One thing is clear: Sony produces quality mobile devices. The software has made progress toward becoming a fully useable skin on top of what is typically the most recent release of Android, and the hardware is always beautiful. Overall, there aren’t many issues with Sony devices because of the excellent photography experience. So, you might be wondering, what’s the problem? I’m happy you inquired.
The pricing and release timing have been a persistent problem with Sony. Charge whatever you feel is reasonable, but ultimately, we all know that there are usually superior options available far less expensively than what Sony phones are offered for. On pricing, we can debate until the cows come home.
Sony often announces a phone in the spring, after which we hear nothing more from them for many months. After enough time has passed and everyone has forgotten about Sony’s announcement (with the exception of ardent Sony fans), they release the phone through a small number of retail channels at a price that may deter the majority of potential customers. Because to a lack of US carrier partners, paying full price is frequently the only choice for purchase, which is usually too expensive for some or the majority of customersLet’s take last year’s high-end Xperia 1 IV as an example. Gorgeous phone, top of the line specs.
The phone was initially announced and placed up for pre-order in May, 2022 at $1600. Not a typo. The phone didn’t release until September. Sony, my friends, that is waaay too long. In my mind, when a phone is announced, it better be available and potentially in my hands within 2-3 weeks or any interest dies. Due to the timing between announcement and release, companies like Google are able to unveil and subsequently release the Pixel lineup of phones, notably at a much less expensive price tag and full of noteworthy software features.
Like I said earlier, Sony makes a nice phone and I’m sure it feels worth those high prices to those who buy it, but let’s be real, there are plenty of other good options out there at far better prices. Those two things, pricing and release schedule, really don’t help when it comes to me recommending phones to family and friends. No one I know is dropping that kind of money on a smartphone. Sony’s least expensive option is $999, the Xperia 5 III from 2021, currently on sale for $699. I’m sorry, but that seems insane to me.
Sony, I need there to be more options available to me besides Google, Samsung, and OnePlus. Please, try to bring it down a bit and don’t make me wait so long for your phones.
