Sony outs new Xperia PRO, world’s first smartphone with HDMI

Sony Electronics Inc. introduced a new professional 5G device, Xperia PRO that enables content creators to work faster and smarter than ever before. Featuring the world’s first smartphone with dedicated HDMI connectivity, it supports 5G mmWave and 5G Sub-6 for high-speed data transfer and is engineered to optimize signal reception. These innovative features pave the way for the future of imaging and the content creation workflow.

“We are committed to developing innovative tools for professional content creators,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president of Imaging Products and Solutions Americas, Sony Electronics. “Combining the speed of 5G and the connectivity of an HDMI input, Xperia PRO is designed to empower creators with real-time content sharing and distribution, opening up a new world of possibilities for a professional workflow. Together, Alpha and Xperia bring the future of digital imaging, sharing imaging data and connecting people remotely in real-time.”

HDMI connectivity

Xperia PRO is the world’s first smartphone with a dedicated HDMI input – allowing users to enhance their workflow by connecting the device to an Alpha camera or any other HDMI input equipped camera to enable a 5G data link to broadcast video in real-time. Using compatible third-party live streaming applications, Xperia PRO can stream video content from a camera that is connected to the HDMI input to an RTMP server or directly to popular social media platforms.

Xperia PRO’s HDMI input can also transform the smartphone into a high-quality 6.5-inch 4K OLED monitor through the preinstalled External Monitor host application software. The External Monitor feature features a screen lock function, screen brightness adjustment, zoom capabilities, adjustable grid lines and more.

Stable high-speed data transfer

A wired USB connection enhances the speed and stability of still image file transfer between the phone and camera. Connect your Alpha brand camera to the Xperia PRO mobile device through the USB connection and the images can be automatically transferred to an FTP server. With this type of fast and reliable transfer, and you can concentrate on capturing the best shots.

Optimized design for dependable reception  

The Xperia PRO features a 360-degree antenna design, which covers all four sides of the device. This 360-degree antenna produces the most effective way to capture high-band frequency 5G mmWave signals. In addition, the low dielectric constant material used in the chassis of the Xperia PRO enables radio waves to pass through more easily. Together, these technologies help ensure optimized 5G signal strength connection, no matter how the user is holding the device or where it’s positioned.

The Network Visualizer feature developed for Xperia PRO provides easy-to-understand visualization of the signal direction, communication method and communication speed of the device to help camera operators on location locate the best spot for live transmissions.

This feature shows the current signal reception, indicates the direction of the 5G signal that is being received and provides communication throughput and histogram. A shortcut button is located on the side of the Xperia PRO, which can be assigned to launch a frequently used feature including Network Visualizer.

Outstanding imaging technology for content creators

Xperia PRO packs in all of the same industry-leading imaging technology as the Xperia 1 II flagship smartphone, which makes it – even as a standalone device – a powerful tool for photography and video content creation. Because the Xperia PRO is always with you, professionals and other content creators will never miss an opportunity to create high quality, professional-level content or share that content in real-time – even without a professional camera on hand.

Developed with Sony’s Alpha camera engineers, the Xperia PRO integrates technology such as Real-time AF (autofocus) on both humans and animals. It also features an interface designed to meet the demands of professional photographers with a variety manual controls, the capability to shoot up to 20fps with 60 times per second autofocus/autoexposure calculations and RAW support.

Drawing on the expertise of Sony’s Digital Cinema Camera engineers, the Xperia PRO offers a range of tools to enhance filmmaking. Users can get creative with Look color management pre-sets, 21:9 movie recording, 4K HDR in 24, 30, 60 and 120fps slow-motion and Intelligent wind filter. The 6.5-inch 4K HDR OLED display features a 21:9 CinemaWide aspect ratio and supports the BT.2020 color space.

Reliable performance

Robust and durable, the Xperia PRO combines IP65/68 rating water and dust resistance with Corning Gorilla Glass 6 on the front for protection.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G Mobile Platform and the Snapdragon X55 5G Modem-RF system empowers the user to game, capture, cross-task and connect with staggering multi-gigabit 5G speeds and improved performance from a 25% faster CPU and GPU than on the previous Xperia model.

With a long lasting 4.000mAh battery, the Xperia PRO gets the job done. It is compatible with the optional UCH32C Fast Charger to quickly top-up when the battery is running low. It also has two technologies to keep the battery healthy longer. Battery Care prevents the phone from overcharging, while Xperia Adaptive Charging monitors the phone as it charges to make sure the battery isn’t overworked.

Pricing and availability

The new Xperia PRO 5G device will be available to purchase and ship to customers on January 26, 2021 and will be sold for approximately US$ 2,499.99. Customers can purchase Xperia PRO at a select group of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

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Fun and functional gadgets for a more productive workspace

01/30/2024

Dull desk? Boring work environment? Say no more! We’ve curated a list of gadgets that will not only add a touch of flair to your desk but will also supercharge your productivity.

From futuristic digital clocks to sleek wireless charging stations, these items are not just functional – they’re fun too. Dive into the world of desk upgrades and discover how these gadgets can transform your workspace.

Divoom Times Gate

The Divoom Times Gate is a scene-stealer on any desk. It’s a futuristic digital clock that has five colorful displays capable of showing pixel art, GIFs, and even notifications from different apps.

With the accompanying app, you can customize what you can display, create alerts, or set the display to show notifications if the Times Gate is paired to your phone. With the ability to sync with devices, you can achieve a cool ambient light effect that can get you in the mood to work or play.

Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Self-watering plant pot

Taking care of plants or having some sort of greenery around you can be a great way to de-stress and boost your mood. And being away from home doesn’t mean you can’t take care of a little bud on your desk.

A self-watering pot takes the hassle out of plant care and if you’re in the office, it’s much more manageable.
Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Anker 332 USB-C Hub

The Anker 332 USB-C hub can connect all of your devices to your laptop with just one cable.

It boasts a 5-in-1 setup, including a 4K HDMI port, USB-C and USB-A data ports, and a 100W PD-IN port for robust pass-through charging. With speeds up to 5 Gbps, file transfers are a breeze and with the HDMI port, you can attach up to a 4K eternal monitor.

Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

JBL GO 3

A small portable speaker is often a must-have in any work/school bag because, let’s face it, you never know when you need to blast something out loud. Whether it’s some me-time catching up on shows over lunch or a sudden office karaoke sesh with colleagues, the GO 3 can support.

The ultra-portable design JBL GO 3 is stylish, waterproof, and dustproof, and can churn out up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge.

Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Pomodoro desk timer

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that involves working in 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between. This timer can help you stay on track and avoid burnout and it’ll look pretty darn cool on your desk, too.

Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Ugreen RoboGan 65W USB charger

This little guy is a speedy, efficient sidekick thanks to cutting-edge GaN technology. And the fun part – it rocks a quirky robot design, complete with an LED display sporting various facial expressions to tell you all about its charging moods.

With not one, not two, but three ports (two USB-C and one USB-A) and different charging speeds to choose from, it’s your multitasking maestro, ready to juice up all your gadgets simultaneously and never getting caught without juice.

Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Divoom Ditoo Pro

Similar to the Times Gate but a little more subtle. Add a retro touch to your desk with this speaker and pixel art display. You can customize what it can display on-screen like an an angry ‘go-away’ emoji to warn your co-workers that you’re busy, notifications from apps, or even just sync to music while you work.

Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

HQOBZX Bamboo Wireless Charging Station

 

Elegant and functional — this bamboo hub not only charges your phone, AirPods, and Apple Watch but also sports a handy lamp and alarm clock. It’s a compact solution to declutter your space and stay organized. Crafted from eco-friendly bamboo, it adds a touch of style to your workspace.

Amazon US

Desk riser/organizer

There are plenty of these online but what’ll work best for you will depend on your space. Need something minimalist and aesthetic? Go for something eye-catching like this floating, backlit riser. Of course, you can always go the high-tech route and opt for something equipped with extra features like this one that comes with a wireless charger attached.

All else, you can go with something simple, elegant, and straight to the point.

realme Pad 2

Something we recently reviewed, the realme Pad 2 is an affordable pick if you’re looking for a simple everyday tablet. It’s capable of doing the dailies with no ease and packs a punch when it comes to visual and audio. Though not available in the US, you still have many options like the Xiaomi Pad 6 or an Amazon Fire HD tablet. Need something more full-powered? There’s always Apple and the iPad.

But generally, a tablet is a good addition to different workflows and workplaces since it can be used for a variety of tasks, such as reading documents, watching videos, and taking notes without the limitation of the tiny screen of a smartphone or the bulkiness of a PC or laptop.

realme Pad 2: Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Smartwatch

Not really a desk item but still a wonderful productivity booster with additional health features to boot.

As much as we’d love to suggest a specific smartwatch, there are multitudes to choose from and much of the decisions depends on your needs and style. Sporty and functional, go for a classic like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5. Want something a little more fashionable? Maybe something like the Huawei Watch GT 4. Simple and affordable? Can’t go wrong with something like the Xiaomi Smart Band 8.

Huawei Watch GT 4 Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH
Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Amazon US | Shopee PH | Lazada PH

Any way you go, the benefits of a smartwatch are already known: notifications keep you updated, health trackers help you monitor your fitness, and you have utility tools like timers, activity reminders, calendar pushes, and more features that are more than likely to find a place in your everyday work routine.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re hustling from home or conquering tasks at the office, investing in your workspace pays off big time. Elevate your daily grind with these cool and practical desk additions. Because a spruced-up desk is the first step towards a more productive and enjoyable workday.

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