The Sony Xperia Z1 is the pride of the Japanese tech company and now the latest 2013 flagship smartphone boasting 20.7 MP camera, 2.2 GHz Snapdragon 800 CPU and 5 inches of BRAVIA screen. But before you buy this powerful device, know the best buying tips for Xperia Z1.

Source: Sony Mobile

1. Retail Stores

Sony products aren't as common as with Samsung and you must determine which local retail store in your area supplies Xperia smartphones. Thankfully, the Xperia Z1 is likely to become available in several shops similar with the Xperia Z, but it is recommended to double check them just to be sure.

2. Network Carrier

Contact your network provider if you want to upgrade to Xperia Z1 and know every single detail about the new contract. Do not forget to bring the needed information such as account statement, data usage history and data plan to avoid getting confused on your next bill. The Xperia Z1 itself is expensive, so expect an increase on your next contract.

3. Online Purchase

Usually, online purchases are cost effective compared to direct purchases from a network carrier especially for first timers. Check popular Web sites such as BestBuy and Amazon if Xperia Z1 is being offered and get the best deal possible. Online purchases are subject to changes and shipment duration, so take note of these factors.

4. Discounts and Freebies

Don't buy right away. Instead, take time to search for other suppliers because you may be surprised by discounts and freebies. Moreover, wait for retail shops and online suppliers to post their best offers once Xperia Z1 has arrived. Sometimes, they feature limited time offer on certain high-end smartphones.

5. Shipment Time

You may get too excited once you see an available and sufficient supply of Sony Xperia Z1 but don't forget that your purchase may be subject to shipment. Collect and select retailers with the shortest shipment period according to your convenience.

6. Service Centres

The Xperia Z1 may be powerful, but bugs and issues may happen anytime which will require you to pay a visit to the nearest service centre. Consider the distance of your retailer and their recommended service centre around your area. In addition, know the details on how long or how the warranty procedure works according to their terms. You are not going to like waiting for several months just to have a simple problem repaired.

7. Unlocking its Bootloader

As of now, do not consider the bootloader unlocking procedure of the Xperia Z1. Sony is currently fixing a bug on the device's camera application once the bootloader has been unlocked. If you have an Xperia Z1 seller with unlocked bootloader, double check the camera, wireless connection, text messaging, voice calls and everything inside out to ensure no problems are plaguing the device.

8. Check Reviews

Watch or read reviews online so you'll know every aspect of the device before you purchase it. The Xperia Z1 is powerful but it cannot please everybody which means you need to at least research the device especially the colour variant you want to buy.

9. Firmware Update

Check the Sony Mobile Web site for the latest on the Xperia Z1 before purchasing. Recently, the device received an official update with firmware build 14.1.G.1531 which is a minor upgrade. Upon purchase, go to the device's "Settings > About phone > Build number" to determine if it has the latest version so you'll know if any bugs are repairable by an update.

10. Bugs and Issues

Last but not the least is the effect of bugs on the Xperia Z1. Know the strengths and weaknesses on the device before buying it so you'll know where you stand. This also prevents you from wasting money in case you do not like it. Sony will release an update for the Xperia Z1 including the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean and Android 4.4 KitKat to fix more bugs and improve overall system performance.

The Sony Xperia Z1 is likely more expensive than Xperia Z smartphone, but the selling point of the device, aside from top-notch hardware, is the eligibility and priority it has to get the next-generation Android OS.