Sony Mobile Communications (SMC) has introduces its new flagship Android smartphone dubbed the Xperia Z (139 x 71 x 7.9 mm; 146 g), which sports a 5" full HD (1080p) Reality Display.

The Japanese firm’s new mobile is powered by a 1.5 GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core processor with a generous 2 GB RAM, and operates on Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) out of the box with an upgrade to 4.2 following shortly after its release. This is good news for Sony, since a few of their previous releases were not equipped with the latest OS.

This Xperia Z will launch globally in Q1 2013 and be available locally during Q2.

In terms of optics, it offers a 13.1 megapixel fast-capture auto-focus camera, featuring the company’s Exmor RS for mobile image sensor, with the ability to record HDR (High Dynamic Range) video. According to Sony, HDR technology provides for clearer images against strong backlight, enabling users to capture razor sharp photos and videos in all conditions.

Also onboard is LTE (4G) connectivity, NFC (near field communication), as well as a high IP55 and IP57 rating that means the device is both dust- and water-resistant, with Sony claiming that it can be submerged underwater for up to 30 minutes. This is a feature found on no other flagship device.

The firm included a battery STAMINA mode that it says will improve the standby time of the smartphone by four times. This is achieved by automatically shutting down battery-draining apps whenever the smartphone is locked (or the screen is off) and starting them up again when the phone is unlocked again.

Key features for Xperia Z:

• 5" (1080 x 1920, 1080p) full HD Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2

• 13.1 MP fast capture camera with Exmor RS for mobile, HDR video, Superior Auto and noise reduction to capture razor sharp pictures and videos in any conditions.

• Dust and water resistant (IP55 and IP57) with a durable glass display.

• 1.5 GHz asynchronous quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor with 2 GB RAM

• Battery STAMINA mode improves standby time by at least four times.