Sony Xperia Z2 records 4K video

Sony has launched the latest iteration of its Xperia Z-line of flagship Android smartphones. The Xperia Z2 looks like a solid upgrade to the Z1 but overall the changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary. At 5.2-inches, the Z2's 1080p display is slightly larger than the Z1's 5-inch variant and the edges on the new model are a little more rounded, but the design with the the glass panels encased in an aluminium frame hasn't changed much. At 8.2mm the new model is a touch slimmer but still waterproof and dust-resistant to the same standards as before (IP55 & IP58).

Under the hood things are now powered by the same components that you can also find in the new Xperia Tablet Z2. A Snapdragon S801 quad-core processor and 3GB RAM should allow for smooth operation of Android 4.4 and the 16GB of built-in storage can be expanded via a MicroSD-slot.

The Z2's glass front and back are encased in a one-piece aluminium frame.	The new model is capable of recording 4K video.
The external stereo-microphone STM10 looks like an interesting accessory for serious videographers.	The SmartBand SWR10 connects to Sony's Lifelogging app.

With a 20.7 MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor the camera specifications look identical to the Z1 but the new model is now capable of recording 4K video. For those who are serious about video recording Sony also offers the external stereo-microphone STM10. 

While the camera hardware looks the same as in the previous generation, some new software features are available in the camera app:

• Timeshift Video captures at 120 frames and allows you to slow down portions of your footage for dramatic effect.
• Creative Effect offers a range of new effects for both video and stills, including color, image trails, mirror and motion effects.
• Background Defocus simulates a shallow depth of field by capturing two photos at different focus settings and blending them.
• AR Effect was already available for still images on the Z1 but works now with video, too. It adds augmented reality animations to your images and video.
• Vine4 creates short video loops that are easily shareable. 

The Xperia Z2 also comes with the same noise-cancelling technology as the Tablet Z2. Ambient noise can be reduced by up to 98% when the device is used with the new MDR NC31EM noise canceling headset. Along with the Z2 Sony also launched the SmartBand SWR10 that talks to the Lifelog app on your Android smartphone via Bluetooth and NFC. By doing so it creates a diary of your activities and also measures your sleep cycle and vibrates to notify you of calls, messages, tweets or other events. 

Key-specifications:

• Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 2.3 GHz quad-core processor
• Android 4.4 KitKat
• 3GB RAM
• 16GB storage, MicroSD support up to 64GB
• 5.2-inch Full-HD (1920 x 1200) TRILUMINOS display
• 20.7 MP 1/2.3-inch Exmor RS for mobile CMOS sensor
• 4K video recording  (3840×2160 pixels/30p)
• 2.2 MP front camera
• Dust-resistant and waterproof (IP55 & IP58)
• NFC
• 3200 mAh battery