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(Update: Sony confirms no Xperia Z6) Sony Xperia X to hit US, may usurp Xperia Z entirely

It looks like Sony is yanking the Xperia Z line entirely, replacing it with the Xperia X line both in the US and abroad.

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Published onFebruary 24, 2016

Update, February 24: A Sony spokesperson has confirmed to Android Authority that there will be no Xperia Z6 even as the Facebook post mentioned below has been edited to remove mention of the Z6. Furthermore, it was also hinted that the Xperia XA "might" replace the M4 Aqua's successor as well, meaning that the Xperia M series might also be subsumed under the new X banner. Meanwhile, although the X series isn't advertised as having an IP rating, Sony claims it will still withstand splashes and short submersions, although the company will no longer advertise the fact or repair water-damaged devices under warranty.

Original post, February 23:While it’s true Sony hasn’t managed to snag anywhere near as a significant chunk of the US market as major players like Samsung, HTC, and LG, their Xperia Z line has been their trademark presence in the market. However, now it looks like Sony is going to bring their international mid-range brawler, the Xperia X series, to colonial soils, effectively replacing the Z line stateside and abroad.

Sony Xperia X series hands-on

News

The source of this turn of events has roots in Sony Germany’s Facebook page. In response to a fan stating that she was really only interested in a Z6 or she would be done with the brand, Sony responded:

Hallo Sarah, ein Z6 wird es nicht geben. Die neue X Serie steht unter einem veränderten Konzept, welches den Bedürfnissen unserer Nutzer noch stärker gerecht wird. Du kannst dich natürlich trotzdem auf die aktuellste Technik in unseren Smartphones verlassen – das hat ja nichts mit dem Namen zu tun. :) Viele Grüße, dein Sony Team.

In English:

Hi Sarah, the Z6 will not continue to exist. The new X series represents a modified concept that will meet the needs of our users even more. Of course, you can still rely on the latest technology in our smartphones – which has nothing to do with the name. :) Best regards, your Sony team.

This might surprise a lot of people, considering the Xperia’s X line isn’t anywhere close to what the Z line is offering in terms of specs. However, the fiscal figures add up for Sony, who has been trying to face down three separate markets at the same time. By consolidating their brand, they’re lowering the cost of development, which increases the amount of cash available for marketing: which Sony direly needs in this area.

What are your thoughts of Xperia X allegedly replacing the Xperia Z line? A business-savvy move by Sony, or a betrayal to their fanbase? Let us know your opinions in the comments below!