Story perspectives

Sony's New Subscription Model Sparks Outrage Among Xperia Users

9/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Sony has launched a subscription model for the "External Monitor" feature on Xperia smartphones, costing $4.99/month or $49.99/year.
The change affects the Monitor & Control app, restricting it to select Xperia models.
Users are frustrated with the paywall, particularly after purchasing the Xperia 1 VII.
Some users can sideload an older app to bypass the subscription, but it lacks updates.
This decision has faced criticism from the photography community, affecting Xperia's market position.

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Story summary

Sony has launched a subscription model for the "External Monitor" feature on Xperia smartphones, costing $4.99/month or $49.99/year.
The change affects the Monitor & Control app, restricting it to select Xperia models.
Users are frustrated with the paywall, particularly after purchasing the Xperia 1 VII.
Some users can sideload an older app to bypass the subscription, but it lacks updates.
This decision has faced criticism from the photography community, affecting Xperia's market position.