In May, Sony launched its Xperia 1 VII smartphone in select markets worldwide. However, after receiving numerous reports about technical issues with several units, the company decided to suspend sales and initiate a replacement program for the device. So far this year, Sony has not introduced any additional smartphone models. Speculation regarding the possibility of the tech giant exiting the smartphone sector has circulated, but a recent statement from the Chief Financial Officer of Sony Group suggests that the company is committed to further developing its smartphone lineup, particularly the Xperia line.
Sony CFO Confirms Ongoing Commitment to Smartphone Market
During a financial results briefing on Thursday, Sue Lin, Sony Group’s Chief Financial Officer, emphasized the significance of the Xperia brand, stating it is a “very important business” for the company, according to a report by CNET Japan. She expressed the firm’s intention to maintain its focus on the smartphone sector, alongside other communication technologies beyond mobile devices.
This renewed commitment comes after reports of malfunctions in the recently released Xperia 1 VII, with users experiencing unexpected shutdowns, reboots, or total failure to power on. These issues led Sony to temporarily halt sales of the phone and later implement a complimentary replacement scheme for affected customers.
In addition to these challenges, the Xperia series has struggled with stagnation in the Japanese market, leading to concerns about Sony’s potential exit from the smartphone business. To date, no new models have been launched in 2025, intensifying these worries.
Nonetheless, the recent comments from Sony’s CFO indicate a clear intention to continue producing smartphones, paving the way for more Xperia models in the future.
The Sony Xperia 1 VII is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and features a robust 5,000mAh battery, along with a sophisticated triple rear camera system that incorporates Sony Alpha technology, including Exmor T and RS sensors, highlighted by a primary 48-megapixel sensor measuring 1/1.35 inches.
