Sony took the wraps off its much-awaited Xperia Z1 smartphone at the IFA 2013 and now the device is already up for pre-order in Europe.
Sony's online store has the 5-inch smartphone listed for pre-order in several European countries such as Germany, France, Spain, Sweden and the UK.
However, the Xperia Z1, which boasts of Sony's "unique TRILUMINOS Display for mobile, creating a wider palette of rich natural colours for an immersive viewing experience" is going to burn a deep hole in consumers' wallets, as the unlocked smartphone is priced quite steeply.
The smartphone is priced between $856 to $936, depending on the country. The cheapest pricing is in Germany where customers can pre-order the smartphone for €649 (approximately $856). Consumers in France, Spain (only black and white) and the Netherlands will have to shell out slightly more than their German counterparts. They can pre-order the smartphone for €699 (approximately $922). The smartphone is listed as "coming soon" in both the Netherlands and Italy. Folks in Sweden will be able to pre-order the Xperia Z1 for 5,995kr (approximately $903).
Unlike the refreshed Nexus 7 tablet, consumers in the UK will be able to get their hands on the Xperia Z1 smartphone faster than their U.S. counterparts by the look of things. While those in the U.S. wait, UK counterparts can pre-order the Xperia Z1 for £599 (approximately $936).
The Sony Xperia Z1 will be available in three color options: black, white and purple and Sony lets on that "Deliveries are expected to start at the end of September."
Moreover, consumers who pre-order the handset before Sept. 19 will get free express delivery.
Apart from Sony's online store, consumers in the UK who are looking for alternate options to can purchase the smartphone at a subsidized rate can check out several retailers. Phones4U is offering the smartphone in black and white and the best deal is for £46 (two-years on EE).
Unlocked-Mobiles is also taking pre-orders for the Xperia Z1, but unsubsidized, and has priced the smartphone at £564.98. It is offering the phone in black and white color options and will ship the orders by Sept. 16.
