Tag: sony

  • Sony Unveils Project Defiant: Wireless Fighting Game Controller for PS5

    Sony Unveils Project Defiant: Wireless Fighting Game Controller for PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Custom Digital Stick: Features a customizable digital stick with interchangeable limit gates for different fighting techniques, no tools required.
    2. Mechanical Switch Buttons: Equipped with durable mechanical switch buttons and a touchpad, designed for extended gaming sessions.
    3. Ultra-Low Latency: Utilizes PlayStation Link technology for precise and fast connectivity on both PlayStation 5 and PC, with a wired USB-C option.
    4. Travel Case Included: Comes with a Sling Carry Case for easy and safe transport to gaming events and tournaments.
    5. Launch Timeline: Expected to launch in 2026, with more details to be announced in the future.

    Sony Interactive Entertainment has unveiled Project Defiant, their first controller designed for fighting games that offers both wireless and wired play. This new controller is specially crafted for competitive fighting games and comes packed with unique features.

    Customization for Fighters

    The Project Defiant is equipped with a custom digital stick that Sony has developed. Users can easily change the limit gates without needing any tools, as it includes options like square, circle, and octagon shapes tailored for varying fighting techniques. With mechanical switch buttons and a touchpad similar to the DualSense, this controller is built to endure extensive gaming sessions and challenging matches. Plus, you can power on your PlayStation 5 wirelessly just by pressing the PS button.

    Advanced Connectivity

    This controller leverages Sony’s innovative PlayStation Link (PS Link) technology, ensuring ultra-low latency on both PlayStation 5 and PC. Every action, whether a button press or stick movement, registers accurately in gameplay. For those who prefer a wired setup, a USB-C connection is also available.

    Convenient Travel Case

    Included with Project Defiant is a Sling Carry Case designed to safeguard the digital stick while on the move. The case features a lever gap that makes transporting it to tournaments or gaming events effortless.

    Launch Details

    As of now, Sony has yet to reveal the final product name or the exact release date. Project Defiant is expected to launch in 2026, with more information to be shared in the coming months.

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  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Made by OEM: Future Models to Follow

    Sony Xperia 1 VII Made by OEM: Future Models to Follow

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s Xperia 1 VII for 2025 is manufactured by an OEM, not by Sony itself.
    2. Many smartphone companies, including Sony, now rely on OEMs for device production instead of in-house manufacturing.
    3. Sony’s recent website update removed smartphones from its list of products made at its facilities.
    4. This change suggests that Sony has fully shifted to using OEMs for all its smartphone models, including flagships.
    5. The move may indicate that Sony has found an OEM capable of meeting the quality standards for its premium Xperia smartphones.

    Sony has recently unveiled the Xperia 1 VII, its top-tier smartphone for 2025. However, it has come to light that, similar to its other models that are not flagships, this phone is actually made by an OEM rather than by Sony itself.

    OEMs and Smartphone Production

    A lot of smartphone companies rely on OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to create their devices instead of handling the manufacturing in-house. They typically design the phone but contract out the actual building process to an OEM, which constructs the smartphones to fit their guidelines and quality standards. Although Sony was once recognized for making its own smartphones, this seems to have changed.

    Changes in Manufacturing

    As reported by the Japanese outlet, Sumahodigest, a recent update to Sony’s website in mid-May has led to the removal of smartphones from the list of products produced at its facilities. This is quite a shift, as its factories in Chonburi and Bang Kadi in Thailand, along with the one in Wuxi, China, were previously known for manufacturing smartphones.

    The exclusion of smartphones from its production list reportedly backs up speculations that Sony has moved away from making its own devices and is now relying on an OEM. This suggests that this is not just a temporary change and that upcoming models will also be produced by OEMs.

    Implications for the Future

    This situation is significant because Sony had been known to use OEMs for its non-flagship smartphones, but not for its flagship line, which demanded a higher quality. With the absence of smartphone production from its factory’s product list, it indicates that Sony now has an OEM capable of manufacturing its premium Xperia smartphones up to its expected standards.

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  • Sony WH-1000XM6: New Over-Ear Wireless Headphones Released

    Sony WH-1000XM6: New Over-Ear Wireless Headphones Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has launched the WH-1000XM6, the first sixth-generation model in its 1000X series, available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver.
    2. The design features a foldable structure, a strengthened hinge mechanism, a wider headband, and softer earpads for improved comfort.
    3. The headphones utilize Sony’s new QN3 processor, offering faster data processing and enhanced active noise cancellation with twelve microphones.
    4. Upgraded 30 mm drivers improve high-frequency reproduction and vocal clarity, ensuring better overall audio performance.
    5. The WH-1000XM6 boasts a battery life of up to 30 hours, with fast charging capabilities providing 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging.

    Sony has officially launched the WH-1000XM6, marking the first sixth-generation model in its 1000X series, replacing the WH-1000XM5. As revealed by a last-minute leak yesterday, these new over-ear headphones are available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver. Notably, the WH-1000X series has returned to a foldable design, which was absent in the previous generation with the WH-1000XM5 (curr. $348 on Amazon).

    Improved Design Features

    This time, Sony claims to have strengthened the hinge mechanism, likely in response to previous hinge problems noted with the XM5s. Additionally, a wider headband is now included to alleviate pressure during extended wear of the WH-1000XM6. It appears that softer earpads are also designed to enhance comfort while using these headphones.

    Enhanced Audio Technology

    The WH-1000XM6 is equipped with Sony’s QN3 processor, which the company asserts can process data up to seven times faster than the QN1 chip used in the WH-1000XM5. With a total of twelve microphones, the QN3 is expected to provide superior active noise cancellation (ANC) and improved transparency modes, though the exact levels of improvement remain unclear.

    Performance and Availability

    Moreover, the WH-1000XM6 comes with upgraded 30 mm drivers to ensure better high-frequency reproduction and clearer vocals. The new headphones promise an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours and include fast charging capabilities that allow for 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging. You can order the WH-1000XM6 today for $449.99 from Sony and other retailers like Amazon or Best Buy, with shipments anticipated later this week. More information can be found on Sony’s official website.

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    Sony WH-1000XM6: New Over-Ear Wireless Headphones Released

     

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  • Sony WF-1000XM6: Early Details on WF-1000XM5 Successors

    Sony WF-1000XM6: Early Details on WF-1000XM5 Successors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is launching the WH-1000XM6 today, replacing the WH-1000XM5 after three years.
    2. The launch hints at a new release cycle, as Sony typically refreshes its 1000X series annually.
    3. There are rumors of the WF-1000XM6 earbuds being announced alongside the WH-1000XM6, although no recent leaks confirm this.
    4. Evidence of the WF-1000XM6 was found in Sony’s Sound Connect app before being removed.
    5. The WF-1000XM5 is expected to remain available for a while, priced at $179.99 on Amazon.

    Sony is set to announce the WH-1000XM6 later today, replacing the WH-1000XM5 after a gap of three years between releases. Initially, the company shared very little information regarding today’s product launch, but earlier this week, it hinted that ‘Chapter 6’ was coming soon. Just last night, Sony was seen updating several of its websites to include the WH-1000XM6, along with details on pricing, colors, and shipping dates.

    New Release Cycle

    Usually, Sony refreshes its 1000X series once a year. However, there were rumors last year that the WH-1000XM6 would be accompanied by the WF-1000XM6 this year, aligning with the WF-1000X release schedules. Although the WF-1000XM6 has not been part of the recent leaks concerning the WH-1000XM6, The Walkman Blog has obtained proof that Sony recently added references to the WF-1000XM6 in its Sound Connect app, only to remove them shortly after.

    Evidence of WF-1000XM6

    Despite the removal, the website took a screenshot of these references, which we have included below. Sony not only mentioned ‘WF-1000XM6′ but also connected the earbuds’ retail name to the model number ‘YY2985’. This suggests that Sony might be planning to launch the WF-1000XM6 later this year, potentially during the summer or early fall. However, the absence of certifications or retail leaks indicates that the WF-1000XM5 is likely to remain available for some time (currently priced at $179.99 on Amazon).

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    Sony WF-1000XM6: Early Details on WF-1000XM5 Successors
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  • Sony WH-1000XM6: Colors, Prices, and Release Dates Revealed

    Sony WH-1000XM6: Colors, Prices, and Release Dates Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is set to unveil the WH-1000XM6 headphones tomorrow, replacing the WH-1000XM5 currently priced at $291.50 on Amazon.
    2. The launch follows the global announcement of the Xperia 1 VII and hints at ‘Chapter 6’ likely referring to the WH-1000XM6.
    3. Leaks indicate that the WH-1000XM6 is the only upcoming product, with Sony seemingly confirming this with early listings.
    4. Launch prices are suggested to be €449.99 in the Eurozone and £399.98 in the UK, with no US listings currently available.
    5. The WH-1000XM6 will be available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver, with shipping expected to start from May 16.

    Sony is likely to unveil the WH-1000XM6 model tomorrow, replacing the current WH-1000XM5, which is priced at $291.50 on Amazon. This launch comes just two days after the global announcement of the Xperia 1 VII. Sadly, it seems that Sony’s new flagship headphones might not be available in North America.

    Launch Details

    The company has not provided clear information about what to expect during the launch event tomorrow. Instead, they have hinted at ‘Chapter 6’ being on the way, which many believe refers specifically to the WH-1000XM6, rather than the WF-1000XM6 model as well.

    Leaks and Confirmations

    Multiple leaks have suggested that the only upcoming product is the WH-1000XM6. Additionally, Sony has seemingly confirmed this ahead of time. The Walkman Blog noted that listings for the WH-1000XM6 are not fully active yet, but they have already been found in search results on some regional websites.

    Currently, we don’t see any listings for the US market, but results from the Eurozone and UK indicate launch prices of €449.99 and £399.98, respectively. It appears that Sony will be releasing these new over-ear headphones in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver colors. Furthermore, all versions are expected to begin shipping from May 16 onwards.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while the details around tomorrow’s launch remain somewhat vague, it’s clear that the WH-1000XM6 is on its way. With the pricing and color options already surfacing, anticipation is building for these new headphones.

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    Sony WH-1000XM6: Colors, Prices, and Release Dates RevealedSony WH-1000XM6: Colors, Prices, and Release Dates Revealed

     

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  • Sony May Raise PS5 Prices in US Due to Tariffs and Manufacturing Shift

    Sony May Raise PS5 Prices in US Due to Tariffs and Manufacturing Shift

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony may raise prices for the PS5 and other hardware/software in the US to offset expected tariff losses.
    2. The company anticipates a loss of around 100 billion yen (approximately $680 million) in the upcoming fiscal year.
    3. CEO Hiroki Totoki mentioned the possibility of relocating PS5 manufacturing to the US to avoid tariffs on imports.
    4. Despite challenges, Sony projects an 8% increase in operating income to 1.38 trillion yen (roughly $9.4 billion).
    5. PS5 shipments for FY24 are estimated at 18.5 million, showing a decline from 20.8 million units shipped in FY23.

    Sony, similar to many other firms, is bracing for a significant effect on its projections for the upcoming financial year due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding tariffs. Reports suggest that the company might raise the prices for the PS5 and other hardware and software in the US to offset anticipated losses. There are also talks about relocating manufacturing to the US, as the consoles “can be produced locally.”

    Price Adjustments Ahead

    As stated in a press release from The Verge, Sony might transfer the costs of tariffs onto consumers, indicating that prices for hardware and software in the US could rise. The company expects a loss of around 100 billion yen (approximately $680 million) in the fiscal year. Although the PS5 wasn’t mentioned directly in discussions about price increases, it remains a possibility, especially since prices have already gone up in the UK, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia.

    Manufacturing Changes Considered

    Regarding production, CEO Hiroki Totoki has reportedly said that the PS5 “can be produced locally,” referring to the US as a way to dodge tariffs on imports from China and Vietnam. Totoki emphasized that this strategy is a practical approach worth considering for the future.

    Financial Outlook

    Despite facing tariffs, Sony projects its operating income to rise to 1.38 trillion yen (roughly $9.4 billion), representing an 8% increase from the previous year. Additionally, in its recent fiscal report, the company revealed that PS5 shipments reached 18.5 million for FY24, bringing the total to 77.8 million units worldwide as of March 31, 2025. In contrast, Sony shipped 20.8 million units in FY23, indicating a decline in sales for FY24 and hinting at a slowdown in momentum. However, Sony’s Game & Network Services (G&NS) segment has displayed strong results in software, services, and digital content.

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  • PS5 Shipments Hit 77.8 Million; Software and Services Soar in FY2024

    PS5 Shipments Hit 77.8 Million; Software and Services Soar in FY2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. Global PS5 shipments reached 77.8 million units as of March 31, 2025, with a decline in fourth-quarter shipments.
    2. Total PS5 shipments for FY2024 were 18.5 million, down from 20.8 million in FY2023, indicating a slowdown in hardware sales.
    3. The Game & Network Services division showed strong performance in software and digital content, despite hardware sales decline.
    4. Growth in digital sector revenue and subscriptions helped mitigate losses from declining console sales.
    5. The PS5 lineup has evolved with slimmer models released in 2023 and a new PS5 Pro introduced in 2024.

    In the recent financial update, Sony announced that global shipments of the PlayStation 5 have reached 77.8 million units as of March 31, 2025. This total includes 2.8 million units shipped in the fourth quarter of FY2024 (from January to March 2025), which is a decrease from 4.5 million units during the same quarter last year. For the entire fiscal year, PS5 shipments totaled 18.5 million, showing a drop from 20.8 million in FY2023, suggesting a slowdown in the momentum of hardware sales.

    Strong Performance Despite Decline

    Even with the decline in console sales, the Game & Network Services (G&NS) division at Sony has performed well in terms of software, services, and digital content offerings. This segment has managed to hold its ground, showcasing resilience in a challenging market.

    The highlights from Sony’s complete FY2024 Q4 supplemental report indicate that while hardware shipments have faced a downturn, the growth in the platform’s digital sector and ongoing revenue from subscriptions and add-on content have helped mitigate those losses. Additionally, Sony’s focus on software, live services, and digital sales highlights the maturing phase of the console’s lifecycle and a more robust effort towards achieving long-term profitability.

    Changes in the PS5 Lineup

    The PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $759.69 on Amazon) was released in 2020, marking the most significant console launch ever. In 2023, the original console models were upgraded to slimmer versions, and just recently, in 2024, a PS5 Pro with enhanced specifications was introduced.

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  • Sony Teases ‘Chapter 6’ Launch for WH-1000XM6 Headphones

    Sony Teases ‘Chapter 6’ Launch for WH-1000XM6 Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has launched the Xperia 1 VII and is set to reveal new products on May 15 at 16:00 UTC.
    2. The upcoming announcement hints at the launch of a new set of over-ear headphones, referred to as ‘Chapter 6’ in their headphone division.
    3. The new headphones, WH-1000XM6, will replace the WH-1000XM5 and feature a foldable design, redesigned carry case, and Sony’s QN3 audio technology.
    4. The WH-1000XM6 is expected to include advanced features like a 10-band equalizer, 360-degree up mixing, and 12 microphones for improved active noise cancellation.
    5. Pricing for the WH-1000XM6 is anticipated to be $449.99 in the US, £399.99 in the UK, and between €449.99 and €469.99 in the Eurozone.

    Sony has recently announced the global launch of the Xperia 1 VII. But that’s not all, as the company is gearing up for another product reveal later this week. They’ve teased an upcoming announcement set for May 15 at 16:00 UTC. Last week, we noted that their teaser hinted at a new set of over-ear headphones being prepared for release.

    A Clearer Hint

    Now, information from Sony’s Japanese branch provides an even clearer indication of what to expect on May 15. The teaser suggests that ‘Chapter 6’ for their headphone division will commence in just two days. To make it even more intriguing, Sony mentioned that ‘Chapter 6’ is designed as a ‘new sound beginning’ through ‘collaboration with sound engineers’.

    New Features and Pricing

    According to recent rumors, the WH-1000XM6 will take over from the WH-1000XM5 (currently priced at $348 on Amazon) and will bring back a foldable design along with a redesigned carry case and Sony’s QN3 audio technology. This eagerly awaited set of over-ear wireless headphones is expected to feature a 10-band equalizer, 360-degree up mixing, and 12 microphones to enhance the active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities. The WH-1000XM6 is anticipated to retail for $449.99 in the United States, £399.99 in the UK, and between €449.99 and €469.99 across various Eurozone countries.

    Final Thoughts

    In summary, Sony continues to make waves in the audio market with the upcoming launch of the WH-1000XM6 headphones, promising exciting updates and new features. The anticipation is building as we await the official reveal on May 15. Stay tuned for more updates from Sony and their innovative product line.

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    Sony Teases 'Chapter 6' Launch for WH-1000XM6 HeadphonesSony Teases 'Chapter 6' Launch for WH-1000XM6 HeadphonesSony Teases 'Chapter 6' Launch for WH-1000XM6 Headphones

     

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  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Leak Suggests Possible Price Increase

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony will launch the Xperia 1 VII smartphone on May 13.
    2. The pricing for the Xperia 1 VII in Hong Kong is leaked at $10,899 HKD for the 512 GB version.
    3. The Xperia 1 VII’s price is approximately $400 HKD higher than its predecessor, the Xperia 1 VI.
    4. Price increases for flagship smartphones may be common this year, influenced by rising costs of components.
    5. The Xperia 1 VII is expected to follow the trend of higher prices seen in other flagship models.

    Sony is set to unveil its new flagship smartphone, the Xperia 1 VII, on May 13. In the last week, various details about the phone have surfaced, and a recent leak has disclosed the pricing information just before its official launch.

    Pricing Info Leaked

    According to reports from Hong Kong, Sony plans to offer the Xperia 1 VII for $10,899 HKD in that region. It’s important to note this price is in Hong Kong dollars, not US dollars, and applies to the 512 GB version of the phone. For comparison, the Xperia 1 VI, which also had a 512 GB variant, was priced at $10,499 HKD when it was released last year.

    Possible Price Increase

    If we look at these figures, the Xperia 1 VII could potentially be around $400 HKD more expensive in Hong Kong, which is roughly €45. It wouldn’t be a shock if we see a similar increase in prices across Europe. Several flagship smartphones have launched this year with higher price tags, partly due to the rising costs associated with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The Xperia 1 VII might just be the next model to join this trend.

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  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Full Feature Set Leaked in Marketing Materials

    Key Takeaways

    1. Audio Quality: The Xperia 1 VII features high-resolution audio support, enhanced by DSEE Ultimate AI technology and LDAC codec for better wireless streaming. Front stereo speakers produce 10% more sound pressure.

    2. Camera Innovations: It includes a new macro mode at 120mm, improved low-light photography with full-size sensors, and AI features like Auto Framing and Dual Video Mode for better video recording.

    3. Display and Battery: The phone has a 6.5-inch 4K OLED display with Sunlight Vision and BRAVIA technology for enhanced visibility and color accuracy. It boasts a 5000mAh battery for up to two days of use.

    4. Design and Updates: The Xperia 1 VII features a flat frame, metal camera bump, and textured grip. Sony promises four Android version updates and six years of security patches.

    5. Specifications: It includes a 48MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, a 12MP periscope telephoto lens, a 12MP front-facing camera, retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, and includes a microSD slot and USB-C port.

    Sony is going to release the Xperia 1 VII on May 13. Before the launch, some leaked promotional materials and images have revealed many important features. The phone will be available in three colors: black, green, and purple.

    Audio Features

    The Xperia 1 VII really emphasizes audio quality. It can play high-resolution sound through both wired and wireless headphones. Thanks to Sony’s DSEE Ultimate AI technology, the audio quality is enhanced, especially for compressed files. It also supports the LDAC codec, which improves wireless streaming. The front stereo speakers have been upgraded to produce 10% more sound pressure in the low-to-mid frequency ranges. This audio system uses components from Sony’s Walkman series.

    Camera Innovations

    On the camera front, there’s a new macro mode that operates at 120mm (manual focus only) for detailed close-up shots. Sony claims that the phone utilizes full-size sensors to enhance low-light photography. The ultra-wide sensor is now 2.1 times bigger than its predecessor. Features like Auto Framing allow the camera to track subjects, taking both wide and close-up pictures simultaneously. AI Camera Work helps keep the subject centered while stabilizing video. Both functions work together in Dual Video Mode for smoother video recordings.

    Display and Battery

    The display features Sunlight Vision, which enhances visibility in bright outdoor conditions by adjusting contrast in various parts of the screen. The BRAVIA technology utilizes dual sensors to increase brightness and color accuracy while watching videos. With a 5000mAh battery, it can last for up to two days, and it includes Sony’s battery-saving options.

    In terms of design, it has a flat frame, a metal camera bump, a glass back, and a textured grip. Sony guarantees four Android version updates along with six years of security patches.

    Specifications

    The Xperia 1 VII is anticipated to have a 6.5-inch 4K OLED display, a 48MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultra-wide camera, a 12MP periscope telephoto lens (70–200mm), and a 12MP front-facing camera. It retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, a microSD slot, a USB-C port, and dual front speakers. The launch event will be streamed live at 11 AM JST (7:30 AM IST) on May 13.

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