The Xperia 1 VII should be the last phone Sony makes. Sony’s smartphone division has struggled to compete with leading brands like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi. Despite the new Xperia 1 VII boasting upgrades, the lack of unique selling points is striking. The device offers premium features but fails to stand out in a crowded market.
One significant issue is the lack of a standout feature. While previous Sony phones offered distinctive elements like a tall 4K screen, the Xperia 1 VII’s 6.5-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is now common among Android flagships. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a unique touch but hardly a reason to choose this phone over competitors.
Camera performance remains a notable shortcoming for Sony. Despite its strong reputation in the camera industry, Sony’s smartphones have not delivered consistently outstanding photography experiences. For users seeking the best camera phone, Sony devices may not meet their expectations compared to competitors like Xiaomi, Samsung, and Apple.
Software support is another area where Sony falls short. While the Android skin on Sony phones offers a clean and intuitive experience, the limited software updates for the Xperia 1 VII raise concerns. With only three major OS updates and four years of security patches, the longevity of the device is questionable compared to offerings from Samsung and Google.
Pricing is also a significant issue, with the Xperia 1 VII expected to be priced similarly to its predecessor at €1,499. This high cost combined with several drawbacks makes it a less appealing choice for consumers. Given these challenges, it may be time for Sony to reconsider its focus on smartphones and redirect its efforts to other successful product categories.
In conclusion, Sony should consider exiting the smartphone market to concentrate on areas where it excels, such as TVs, cameras, audio equipment, and gaming consoles. By prioritizing its strengths and supplying camera sensors to other manufacturers, Sony can optimize its resources and maintain its position as a leader in various tech sectors. It’s time for Sony to acknowledge the limitations in its smartphone division and explore more promising avenues for innovation and growth.