V for Verizon: Hands-on with the Sony Xperia Z3v

Verizon Sony Xperia Z3v
Smartphones
By Phil Nickinson | Oct 09 2014 | 4:11 pm  | 104 Comments

Sony's latest flagship comes to the states on Oct. 23

Verizon and Sony today in New York City unveiled the Xperia Z3v, the first version of the latest flagship from Sony (you'll recall we're really not all that far removed from its last one) to hit the United States. (Don't worry, T-Mobile fans, your time's still coming. Eventually.)

Anyhoo. For the most part we're looking at the same device here. It's got a 5.2-inch TRILUMINOS display at 1080p, and it looks mighty nice. It's got a Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor inside. You have 32GB of on-board storage, plus a micro SD card. (And Verizon is tossing in 25GB of its own cloud storage.)

Sony Xperia Z3v with wireless charging

Plus, it's got wireless charging. Proper Qi charging. That also makes the phone just a tad thicker than its European cousins (we're digging out our calipers to figure just how much), but it still feels extremely svelte in the hand. That's a no-brainer of a trade-off. The battery spec also has ticked up just a notch, to a whopping 3,200 mAh — seriously, that's a lot of power in a really slim phone — so there's that.

Hands-on video

More: Read our complete Xperia Z3 and Z3 Compact review

Software hasn't changed any from the Euro versions, with Sony's custom job and custom apps on board. Plus you've got all of the Verizon ware that's fit to bloat, including the Amazon suite and NFL Mobile.

On the camera front, we're looking at the same 20.7-megapixel (you read that right) shooter.

But it's the PlayStation integration that really stands out, including and especially Remote Play. If you're a PS4 fan here in the states, this will definitely be a phone you want to check out.

Verizon's offering up the Xperia Z3v on Oct. 23 in all of its usual channels.

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Phil Nickinson

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Reader comments

V for Verizon: Hands-on with the Sony Xperia Z3v

104 Comments
I_Am_Incredible

Definitely Using the Z2 chasis that leaked a few months ago. Definitely not the new Z3 design. Metal bands gone in favor of plactic Assuming this is needed for wireless charging

twolastnames

This is correct. And I would think preferred, glass back, metal sides seems slippery.

Posted via the Android Central App

pjs312

I doubt the plastic is for wireless charging, Sony also did this for the Z1S which didn't have wireless charging.

Posted via the Android Central App

I_Am_Incredible

Because tmobile is cheap and wanted a cheaper made device. The point is you can't have wireless charging with metal. Thaats part of the reason the Z3V is plastic

twolastnames

Yes you can, it just can't be metal backed. The Note 4 is going to have charging back, and it has metal sides.

Posted via the Android Central App

Joe Goodwin1

I just left Verizon for T-Mobile but I assure you (though you do know this) Verizon has the best overall service, so you do get what you pay for. Just like any other services or commodities

Posted via the Android Central App

ajnevares

Same here, left Verizon for T-Mobile but was back on Verizon within two weeks...too many dropped calls and constantly dropping to 2G, but it was nice having unlimited data again. T-Mobile was definitely faster than Verizon in several areas here in AZ, but just did not work in several places indoors where Verizon worked well. It's too bad, really wanted T-Mobile to work out.

rgao007

Wait, really? Congrats man, I thought you were the worst VZW fanboy of em all

Posted via the Android Central App

thatguy97

The one thing you say I can agree on

Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or verizon Galaxy S5 or maybe one day through my moto 360

A895

OMG. This changes everything. On Verizon? I am flabbergasted.

Posted via the Android Central App

Mobius360

Seems so strange that the event turned I to a Verizon only event.

Should have launched the T-Mobile version as well and showed off the tablet and compact as being available unlocked on the Sony website.

I'm glad Verizon is getting g the Z3 though too

Posted via Android Central App w/G2

Mobius360

I suppose you're correct. When it was announced it seemed like a Sony event and not a Sony/Verizon event.

Interesting you said it felt rushed as they had plenty of time from the announcement.

Posted via Android Central App w/G2

Wollombi

This. Still no announcement on T-Mobile availability, and even worse, no given date on U.S. availability of unlocked models from Sony. This is ridiculous, since half the damn planet can buy this already. I've been sitting here with cash in hand waiting to buy the phone since early September. This just rubs our faces in it. Screw Verizon, and screw whatever assist at Sony decided to not launch a flagship product worldwide (truly worldwide) as soon as the phone was announced. Sony is risking loss of sales, as those who want to buy these phones unlocked will lose patience, if they haven't already, and spend their money on a competitor's products.

Posted via the Android Central App

twolastnames

It's phone man. And your insane to be this upset about a Sony phone getting released late in the States, that's how it goes.

Posted via the Android Central App

Wollombi

Yeah, I know it's just a phone. I am admit I'm a little more upset than maybe I should be, but I need to replace my phone before it's completely dead, and this is the one I want. The Z1 compact won't work on AT&T everywhere, and while I like the Z2, there are some gotchas holding me back. Sony releases this to great hype in September, and then teases us on their website over and over but doesn't actually deliver. My angst, while possibly a little too intense, is not unwarranted.

eao1991

I was ready to dump my G3 for the Z3 based on earlier rumors of it coming to VZW. After todays reveal though I'll probably skip on it and may get the Note 4. I don't use wireless charging and am not a fan of them using a Z2 body...even if it has Z3 internals.

Also, I remember earlier this year a photo of a Verizon branded Z2 leaked that was taken on some rocks. Looks like Verizon decided to hold off on releasing that Z2 just to have Sony upgrade the internals.

A895

I don't understand nothing that you said. This is the Z3, just slightly thicker with wireless charging.

Posted via the Android Central App

A895

Thank you Captain. No one would have figured it out without you pointing it out.

Posted via the Android Central App

Abel Arango

"I didn't understand anything you said" lol

He made perfect sense! It's not the original Z3 body, it's more like the Z

Posted via Android Central App

twolastnames

Seriously? It's hardly any different. Of course, every Z3v owner I see, I will mock profusely for having closer to a Z2 body (of course their response will be "Who the hell is Phil Fish"?). Sheesh.

liteon163

Wireless charging will certainly come in handy once people get tired of opening the waterproof flap covering the microUSB port. Overall though, this phone isn't a big enough step up from my LG G2 to justify upgrading.

lindseybp

Definitely does not look as nice as the normal Z3. Kind of disappointed. Will be interested to see official size specs to see just how much larger it is than the Z3.

jorgeix

I've been switching back and forth between HTC and Samsung phones for the last few few years, Note 2, Note 3, M7, currently red M8, while I have enjoyed and love all of them with all the features and lack there of, I think I'm ready for something different, specially coming from Sony, which has been for year one of my favorite brand for electronics. I will definitely come to a VZ store to meet this phone in person.

Wollombi

At least you can buy a Z3. Sony keeps giving would-be U.S. buyers the big middle finger. :-/

Posted via the Android Central App

Mohamed Ihab Talaat

Too bad, was hoping for a GSM Z3 Compact at a reasonable price. Just placed my order to import one + 64G SD + Magnetic charger + USB magnetic cable.

ultravisitor

To lock you in. Duh. Once you've got your stuff stored, it will be a pain in the ass to move unless it's already backed up elsewhere.

thatguy97

It's been this way for a while since the one x and beyond I think

Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or verizon Galaxy S5 or maybe one day through my moto 360

fightcrazy

That Verizon, very large Verizon branding on the top front of the device is horror. They really know how to ruin a beautiful device. Not for nothing but then you turn it over and it;s freaken there also. I am in shock how they ruined the look of a beautiful device. Verizon is scum for doing that.

Wollombi

There is no protective film on the glass starting with the Z2 onward.

Posted via the Android Central App

thegrants82

Wow and I was all hung yup on the turbo but now the z3.........hmmm. I really need to read, I never expected the z3 on verizon.

zero3187

I feel the exact same way. Ugh well at least I have until March to do my research.

Posted via Android Central App

onesojourner

I didn't really expect it but I was hoping for the compact. Oh well. Maybe one day verizon will get another good small form factor phone.

Retinella

I was looking forward to the Note 4, then I saw this phone. I'm definitely getting the Z3v because it's waterproof and dustproof.

SoCalBIGmike

Why were you not considering the Galaxy S5 then? I don't understand people who compare things that are not even in the same class.

Vic Rivera

I enjoyed the Z2, but now I'm looking forward to the Z3 and see what the difference. Also, compare it the iPhone.

Phone junkie

vansmack

Can't wait for the Podcast take on this...

Part of me thinks Alex's gut reaction to the Z3 "update" will pale in comparison to Sony's big America move being a VZW exclusive with a hybrid Z2/Z3 device.

Why Sony, do you hate America so?

jonoave

I really don't get folks in US. What's stopping people from picking up a unlocked T-mobile or regular unlocked phone from Sony right now?

When Sony didn't sign any carrier lock phones in the past, posters were moaning that Sony doesn't care about the US since most phones are sold through carriers. Now that Sony does, apparenly it's stupid to offer carrier exlusive devices (even though there are still unlocked options).

Raw Bean

Americans are not raised the way people from other countries are. Cellphones start booming in the US when mortar-and-brick electronic stores start to decline. If it held on a little bit longer, they'll have a say on how cellphones are sold as significant as the carriers, like in other countries.

Posted via Android Central App

vansmack

The Z2 was released in March 2014, came to America in July of 2014 - by then we all knew the Z3 was right around the corner. Why would I buy a 4 month old phone when Sony has a 6 month refresh cycle?!

Now they're delaying the GSM Z3 for this Verizon exclusive, and I'm going to be in the same dilemma. Contrary to what you might believe, I can't go to Sony. Com and buy a Z3. My only option is to import a more expensive version with no warranty. Please.

Posted via Android Central App

jonoave

Sorry I don't really understand your problem

What GSM Z3 are you waiting for? This Verizon version is Z3 internals with a Z2 casing and Z2 battery, and added with wirelss charging.

I'm sorry that you're bound to the choices of phones by your carrier, but what do you expect phone manufacturers to do?

vansmack

I want the phone that Alex Dobie has had for 3 weeks. Sony should sell that to me, directly if they have to, or through a carrier as an alternative, but they have consistently chosen not to do so (and definitely not in a timely manner).

You do know that the Verizon version is not GSM, right? It's CDMA and locked to Verizon.

If you're on GSM in America, you cannot buy a Z3 - and we don't know how long we have to wait. If it's another 4 month delay like the Z2, we're all going to pass again.

jonoave

Sorry I'm not from the US and I don't really understand your GSM/CDMA problem.

Doesn't Alex Dobie (in UK) have the international version, which is available from the Sony US store right now? Why can't you get that?

jonoave

I saw someone posted an unlocked version that is coming to T-mobile. So maybe you can keep a lookout for that.

Over on Amazon US, I see there are Xperia Z3 unlocked versions available with 1 year warranty so that's probably a good option for you.

Wollombi

NO! There is NO version of he Z3 available to purchase in Sony's U.S. stores or online store right now and NO word from Sony if or when this will change. They keep jacking up their site with "New" banners (on the Z3C) and "Buy Now" buttons (showed up today for the Z3), but clicking only takes you to a pre-register area or an incomplete product page with no option to add to your cart and actually buy the damn thing, which is only teasing/passing off those who, you know, want to actually buy the phone which is available in most of the rest of the world - including India for crying out loud - right now. Problem is it's more expensive to import and you lose your warranty doing so.

Posted via the Android Central App

Wollombi

Point being that 3rd world countries are able to get this phone, but buyers in the world's largest single economy can't. Great business move, Sony.

HussainQ

This is exactly what the Z2 should have been! Looks great. Although, it is missing the magnetic charging port. No biggie I guess.

carraser891

Verizon branding and logos blah blah blah...how beaten up can a comment possibly get before you just sound stupid saying it...

Posted via the Android Central App

t0ked

Are people really that hung up on a friggin logo? I could care less about logos, verizon or otherwise. People need to get over it. When buying used phones off eBay, I appreciate the logo because then I know it will work (figuring esn is clean).

Anyway, I was planning on getting the turbo, but started thinking, I really wish it came with a SD card slot. And bam, this article catches my eye... I may be giving this Sony a shot come January...

bhatech

Why can't the morons just take how the Z3 is? Why do they want to change the design, add ugly logos. I mean they don't have any taste? The device logos ugly with so much branding.

Posted via the Android Central App

gatorboi352

Yes. Let me play PS4 games on my touchscreen smartphone....

*goes back to playing Bayonetta 2 on Wii U*

Posted via Android Central App

Naos

What a facepalm! I was expecting some more carriers or at least different colour options. But no, only the most boring one - black, that doesn't even look like Z3 and with some horror Verizon logo. I don't get US market really. Even in Poland we have Z3 in 3 colours (copper, white, black) at three main carriers. In UK also plenty of colour options.

I guess after few months Verizon will tell "yeah we put it on sale but it didn't sell at all, Sony phones won't sell... bla bla" and other carriers will be "yeah we knew that from the start we've made good decision not to offer it".

I mean, something's wrong with US telecom market, US - the temple of commerce and you get so limited choice. Meh.

rews

totally agree. The regular Z3 is just amazing, why did Sony allow this meddling, unless Verizon forced it. You're absolutely right, the US telecoms definitely have something wrong with them.

Ry

IIRC, most flagships with removable backs have had a Qi back cover available from Verizon. The DROIDs from last year have Qi. I remember my Bionic having it optional as well.

I'm not surprised Verizon got Z3 variant with Qi.

Posted via Android Central App (Moto X)

Retinella

The biggest complaint people have is the lack of color options? Really? That's your complaint?

#FirstWorldProblems

thatguy97

No its not just spec whores talking

Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or verizon Galaxy S5 or maybe one day through my moto 360

lazerproof

There is a big difference in efficiency, performance, and technology between Qualcomm 801 and 805. You're acting like a little apple fanboy that buys anything and everything without knowing what it is.

rews

More USA carrier meddling. Leave it to the US carriers' bad relationship with Sony to what looks to be them forcing design compromises from the better looking original Z3. The standard Z3 has more premium materials. wt f Verizon? I cannot believe Sony would willingly downgrade the look of this phone unless VZN asked them to.