Sony has started rolling out the Android 16 update to its flagship Xperia 1 VII, just as the device returns to shelves following a short pause over software glitches. The update, while significant on paper, lands with a lighter touch than some expected.
The Xperia 1 VII originally shipped with Android 15. Now, firmware version 71.1.A.2.68 brings Android 16 to the device in a 1.1GB download. The rollout began in Europe and is available through the usual path: Settings > System > Software update. Sony has promised four major OS upgrades and six years of security support, meaning the phone should be supported up to Android 19.
The update delivers several useful features but avoids a dramatic redesign. Unlike Google’s Pixel phones, Sony has skipped the Material 3 Expressive look, leaving the interface close to what users already had on Android 15. The most noticeable change is a redesigned system settings app, while most other UI elements stay minimal and familiar.
On the feature side, Android 16 adds Google’s Advanced Protection, which users must enable manually. Once active, it blocks unsafe apps, flags scam calls, and warns against risky websites. Notifications are grouped more intelligently, support for hearing aids has improved, and users can now capture and share HDR screenshots.
Still, some features are missing. Live Updates, Google’s real-time push notifications for things like deliveries, aren’t present. The security patch also remains at August 2025, without a September update included yet.
Even without sweeping changes, Sony has beaten rivals like OnePlus to a stable Android 16 release. With the Snapdragon 8 Elite, 12GB RAM, and up to 512GB storage, the Xperia 1 VII remains a powerful option — and Sony’s quicker update cycle may help polish its reputation for software support.
Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
(Source)
Comments