch from standard USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 to faster USB Type-C ports (basically USB 3.1).

Future of USB Type-C ports in Xperia devices

Takeshi Nitta also emphasized on reducing the thickness of camera modules and displays and achieving a thinner and lighter design by using USB Type-C ports is not the plan for the time being.

USB Type-C port is a standard connector which makes it a single port to work as a charging, video output, data transfer, charging external devices etc. USB Type-C port theoretically speaking is twice faster than USB 3.0 port (source).

Apple introduced its 2015 Macbook range with only two ports i.e. 3.5 mm headphone jack and a USB Type-C port. It is just a matter of time when other PC makers will also adapt to USB Type-C port and then we have to wait for it to come to smartphones.

For the time being Sony Mobile is using USB 2.0 port in their smartphones and as also seen in recently launched Xperia Z3+, Xperia M4 Aqua, and Xperia C4.

What’s your take on future of USB Type-C port in Xperia devices? Drop your comments below.

Source – FocusTaiwan (By Jeffrey Wu | ENDITEM/J) | via – Android Authority

Sony Xperia Lounge app 3.1.2 version updated – Can link to external Apps

Sony Xperia Lounge has been updated to newer 3.1.2 version from older 3.0.8 version. Sony Xperia Lounge app 3.1.2 update follows the same changelog of the previous version i.e. app now displays warning message when attempting to download larger files without Wi-Fi and external apps now can be linked to Xperia Lounge app.

Xperia Lounge app works on Xperia device running Android 2.3+ and it categorizes users as gold and silver members now; based on that promotional offers are displayed.

Sony Xperia Lounge App

Download Sony Xperia Lounge 3.1.2 version from Play Store.

If you are unable to download it, use the below link to download the direct apk.

Look here for latest Sony Xperia app updates.

Facing any issues with the app, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Sony introduces my Xperia Theft Protection (MXTP)

Sony has introduced a new security service called “my Xperia Theft Protection (MXTP)”. Well, the name must sound familiar to Xperia users as it matches with present available security feature “my Xperia” available on Xperia devices which work similar to Android Device Manager (from Google).

As we all know that if a phone is stolen and a clean wipe (like factory reset or OS removed) then security features like “Android Device Manager” or “my Xperia” becomes useless, exactly to address this issue Sony has come up with my Xperia Theft Protection (MXTP).

my Xperia Theft Protection (MXTP)

What is it?

my Xperia Theft Protection (MXTP) service is added to the bootloader of Xperia device therefore if the OS of the device is removed (or a factory reset has been made) then MXTP will remain active and your Xperia device will be secured.

How? Bootloader is needed to start the OS on the device but it is not the part of the OS itself so MXTP remains as it is (as it is added to the bootloader of the Xperia device).

Which Phones are supported?

For the time being MXTP is available only in three handsets and we can expect it to arrive on others in future firmware updates.

Xperia M4 Aqua.
Xperia C4.
Xperia Z4 Tablet.

How to setup MXTP?

MXTP will come as a part of the system setup guide on above-mentioned devices so you should set it up while starting the device for the first time if not done then follow the steps posted below.

Navigate to settings menu > security > tap on “Protection by my Xperia”

Tap on “Activate” in my Xperia screen > Agree to Sony’s Terms and Conditions.

After activating it, my Xperia Theft Protection service is enabled on your device.

How to Deactivate MXTP?

If you want to deactivate the MXTP then the only person who has access to your signed in Google Account on your device can deactivate.

Navigate to settings menu > security > tap on “Protection by my Xperia”

Tap on “Deactivate” button > Confirm the Deactivation > Sign in with your Google Account to deactivate the MXTP on your device.

NOTE: Failing to enter your “Google Log in” details correct within 5 attempts, your Xperia device will automatically enter in “Lockdown” stage.

What is Lockdown stage?

Lockdown stage is detected when some unauthorized user is trying to access your device via some serious methods like disabling MXTP.

What triggers Lockdown stage?

Lockdown will trigger itself it steps like mentioned below are performed on the device in any case.

Firmware repair using PC Companion or any other FlashTools.
Doing a full factory/master reset.
Deleting the Google account used for enabling MXTP on the device.
Disabling MXTP in the settings menu and providing false details of Google account.
Removing the administrator rights of MXTP or deleting it.
Triggering Lockdown using MyXperia in a web browser (with the correct login credentials).

What will happen in Lockdown stage?

Device will become completely useless unless correct Google details are entered to validate the identity of the user.

All runnings apps will be stopped.
Outgoing calls are blocked (except Emergency calls).
Incoming calls are sent to voicemail (if activated).
USB port can only be used for charging and it will not be detected by the PC or the Mac for software repair.
Notification panel can no longe rbe maximized.

Sony clearly mentioned “This also applies to a software repair or flash. Lockdown will remain in effect until the user has validated the device. Reloading software, rebooting the device or manipulating the persistent storage will not disable the service.”

How to exit Lockdown stage or How to Unlock Protected Xperia device?

Sign in with the Google account which was used at the time of enabling the MXTP.

Check out the various FQA on MXTP by Sony on the source link mentioned at the end of the post.

Sony has done a great job for users by providing this bootloader level security feature. What do you think? Let us know. Drop your comments below.

Source – Sony Mobile | Image Credits: raymond016 (XDA)

Xperia Z3+ Keyboard 6.7.A.0.10 app available for Lollipop & KitKat devices

A few days back Sony updates its keyboard app to new 6.6.A.0.30 version on Play Store which was a major update and brought new features like larger spacebar for easier typing, numeric row for the input of numbers on tablets, new language support for Armenian, Azerbaijani, Belarusian, Georgian, and Tatar and Phonepad layout for Xperia Z2.

On the available system dump of Xperia Z3+ Lollipop firmware, Keyboard app 6.7.A.0.10 version was spotted and now it is available for install on all Android devices running Lollipop and KitKat.

Sony Xperia Keyboard app

Instructions:

Root Needed.
Custom Recovery (Preferred).
For only Lollipop & KitKat running Android ROMs.

For Lollipop ROMs, Download here or use the link below.

For KitKat ROMs, Download here or use the link below.

How to Install?

1st Method: Flash zip files via recovery.

Download the above posted flashable zip files.
Reboot in recovery and flash the zip files, reboot your device.
Do not forget to enable “Xperia Keyboard” as your keyboard under language & input settings.

2nd Method: Manual Installation

For Lollipop ROMs

Extract all the contents of the downloaded zip file.
Now put the “textinput-tng” folder into /system/app (with apk & lib inside it).
Set correct permissions and reboot,

For KitKat 4.4 ROMs

Extract all the contents of the downloaded zip file.
Now put the “textinput-tng” folder into /system/app
Now put the “libswiftkeysdk-java.so” into /system/lib
Give correct permissions and reboot.

Note

If you are facing any issue with installing or download language pack then look for the solution here.
Want to add a numeric keypad above the alphabetic keyboard then look for the solution here.

If it works on your device, let us know. Drop your comments below.

Source – XDA (shared by bejunk /*Great Job*/)

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