Sony Xperia Z1 Update, Android Review By Staff Reporter | Oct 31, 2013 11:46 AM EDT The Sony Xperia Z1 has a new maintenance update released October 15 for Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. The company has been actively listening to its customerâs feedback to improve quality in its software areas. Sony has updated in areas of performance and stability. The Xperia Z1âs camera algorithm was updated to refine its Smart Social Camera platform. The Xperia Camera applications ( Burst Mode, AR Effect, Sweep Panorama, Superior Auto) were improved. The new firmware update was rolled out for both Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra.This is a premium 5-inch screen Android smartphone is quite big, featuring water resistant and dust design. An Exmor 1/2.3â 20.7MP RS camera with Bravia branded display are found in this model. The Xperia Z1 was built with the same components as Sonyâs other compact digital cameras to provide highest quality images. Z1 also is compatible with an Android smartphone attachable camera DSC-QX100 is a lens-style advanced CMOS sensor technology. The Sony Xperia Z1 is built in with quality auto for camera settings. SteadyShot⢠feature ensures taking stable photos. Its Social live feature connects the user via Facebook. Social live is a camera app for Sony Xperia Z1. Connections and Facebook friends can view video in real-time. PlayMemories Mobile camera app is a user friendly Android imaging sharing app for download at the Google Play store.Z1 Water ResistanceZ1 is the worldâs first ultra high resolution camera in a waterproof smartphone. The Xperia Z1 is of a few select premium Android smartphones that Sony offers as both water and dust resistant. The Xperia Z1 is durable. The tempered glass model also has a IP55/IP58 rating. Google / SonyPerformanceSonyâs Android integration is impressive. Many useful apps and services are available by access of Googleâs Play Store and various Android services for the smartphone. Z1 is powered by Snapdragon 800 2.3Ghz processor with 2GB RAM. The phone has 256-bit AES encryption, internal memory and SD card for data.The quality and system security uses Android⢠security model with Sony Mobile enhancements. Android OS leverages the Linux⢠kernel security system. This type of system ensures that applications are separated to minimize interactions. Location data (GPS) sensitive API keys ensure safe password management for users. Battery LifeThe Z1 device has improved battery life. Sony Xperia Z1 has a 3000 mAh Li-Ion non-replaceable battery. Technical specification include: up to 830 minutes talk time (GSM), music listening for up to 110 hours and video playback time for up to 400 minutes.Sonyâs Android smartphones and Android handset lines have improved. The company aims to be the third worldâs largest handset based on its sales growth. Smartphone consumers have been healthy in terms of spending levels this year. Forrester expects online shoppers will spend $262 billion in 2013 for smartphone sales.Sony Xperia Z1 is highly recommended. A variety of Z1 apps offered from Androidâs community is a good benefit for any consumer or business. Unique innovative one-piece aluminium frame design and magnetic pin features create an outstanding premium phone. Waterproof and dust resistance make for one very tough Android smartphone!