Android 17 arrives on Xperia 1 VIII: Desktop Mode debuts, along with camera updates

Sony has kicked off the rollout of Android 17, and the first device to receive it is Xperia 1 VIII. The update brings with it one of the most anticipated features in recent years for the brand’s smartphones: a true Desktop Mode, designed to transform the phone into a computer-like experience when connected to an external display.

Sony Xperia 1 VIII: what’s changing with the Android 17 update

The rollout, started with firmware 73.1.A.2.61, weighs about 1.2 GB and began initially in Europe, with expansion to other regions expected soon. Those who already own Xperia 1 VIII can check the update availability by opening the Settings app and going to the dedicated software updates section, where you can initiate a manual check.

The main new feature of Android 17 on the Xperia 1 VIII is precisely the Desktop Mode, which allows you to use the phone with an interface designed for larger screens.

Alongside it comes a redesigned Quick Settings panel, which lets you resize and reorganize the individual sections, as well as show brief descriptions on the larger tiles to quickly understand what each quick toggle is for.

More personalization, from wallpapers to screen recording

With the update, there are also new wallpapers and updated clock face designs, as well as the ability to customize the shape and size of icons to make the interface more tailored.

A screen recording feature also debuts, capable of capturing the entire display or a single app, with the possibility of recording simultaneously the device’s audio and the microphone.

AI Camera Assistant: up to three personalized looks

Among the photography features, Xperia 1 VIII introduces AI Camera Assistant, which allows saving up to three personalized looks, each with a name chosen by the user, storing color tones and preferred settings to quickly recall in subsequent shots.

Which other Xperia devices will receive Android 17

Besides the current flagship, Sony has confirmed that the Android 17 update is planned for other devices as well, though there are currently no precise timelines for arrival on these models:

• Xperia 1 VII
• Xperia 1 VI
• Xperia 10 VIII
• Xperia 10 VII

For all the news about the brand’s ecosystem, you can find our most recent articles in the Sony section of GizChina.it.