Sony’s upcoming Xperia phones have just surfaced online — and fans may want to wait before buying their next device. A new leak hints that Sony is preparing to launch two major models next year: the Xperia 1 VIII flagship and the Xperia 10 VIII mid-ranger.
Sony’s Next Xperia Phones Leak Online
According to a report from The Walkman Blog, Sony’s new Xperia phones have appeared in a SIM database. The listing shows six different model numbers — PM-1530-BV, PM-1531-BV, PM-1532-BV, PM-1533-BV, PM-1534-BV, and PM-1555-BV — which likely represent regional variants of the Xperia 10 VIII.
The same database also suggests that Sony’s next flagship, the Xperia 1 VIII, may come in multiple regional versions, including one that could be exclusive to Japan.
Right now, the details mostly stop at model numbers. However, the leak clearly indicates that Sony is working on both a high-end and a mid-range phone, following its usual release pattern from previous years.
Sony to Follow Its Naming Tradition
Sony seems to be sticking to its naming formula. Just as it launched the Xperia 1 VII and Xperia 10 VII earlier this year, the company is expected to bring out their successors in 2026. The leak even jokes that Sony might finally be trying to make its naming system “less confusing,” though that remains to be seen.
Sony Next Xperia: Expected Specs and Hardware
The Xperia 1 VIII is expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor — the same chipset rumoured to appear in the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. That means top-tier performance and strong efficiency, perfect for gaming and multimedia.
Meanwhile, the Xperia 10 VIII is rumoured to feature a Snapdragon 6 series chip, similar to its predecessor. This should give it decent mid-range performance with solid battery life.
Both phones are expected to feature OLED displays, Sony’s signature tall and slim design, and premium build quality. The flagship will likely offer advanced camera features, continuing Sony’s reputation for natural-looking photos and precise image control.
Software and Updates
Sony has already started rolling out the Android 16 update for the Xperia 10 VII in some regions, including Europe and Japan. Other models, like the Xperia 1 VI and Xperia 1 VII, are also receiving the update. This suggests the upcoming Xperia 1 VIII and 10 VIII will ship with the latest version of Android right out of the box.
Xperia Pricing Still a Concern
Many fans love Sony’s unique design language and photography features, but pricing continues to be a sticking point. The Xperia 1 VII, for example, launched at €1,499, which is higher than many flagship rivals like the iPhone 17 Pro priced at $1,099.
One fan summarized the dilemma well: “I quite like the Xperia 1 VII, it has a nice design, top-notch specs, and I’m a fan of Sony’s take on smartphone photography. However, the phone starts at €1,499, and that’s a huge deal for me.”
A New Generation on the Horizon
If these leaks are accurate, Sony’s next Xperia phones could arrive by mid-2026. The Xperia 1 VIII might bring improved performance and camera software, while the Xperia 10 VIII could appeal to those who want Sony’s design in a more affordable package.
