Sony launches Xperia 10 VIII in Japan with new FunSync feature

Sony has launched the Xperia 10 VIII in Japan, available through Docomo, au, SoftBank, and as a SIM-free model priced at 99,000 yen. Despite rising component costs, Sony has kept the price under 100,000 yen through cost-reduction efforts.

A key new feature is ‘FunSync’, a Japan-exclusive service that allows users to change lock screens, wallpapers, and sound effects by tapping an NFC-enabled ‘FunSync Card’ against the device. Initial collaborations include ‘Demon Slayer’ and ‘Hello Kitty’. Sony is also offering limited-edition Hello Kitty collaboration sets at Sony Stores.

The device features a 6.1-inch display with 50% higher peak brightness than its predecessor, a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery designed for long-term durability. It also introduces the ‘Point & Pay Menu’ for quick access to payment and point applications.

In terms of carrier promotions, au is offering the device for as low as 47 yen over two years for customers who switch to au (MNP) and return the device by the 25th month under specific program conditions.