SONY XPERIA Z6

Sony Xperia... Z6?

Sony had a patchy 2015 as far as smartphone launches go, but the Xperia Z6 might well be enough to help the company's smartphone division get back on track.... possibly. While it might not set the world on fire in terms of sales numbers, Sony's Xperia range represents some of the best-looking and most powerful handsets on the market. But MWC threw the possibility of seeing a Z6 into doubt, with company officials saying the new X range would replace the Z models (then others saying the Z range wasn't going anywhere). Who knows what's happening... clearly not Sony.

So what can we expect in 2016? The early hints are that there are going to be no fewer than five different variations of the Xperia Z6, and the handsets are set to offer Sony's version of the 3D Touch technology currently available in the newest iPhones. The traditional Xperia look should be in evidence again, while the usual dust and waterproofing are likely to be in place too. The indications are thatSony's taking its time with its next flagship, so expect something significant in the next year.

Of course, the X range MAY appeal to potential Z buyers. They're well specced with a 23MP rear camera and HD screen, but they're clearly not flagships though.