To connect Xperia 1 to Sony cameras as an external screen, you now have to pay an additional fee

Previously, Sony's flagship Xperia 1 smartphones could work as an external monitor for Sony Alpha cameras via the Monitor Control app (or External Monitor on older models). This was one of the features of the expensive smartphone that Sony actively promoted in advertising.

But with the 2.4.0 update of the Monitor Control app, the wired connection became a paid service - $5 per month or $50 per year.
Only the wireless connection remains free, but it has a delay that makes it unsuitable for professional use.

If you're still on version 2.3.1 or older, you can simply not upgrade to keep the free feature. And if you have already updated, you can find the old version on APKMirror or other app sites, but use only reliable resources where apps are checked and there is less chance that an attacker will post a cracked version with malicious code.

The app works not only with Xperia: Galaxy, Pixel, Xiaomi, Oppo, vivo, as well as iPhone and iPad are supported. However, high-quality USB monitoring (UVC) remains exclusive to Sony. It's hard to say to what extent this feature has become decisive for buyers of this expensive smartphone model.