Sony announced two updates for the Xperia 1 VI this week. For one, it launched a new scarlet color option with 512 GB of storage space worldwide which we have covered separately. Separately, it looks like the US has also received a scarlet color refresh, but is still stuck at 256GB of storage (currently $1,209.99 at Amazon).
On the other hand, Sony has also introduced a substantial connectivity update for all Xperia 1 VI Xperia 1 VI. Specifically, it has enabled Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, which it is distributing through a new software update. Until now, the Xperia 1 VI was limited to Wi-Fi 6E, which translated to speeds of 1,824 Mbps in our testing earlier this year.
In theory, Wi-Fi 7 offers up to 46 Gbps of bandwidth, compared to 9.6 Gbps for Wi-Fi 6E. Although a device is unlikely to achieve maximum data rates in practice, Wi-Fi 7 is expected to improve network efficiency and stability while reducing power consumption. Additionally, support for MLO (Multi-Link Operation) means the Xperia 1 VI should now be able to send and receive data simultaneously across 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz networks to minimize network latency.
Please note that the Xperia 1 VI requires a Wi-Fi 7 compatible router to benefit from these network improvements. Additionally, Sony is rolling out support for Wi-Fi 7 in software version 69.0.A.2.44, which also contains the September 2024 security patch. According to XperiCheck, most Xperia 1 VIs should have already received version 69.0. A.2.44, such as those sold in Europe, the United Kingdom, Japan and Southeast Asian markets.
