VAIO smartphone to be announced on March 12th
We heard a rumour just before the new year that VAIO was going to develop its own smartphones to be announced at CES 2015. While that didn’t eventuate, it appears that March 12th has been marked as a new date for when a VAIO smartphone could be announced. If you’re a little confused as to […]
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Sony teases waterproof device, possibly the M4 Aqua?
Sony has just sent out another teaser for MWC 2015, this time featuring a water-centric vibe. The tweet reads “Get ready to make a splash… All will be revealed 02.03.2015.” The attached image shows a screen covered in water droplets, obviously eluding to some sort of IPxx rating, or even the recently-rumored Xperia M4 Aqua handset.
Get ready to make a splash… All will be revealed 02.03.2015. #Xperia#SonyMWCpic.twitter.com/t1wyegG0bq
— Sony Xperia (@sonyxperia) February 27, 2015
Just yesterday, a new leak showed us pictures of Sony’s upcoming devices, including the Xperia Z4 Tablet and the Xperia M4 Aqua. Both of these devices are rumored to feature IP68 certification for water resistance, which would fit right in line with this new tease from the company. Furthermore, the M4 Aqua is rumored to feature a 5.2-inch 720p display, a 1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon 610 backed by 2GB of RAM. It’s also rumored to have a 13MP rear-facing camera, a 5MP front-facing camera and will run Android 5.0 Lollipop out of the box. Of course, none of these specifications are confirmed yet, so we’ll have to wait and see what the company unveils on March 2nd.
A few days ago we saw another leak of the Xperia Z4 Tablet, which unfortunately didn’t tell us too much about the new device. From what we’ve gathered so far, the new tablet will come with a 2K display, and will feature “the latest ultra fast processor” and “industry leading battery performance”.
Android Authority has a team on the floor at MWC 2015, so we’ll be sure to bring you the best coverage of any product announcements from Sony or any other OEMs that will be at the trade show.
Sony’s mobile business doesn’t jibe with its quest for profits
No matter what part of the world you live in, Sony is likely a household name. For the past several decades, the Japanese mega-corporation has dabbled in a variety of talking points ranging from consumer electronics to healthcare and biotechnology. Recently, however, the company has fallen on hard times and in the past few years its leadership has made some radical changes. In 2014, Sony made an exit from the PC business, selling off its well-known VAIO brand to a Japanese investment fund called Japan Industrial Partners.
After pulling the plug on its PC efforts, Sony stated that it would shift its focus towards smartphones and tablets. Here we are a little over 12 months later and the company’s CEO Kazuo Hirai is making even more drastic moves, recently announcing that the company will no longer pursue profits in smartphone sales. A far cry from Sony’s declaration last February, its frontman also said that he’s not ruling out the thought of a possible exit strategy from the mobile phone business.
After pulling the plug on its PC efforts, Sony stated that it would shift its focus towards smartphones and tablets.
So how did this happen? How did one of the most popular companies in the world end up in such a compromising position? Let’s talk about this for bit.
Things Haven’t Been Easy
Hirai didn’t just come up with this “everything must go” idea from out of nowhere. Sony has been against the ropes for quite a while now. The outfit currently expects to report a loss of around $2.1 billion for its fiscal year ending March 31, 2015. And despite making some rather exceptional handsets, Sony’s ailing mobile division has been a major contributor to the company’s recent decline. Back in September, the firm noted that it would be taking an “impairment charge” of 180 billion yen (around $1.5 billion) due to its mobile sales being lower than anticipated.
Sony then vowed to make some changes by revising its Mobile Communications segment’s mid-range plan. This meant adjustments in select geographical areas, a renewed focus on its premium product lineup, and a reduction to its mid-range offerings. But despite such practical provisions, the firm is still treading water, resulting in its brass entertaining the thought of completely backing out of longtime staples like TV and mobile.
So What’s the Problem?
Arguably the biggest cause of Sony’s recent struggles is stern competition in just about every major market. In 2009, the popular electronics maker was recognized as the fourth largest mobile phone manufacturer in the world. However, by 2010, the company dropped down to sixth place. With the exception of Apple, Sony’s smartphone efforts have taken a back seat to other Asia-based competitors like Samsung, Xiaomi, Lenovo and LG.
With the exception of Apple, Sony’s smartphone efforts have taken a back seat to other Asia-based competitors like Samsung, Xiaomi, Lenovo and LG.
Additionally, Sony doesn’t really have a large presence in important markets. China and the US to be specific. The former is dominated by native companies like Xiaomi, Huawei, ZTE and high-profile outsiders like Samsung and Apple, but the key point here is that Sony is practically nowhere to be found.
Not only coming up short in the far east, if you take a look at America’s four major wireless carriers, there’s really not much available from Sony. Meanwhile, flagship devices from Samsung, Apple, HTC and LG can regularly be found across Verizon, AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile. If Sony plans to stay in the smartphone business, it will need to establish itself in these two pivotal markets, as well as other developing territories.
Definitely aware of his company’s tense position, Kazuo Hirai has publicly acknowledged that rival equipment manufacturers have been effectively producing products that bring down costs and drive up innovation. These trends, along with a minuscule market share, are likely a major part of what’s caused Sony to lose faith in its mobile division.
Let it Tank
Sony has reputation for making some of the best smartphones on the market, but as a whole the company is in a very challenging situation. Projected to take its sixth net loss in seven years, the firm’s new recovery strategy bets big on three sectors: video games (PlayStation), movies and camera sensors. You’ll want to dogear that last item.
Despite a less than flattering security breach at the end of 2014, Sony Pictures still manages to churn out profitable films. Also, the studio recently inked a potentially lucrative deal with Marvel Studios that will see the iconic superhero Spider-Man appearing in movies from Sony and the Disney-owned company.
As for the world of video games, Sony’s new PlayStation 4 game console (which actually plays nicely with select Android devices) is currently dominating its immediate competitors in terms of global sales. While the PS4 has only been available to consumers for a little over a year, some analysts predict that it will outsell Microsoft’s new Xbox One by up to 40 percent over the next four years.
This brings us back to image sensors. Sony makes an impressive assortment of cameras, but there’s a bigger picture here. Apple uses the Japanese electronics maker’s hardware in its iPhones. In addition to a deal with the California-based tech giant, Samsung’s forthcoming flagship Galaxy S6 will reportedly feature a Sony-made image sensor. By partnering with the world’s top two smartphone makers, the struggling firm has the potential to earn a lot of cash.
Sony’s grand plan is to return to being profitable in three years.
Sony’s grand plan is to return to being profitable in three years. This leaves very little room for dead weight. While it may not be an easy decision, I’d say the company should look to unload its mobile division and sell it off to the highest bidder. This approach will help the firm focus on more profitable opportunities, such as the previously mentioned cash-heavy platforms.
If Sony does try to maintain its mobile business, the company will be fighting an expensive uphill battle that could possibly put its recovery strategy in jeopardy. While smartphones might be a lost cause for the once dominant electronics maker, it still has time to take a shot at wearables whenever they officially catch on.
Wrap-up
Make no mistake about it; Sony is at a turning point. The company that used to have its hands in just about everything imaginable, now only has its fingertips on a few key ideas. It’s clear the firm’s management is thinking about mobile and there could very well be an internal debate going on regarding the platform’s future. Whatever the case, when Sony finally decides what to do with its smartphone business, it needs to commit to it and not waffle from one idea to another.
It’s a simple idea for sure, but the company definitely appears to be having trouble making a definitive decision. But if you ask me, Sony needs to ease up on its smartphone development and start focusing on putting together its best sales pitch. What are your thoughts? Should Sony bow out for now, or would simply scaling back the number of phones produced (ie, less models and less frequent release schedules) be enough to help Sony’s ailing mobile division heal its wounds?
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Sony updates the Folding@Home App to support non-Sony phones and Android Lollipop
Many of us have allowed our home PC’s to be used for the Folding@Home project that utilises the PC’s idle time to investigate the mechanisms of protein folding, aiding medical research into Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s diseases among others. Owners of Sony smartphones running Android 4.4 KitKat have previously been able to run the relevant Android app on their devices, and now Sony has updated the app to be compatible with Android 5.0 Lollipop as well. Perhaps even more importantly, even non-Sony smartphones can run the app thanks to this latest update.
A few details on how the application works, it uses your smartphone’s processing power and WiFi connection when it is idle i.e when you go to bed at night and put the phone or tablet on charge. Default settings for ‘idle time’ are between midnight and 6am although you can change it to suit your needs. This results in the smartphone crunching data during its idle time to aid medical research in its bid to find cure cures for various ailments. If you’d like to take part in the Folding@Home project, just click the download link below to be taken to the Google Play Store.
Google Play Store Download Link
Come comment on this article: Sony updates the Folding@Home App to support non-Sony phones and Android Lollipop
Sony hints at new Xperia Z4 tablet to be launched at MWC 2015
Mobile World Congress is lining up to certainly be an exciting event for tech lovers, and the latest company looking to announce their new products is Sony.
Expected to appear at MWC is the company’s latest Xperia Z4 tablet, which may perhaps be announced alongside the next Xperia Z4 smartphone.
From the picture leaked by Sony above, the image shows off a very thin tablet akin to their previous Z2 and Z3 models.
The post Sony hints at new Xperia Z4 tablet to be launched at MWC 2015 appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Sony confirms Xperia Z4 tablet will be unveiled at Mobile World Congress
A couple of days ago, Sony mistakenly or on purpose outed the Xperia Z4 tablet in their Xperia Lounge app. The immediate assumption was that we would see it at Mobile World Congress next week, and Sony has confirmed it. In a Tweet a little while ago, Sony said, “Slimmer. Lighter. Brighter. All will be revealed on 02.03.15. #Xperia #SonyMWC.”
Now they could be referring to the often rumored Xperia Z4 phone, but highly unlikely. Expect it to be the Xperia Z4 tablet since Sony isn’t expected to release another flagship phone so quickly.
On top of it being very thinner, lighter, and brighter, we do expect it to have a Quad HD (2560 x 1600) display. Other than that, we will have to wait until March 2 to find out.
Slimmer. Lighter. Brighter.
All will be revealed on 02.03.15. #Xperia #SonyMWC pic.twitter.com/VHW7q52Ywx— Sony Xperia (@sonyxperia) February 26, 2015
Come comment on this article: Sony confirms Xperia Z4 tablet will be unveiled at Mobile World Congress
Sony confirms Xperia Z4 tablet will be unveiled at Mobile World Congress
A couple of days ago, Sony mistakenly or on purpose outed the Xperia Z4 tablet in their Xperia Lounge app. The immediate assumption was that we would see it at Mobile World Congress next week, and Sony has confirmed it. In a Tweet a little while ago, Sony said, “Slimmer. Lighter. Brighter. All will be revealed on 02.03.15. #Xperia #SonyMWC.”
Now they could be referring to the often rumored Xperia Z4 phone, but highly unlikely. Expect it to be the Xperia Z4 tablet since Sony isn’t expected to release another flagship phone so quickly.
On top of it being very thinner, lighter, and brighter, we do expect it to have a Quad HD (2560 x 1600) display. Other than that, we will have to wait until March 2 to find out.
Slimmer. Lighter. Brighter.
All will be revealed on 02.03.15. #Xperia #SonyMWC pic.twitter.com/VHW7q52Ywx— Sony Xperia (@sonyxperia) February 26, 2015
Come comment on this article: Sony confirms Xperia Z4 tablet will be unveiled at Mobile World Congress
Sony debuts Xperia E4g, an LTE variant of its latest budget device
For the fans of the Xperia E4 – Sony’s excellent budget device – the company have just announced an LTE variant of the device called the Xperia E4g.
With the an improved 1.5Ghz quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and 5-Megapixel camera, the E4g is almost identical to the E4 but with the addition of LTE.
The Sony Xperia E4g will be available starting April, with a price tag of 129€ and will be offered in a dual-SIM variant.
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Xperia E4g brings LTE to Sony’s new form factor
The battery that could is a big marketing point.
Some weeks ago, we reported on a new device Sony had in store for the smartphone world, the Xperia E4. While the phone itself was little more than a mid-range device, the design is what actually turned some heads. With rounded corners reminiscent of something Nokia might release, Xperia fans began to wonder if the upcoming Z4 flagship might have a similar redesign.
Today Sony announced the Xperia E4g, an alternative build of the E4, featuring high-speed LTE data connectivity. The phone will be available in black or white, and cost €129 (approximately $146) when it releases this April. Curiously enough, the specs on this device are actually different than those of its brother, the E4. The E4g comes with a 4.7-inch (960X540) screen, 1.5GHz Quad Core CPU, and weighs only 135 grams. On the other hand, the E4 has a 5-inch (960X540) screen, a 1.3GHz Quad Core CPU, and weighs 144 grams. Both devices come with a 2300 mAh battery which Sony promises will last about 2 days, and thus it seems the LTE model needed a slight screen reduction to accommodate the demand. Rounding out the specs (for both actually) is a 5-megapixel rear camera and 2-megapixel front camera.
Although these press renders are taken from the standard, larger E4, suffice to say the interface will probably look exactly the same.
The product website also uses the headline “Quality you can trust” which some long-time Sony fans (or opponents) might find somewhat amusing given the accusations some have made of quality control issues relating to a so-called “Sony Timer“.
As with the E4, the E4g will be sold in both standard and Dual-SIM variants.
London, 24th February 2015 – Earlier this month, Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) introduced Xperia™ E4; the affordable, easy-to-use smartphone with great battery life – in a quality Sony design. Now, Sony unveils the exciting Xperia™ E4g smartphone, offering the same ease-of-use and powerful battery performance – with fast 4G LTE connectivity.
“Xperia E4 set out to bring many of the premium features people expect of Sony to lower-tier devices; Xperia E4g brings that same quality and ease of use – but with super-fast 4G LTE connectivity” said Tony McNulty, Vice President, Value Category Business Management at Sony Mobile Communications. “With simple set-up and unrivalled 2 day battery life, we believe both models represent value for those who want premium Sony technology and experiences often only associated with high-end devices.”
Get started without the wait – speedy set up… just point and shoot!
Xperia E4g is built to ensure that you can set up and enjoy your new smartphone, from the moment you pull it out of the box. For those new to Xperia, migration from other Android, Windows or BlackBerry devices is super quick and easy. The Xperia Transfer app, allows you to move contacts, photos, bookmarks, apps, music, messages and much more securely, without the hassle – or worry of losing anything important.
Smartphone photography is made easy, with Auto scene Recognition automatically recognising and optimising capture settings for up to 52 scenarios for the perfect shots wherever you are. And, with NFC you can share your images easily with just one-touch.
Xperia E4g features Sony’s minimalist Android skin, but also brings the Simple Home interface providing larger icons and all your favorite apps on one screen, with those you don’t need stored neatly away in folders – perfect if you prefer to use your smartphone for specific functions.
Right on cue, with signature Sony design
Xperia E4g is Sony inside and out; rounded and robust, perfect for one hand usage. Available in classic Black and White, Xperia E4g retains that timeless Xperia form – a precision-cut power button, elevated mirror-finish logo and stainless steel camera ring and a scratch-resistant screen to add an extra layer of premium.
Built for speed – 4G LTE and two-day battery life, powered by a 1.5 GHz Quad-core processor
Xperia E4g is 4G LTE ready – which means you can enjoy the fastest news and information download, find your way using maps, check and send email, send pictures to friends and family in seconds, and enjoy lag-free music streaming on the go.
Sony’s latest smartphones are recognised for unrivalled battery life. Xperia E4g is no different, packing a powerful 2300mAh battery that gives you up to two-day’s battery life[i]; eliminating the need for regular charging. If that isn’t enough, one click activates Battery STAMINA Mode to regulate power management, and Ultra STAMINA Mode keeps your phone running on its core functions for a week.
Supporting slick and fast performance, Xperia E4g has a highly-tuned 1.5 GHz Quad-core processor, meaning that you can run multiple apps, surf the web and stream videos all at once.
Xperia E4g launches from April for around €1292. It will also be available in a Dual SIM variant – for full specifications please visit: http://www.sonymobile.com/global-en/products/phones/xperia-e4g/specifications/
[1] Based on multiple battery performance tests conducted between December 2014 and January 2015 in a laboratory under an active use conditions reflective of the Typical Smartphone User by Sony Mobile Communications Inc. For more information go to: www.sonymobile.com/testresults
2 Timing, availability and price may vary by market and/or operator.
Sony’s Lollipop build may have just been spotted if these leaked shots are legit
Sony has hit a rough patch in the past few years, and its latest lament seems to be the mobile space. While some of us waxed poetic this past Friday on the matter, it’s important to remember that Sony does, in fact, have a new flaghship in the works, the Xperia Z4. This device has a lot of potential, especially if Sony does hold to an annual release cycle, thus ensuring that “new” is less relative and more long-lasting.
A Chinese website is claiming to have screen captures of the Xperia Z4 Dual, known by the working title “Ivy”. While the physical body of the hardware might be missing, what’s of greater interest here is the visual nature of Sony’s take on Android Lollipop, specifically 5.0.2. As you can see in the About phone capture above, the hardware is running on a Qualcomm MSM8994, which our readers might be aware, is also known as the Snapdragon 810, which is currently powering the already-released LG G Flex 2.
Moving onto the next screen capture, we have the alleged Settings screen:
Pay particular interest to the significant editing Sony has apparently done to the icons depicting each of the setting toggles, which have an almost cartoonish nature to them. Also notice the odd mosaic-esque background color behind each line of text; it’s especially noticable on the blue “Settings” and “Wireless & Networks” text: this almost looks like the original language was sloppily erased and then new text placed on top of it.
Here we have the dialer:
Nothing major to speak of here, save for the same odd artefacts behind each bit of text. If this is indeed the dialer it would seemingly mesh well with the Material Design theme Google went for as it’s quite plain and simple. Still different from the stock experience however.
The final screen capture:
The world clock screen is also simplistic with the minimal color scheme and bright orange “add” button on the bottom right corner.
Assuming these images are in fact, legitimate, it is of particular interest that Sony has chosen to use a different “home” button for the on-screen navigation keys at the bottom. The AOSP build of Lollipop uses a circle, and when combined with the triangle and square flanking either side, gave rise to frequent joking of the “Playstation” buttons Google had chosen. Suffice to say, however, that the home icon is instantly more recognizable (if not skeuomorphic in its own way) than an unassuming circle.
And there you have it: a quick run through of the four leaked shots. Regardless of if they are legitimate or not, there is a clear influence of Material Design at play, though especially with the settings image, things look like Sony has an almost HTC Sense-level of tweaking going on with some things.
AIVAnet 