Verizon's New 'Sony Xperia Z3v' vs. Xperia Z3 - Specifications, Features, Release Date, Deals And Price Review

Sony Xperia Z3v is the Verizon variant of the recently released incredible handset the Xperia Z3. However, Verizon's Xperia Z3v is not a replica of the Z3 available elsewhere. There are some significant changes to the Verizon version when compared to the original flagship version.

Phone Arena has penned down the exact differences and similarities between the devices. Here is a comparison of specifications, features and price.

Display And Design

The Sony Xperia Z3v features the same 5.2-inch display with 1,080 x 1,920 pixels resolution. In addition, the handset uses the same IPS TRILUMINOS display technology and Sony's X-Reality engine, similar to the flagship Xperia Z3.

When it comes to design, the Xperia Z3v is similar to Xperia Z2 more than the Xperia Z3. However, in the specifications department the Verizon version resembles the Xperia Z3. Like any other high-end Sony handset, the Verizon version also comes with a posh, premium finish. Furthermore, the handset comes with dust- and water-proof exterior and hence it is IP65 and IP68 certified. The original Z3, on the other hand, comes with IP68 certification. Moreover, the handset provides solid grip and it is quite comfortable on the hands because of the quality glass surfaces. Nevertheless, a bit of stretching is required to accommodate the 5.2-inch display in one hand.

Under The Hood

The software and hardware configurations of the Xperia Z3v are similar to the Xperia Z3. The device runs on Android v4.4 KitKat OS that is not overly customised like in the case of Samsung devices and, hence, the balance and the raw Android-experience is maintained. The Xperia Z3v is powered by a quad-core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 801) processor, clocked at 2.5 GHz and backed by a significant 3 GB of RAM and Adreno 330 for graphics.

Sony's Remote Play Service

The Verizon version also supports Sony's Remote Play service. This service lets PS4 console users to switch to the Xperia Z3v and proceed playing the games without any interruption. Moreover, the Dualshock 4 controller can also be used at the same time. This Remote Play service is gamers' dream come true. Plus, the handset is equipped well to handle and process all the 3D intensive game/app titles. As far as the memory goes, the Z3v offers 16 GB of in-built storage and microSD card support for expansion, whereas the original Z3 comes with a 32 GB variant along with the 16 GB option.

Camera

The same 20.7 MP rear-facing camera unit in Sony Xperia Z3v comes with Sony's Exmor RS sensor, a LED flash, umpteen shooting modes and 4K video recording capability. However, in the coming days we would know if there's any camera software tweaks introduced in the Verizon-only version.

Wireless Charging

Readers should note that, the Sony Xperia Z3v comes with built-in wireless charging facility and none of the other Z3 models come with this feature. Owing to the much-required wireless charging feature, the device's chassis is relatively thicker to accommodate it. This is indeed a small price to pay for the overall goodness.

Price, Deals And Release Date

Similar to the Xperia Z3, the Sony Xperia Z3v can be availed from Verizon for a two-year contract price of $199 upon release. According to Android Central, the Z3v's release date is slated for October 23. Moreover, Verizon is offering a good deal for the potential Xperia Z3v buyers. Readers with interest in purchasing the Xperia Z3v and Xperia Z2 Tablet can save $200. Coming to accessories/gears, the Sony SmartWatch 3 can be purchased for $249 and the CPW5 Wireless Portable Qi Power Supply is priced at $59. Besides, the DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller for gaming can be availed for $59 and the GCM10 Game Control Mount will set the buyers back by $39.

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