Sony’s Mobile Phone Business in Mainland China Officially Comes to an End
Summary:
- Sony has officially ceased its mobile phone operations in mainland China.
- The last model launched was the Xperia 5 V, introduced in September 2023.
- Customers can access limited support for historical models through a new service URL.
In a significant shift in the mobile phone landscape, netizens have recently noted the cancellation of the Sony Xperia WeChat public account and the removal of the mobile phone product category from the official Sony website. This move marks the official termination of Sony’s mobile phone business in mainland China.
The last model to hit the market was the Xperia 5 V, unveiled in September 2023 with a starting price of 6,499 yuan. This phone was positioned to attract consumers looking for high-quality features, but it seems to have been unable to revitalize Sony’s presence in a highly competitive landscape.
Earlier, in July 2025, Sony announced that due to business adjustments, the domain name www.sony-xperia.com.cn would be deactivated as of August 5, 2025. Users seeking information on older Xperia models can still visit www.sony.com.cn/Xperia for specifications, while after-sales support is available at service.sony.com.cn.
Unlike the flourishing retail sectors of Sony’s other business units, its mobile division has struggled to maintain relevance. Faced with intense competition from industry giants like Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, and vivo, Sony’s smartphones have gradually lost market share and consumer interest. As a result, the brand has effectively fallen off the radar for many potential buyers.
A Shift in Strategy
Sony’s decision to wind down its mobile phone division comes amid broader corporate realignments. While its other businesses, including gaming and entertainment, continue to thrive, the smartphone segment has lagged. The Japanese tech giant is redirecting its focus towards more lucrative areas, ultimately choosing to step back from the mobile arena in mainland China.
The company’s last foray into the smartphone market highlighted its innovative approach to features and design, aimed at tech enthusiasts. However, the rapid evolution and heavy investment in marketing by competitors overshadowed these efforts.
Historically, Sony has been known for its high-quality camera technology and audio capabilities in its smartphones. Despite these strengths, the Xperia line did not attract a significant market share, leaving the brand to be regarded as an "other" among major competitors.
The Road Ahead
With the official termination of Sony’s mobile operations, consumers are left to reflect on what the brand brought to the market. While there will no longer be new releases from Sony, there is a legacy of innovation, showcasing advancements in mobile photography and sound quality.
For those who have owned a Sony Xperia device, the brand’s transition marks the end of an era. Similarly, enthusiastic followers of the brand might feel a sense of nostalgia as they witness the company step away from a once-prominent position in the mobile market.
As consumers search for alternatives, the most prominent players in the smartphone industry will continue to innovate and enhance their offerings. Brands like Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and others will likely expand their reach and further dominate the landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cessation of Sony’s mobile phone business in mainland China underscores the challenges faced by legacy brands in a rapidly evolving market. With fierce competition and shifting consumer preferences, Sony’s departure serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the technology sector. As the landscape continues to transform, it remains to be seen how the remaining players will adapt to the changing tides of consumer demand and technological advancements.
While the Xperia line may no longer be a contender in the Chinese market, its impact on mobile technology and design will not be forgotten. Consumers and tech aficionados alike can still reminisce about the innovation and quality that Sony brought to the smartphone experience.
