Sony Xperia ZR can take underwater video

If you buy a new smartphone, the chances are you will want to ensure it doesn't get wet, even in a heavy rain shower. Sony are trying to turn all this around by releasing the Xperia ZR which can not only handle being dropped into water, but will be able to record high definition video in the same conditions.

This isn't the first waterproof Sony gadget, following on after the Xperia Z, however this model has a slightly smaller display (4.6 inches) and features improved contrast and anti glare properties.

The Xperia ZR is IP55 and IP58 compliant, meaning it is both water and dust resistant. Sony claim it can withstand being submerged in 4.9 foot of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. It also has a dedicated camera key that allow you take videos and pictures underwater, or if the screen is locked.

The 13 megapixel camera has a 16x digital zoom and can take high definition video using the Sony ‘Exmor RS for mobile' image sensor with High Dynamic Range (HDR). This takes images at varying exposure levels and then combines them into one optimised image. There is also a noise reduction and burst mode which can take 15 images at a time.
[yframe url='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDuYUlHc1r4′]

The Xperia ZR runs on Android 4.1 and is powered with a 1.5ghza quad core Snapdragon chipset (APQ8064 and MDM9215M) with Adreno 320 graphics. The 4.6 inch screen is powered by the Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2 with a resolution of 1280×720 pixels and uses an OptiContrast panel designed to reduce reflections and to create a pure black display when the phone is off.

Inside is 8GB of storage, 4.6gb of which is free and a Micro SD card slot to add your own extra storage. There is a one button function button which uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to pair the phone to other NFC enabled devices, including speakers, headphones and even televisions.

Kitguru says: No pricing announced yet, but we wouldn't imagine it will be cheap.

Become a Patron!