Sony may be preparing to make a comeback with the worldwide release of new Xperia smartphones.
Leaked GSMA IMEI listings have disclosed model numbers for Sony's forthcoming Xperia smartphones, indicating global availability but suggesting a lack of U.S. release, while also alluding to flagship and mid-range specifications for 2026.
Sony's anticipated smartphone series has made its initial appearance in the GSMA IMEI database, providing insights despite the company's silence on the matter.
The Japanese site S-Max has identified two Sony Xperia models within the GSMA IMEI database: the Xperia 1 VIII and the Xperia 10 VIII, each assigned a distinct allocation code.
Don’t expect a launch in the U.S.
The model numbers for the Xperia 1 VIII (flagship device) are as follows:
PM-1520-BV – XQ-GE54
PM-1521-BV – XQ-GE74
PM-1525-BV – XQ-GE44
For the Xperia 10 VIII (mid-range device), the model numbers are:
PM-1533-BV – XQ-GH44
PM-1534-BV – XQ-GH54
PM-1535-BV – XQ-GH74
The last two digits in the model numbers denote the countries where the devices may be released. Thus, "44" might signify the Japanese models, "54" for Europe, and "74" for the Xperia units in Asia (excluding Japan).
The suffixes present both positive and negative information. The positive aspect is that the expected Sony Xperia phones may achieve nearly global distribution, covering significant markets like Japan, Europe, and Asia. The negative aspect is the absence of any clear indication of a specific model for the U.S. market.
It appears that Sony is likely to bypass American carrier stores once more, a recurring trend in recent years that has frustrated Sony enthusiasts in that region. Notably, the company hasn’t introduced a flagship in the U.S. since the Xperia 1 V was launched in 2023.
Based on the limited information available regarding the smartphone specifications, the Xperia 1 VIII is expected to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, the latest high-performance mobile chipset. In contrast, the Xperia 10 VIII may be equipped with a Snapdragon 6-series chipset, focusing on battery longevity.
Additionally, users can anticipate Sony’s characteristic tall 21:9 displays, professional-grade photography and videography capabilities, and an unblemished Android experience. More information about the 2026 Xperia lineup is anticipated soon, as the company is likely aiming for a release between spring and early summer.
For over five years, Shikhar has been consistently simplifying consumer tech developments and presenting them…
A magnetic lens add-on for your phone may be on the horizon this year.
Recent leaks suggest that production planning for a magnetic phone lens add-on is underway, typically indicating a forthcoming launch opportunity.
According to leaker Digital Chat Station, magnetic lens modules have begun mass production planning, with the timeline still to be determined. New context also offers a clearer perspective on what this accessory may entail. In a post from leaker Ice Universe, the leading candidate appears to be Xiaomi’s previously showcased Modular Optical System, although the original claim does not specify any brand. This speculation seems plausible, yet remains unconfirmed.
Google’s Gemini may soon work for you.
A significant upgrade in screen automation may enable AI to perform tasks within apps on Android devices.
Google is reportedly developing a major enhancement for its generative AI assistant Gemini, potentially transforming it from a conversational aid to more of a functional work agent. A recent beta analysis of the Google app code by 9to5Google uncovered references to a feature internally dubbed “screen automation.” This suggests Gemini could soon execute actions on your behalf within certain Android applications, allowing for tasks such as placing orders or booking rides, without the user needing to navigate through screens manually.
While Gemini currently handles conversational tasks like email drafting or research planning, this upgrade seems poised to allow it to interact directly with app interfaces, performing button selections and navigating screens to complete tasks that users would typically handle themselves. Initial evidence from the beta points to limited functionality within a small number of supported applications and emphasizes user oversight, with Google cautioning that “Gemini can make mistakes” and users are ultimately responsible for actions taken on their behalf.
Google has quietly unveiled the Pixel 10A.
Google has officially confirmed the existence of the Pixel 10A, seemingly deciding to address the ongoing leaks by directly sharing details about the device. After weeks of speculation and blurry images circulating online, Google released a teaser video that verifies the Pixel 10A is indeed real, comes in a pleasing powder blue color, and will be available for preorders starting February 18.
If it’s not broken, there’s no need to fix it.
Other articles
Sony may be preparing to make a comeback with the worldwide release of new Xperia smartphones.
Sony's forthcoming Xperia models appeared in the IMEI database, featuring confirmed model numbers, indications of regional variations, and rumors regarding chipsets, providing fans with intriguing topics to ponder over for 2026.
