Many had expected Sony to unveil a new Sony Xperia Z4 smartphone at the Mobile World Congress this year, but that did not happen. It can be recalled that it had announced the Xperia Z2 at MWC 2014. Instead, the company introduced another addition to its Xperia Z4 line - a 10-inch, super light tablet tablet that The Verge said is the Sony VAIO's replacement.
When will Sony release an updated version of its flagship smartphone? Why the delay?
Talk has it that the new version may be launched in the summer, according to Xperia Blog. Certain leaks have pointed to a delay in the release, rather than a terminated project. As to the reasons for its delay, we put forward 3 reasons explaining just that.
Set Aside a Special Event for Flagship Phone
Sony experienced losses in its smartphone division last year, prompting the Japan-based firm to cut off more people to help turn the business around. Considering last year's poor smartphone sales performance, it would be logical that Sony do all it can to ensure that it hits its revenue targets this year. And this could include racking up profit margins by organizing a separate marketing event solely for the smartphone products.
This may be why the Xperia Z4 was nowhere in sight at the MWC 2015 as Sony had opted to unveil its latest tablet first. There may be a special event set aside for the launching of company's flagship smartphone some time this year.
Highlight Other Products
Sony is not about to let its other products lag behind and suffer poor performance as its smartphone business. As such, it's only logical that the tech firm also dedicate events for the launching of other new offerings. With that, the company would have to space these affairs strategically to ensure better product promotion and consumer reception.
Right now, it's the ultra-thin tablet being pushed forward by Sony. Perhaps the launch of a new flagship phone will be next in line?
James Bond Tie-Up
Rumors have it that the Xperia Z4 will have a product placement arrangement with the next James Bond flick, "Spectre," and that "James Bond actor Daniel Craig and director Sam Mendes will have some input on its design," according to PC Advisor.
The site added that information leaked from the hacked email accounts of Sony Pictures CEO Michael Lynton and VP for consumer marketing George Leon revealed that "phones" were mentioned, which could be taken to mean that more than one model could be in development. This reportedly supports "the theory that we shall aslso see Music and dual-SIM versions," PC Advisor said.
"It's also alleged that Daniel Craig could net $5M simply for posing with the Sony Xperia Z4," the site went on to say, adding that the smartphone launch may happen in May and November this year.
Coincidentally, "Spectre" will be released in November. Could the Xperia Z4's delay also be down to the James Bond tie-up?
Got your own theories? Let us know!
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