Sony Xperia 1 VIII and Xperia 10 VIII: early 2026 launch, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, Android 16 rollout

Early details about Sony’s next Xperia smartphones have surfaced, pointing to a 2026 launch. The company is preparing the flagship Xperia 1 VIII and the mid-range Xperia 10 VIII, successors to the Xperia 1 VII and 10 VII introduced earlier this year.

The information appears in a SIM registration database highlighted by The Walkman Blog. It lists six Xperia 10 VIII variants—PM-1530-BV, PM-1531-BV, PM-1532-BV, PM-1533-BV, PM-1534-BV and PM-1555-BV—likely regional editions of the same device. The database also mentions an additional Xperia 1 VIII version that is believed to target the Japanese market. The breadth of variants hints at a measured, well-planned rollout rather than a token refresh.

On the flagship side, the Xperia 1 VIII is set to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the same chip that is reportedly headed to Samsung’s Galaxy S26 line. As for the Xperia 10 VIII, expectations point to a Snapdragon 6‑series processor or a comparable platform, consistent with Sony’s approach to its mid-tier models. That path typically favors balanced performance over spec-sheet theatrics.

While Sony readies both phones, the current Xperia 10 VII has begun receiving the Android 16 update in several regions, including Europe and Japan. The rollout also covers last year’s flagships, the Xperia 1 VI and Xperia 1 VII. This steady software cadence keeps existing users engaged as the next generation takes shape.

Concrete specifications for the newcomers remain under wraps. Judging by previous generations, the Xperia 1 VIII is likely to keep the brand’s signature tall OLED display around 6.5 inches, deliver strong performance, and lean heavily on imaging features. The mid-range Xperia 10 VIII should offer a more compact body, an OLED panel, and the long battery life the series is known for. In short, expect refinement and continuity rather than a sharp change of course—even as the pressure from Apple and Samsung intensifies.

Both models are expected to be announced in the first half of 2026, with Sony doubling down on its distinctive design language and camera-first thinking while holding its ground in a crowded field.