Sony smartphone enthusiasts expecting the Xperia 10 VII to launch together with the Xperia 1 VII in May will wait longer. Despite hype following rumors about the flagship Xperia 1 VII, the latest reports claim that Xperia 10 VII is not launching in May but this time in October. This can mean that Sony might be waiting for something innovative to introduce its mid-range portfolio.

Sony Xperia 10 VII Release Update

The new launch timeline has emerged from various leak sources. Tipster Spektykles made a post on the Esato forums suggesting an “October” release. Another tip was from Reddit user u/Aquis_GN, quoting a post from the Sony Fans Vietnam Facebook group. While Sony has made no official statement, this delay suggests a strategic one—perhaps to increase the phone’s price marginally and move its position inwards to the space previously occupied by Xperia 5 series.

Features of Xperia 10 VII

As per previous leaks, the Xperia 10 VII will maintain a 6.1-inch FHD+ OLED 21:9 aspect ratio display. But this time it could receive a 120 Hz refresh rate, which would offer smoother scrolling and a better viewing experience. The phone is said to be driven by a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor with 8 GB RAM. If Sony decides to target higher in the mid-range segment, the processor might even be upgraded at launch. The phone should have a 50 MP main camera and a 5,000 mAh battery, making it competitive. It could also have Sony’s exclusive dedicated shutter button.

Why Sony Could Be Repositioning the Device

Sony’s delay and possible price increase could be an attempt to make the Xperia 10 VII more valuable and powerful in a competitive mid-range market. With key flagship features such as a high-refresh-rate screen and a dedicated camera button, Sony may seek to replace the missing gap in its lineup previously held by the Xperia 5 series, which previously occupied a gap between its mid-range and flagships. It could be how Sony will be different in a market where all mid-range devices tend to resemble each other.

What to Expect from the October Launch

By shifting the Xperia 10 VII into October, Sony could also be timing the launch to coincide with year-end sales cycles where demand picks up upon increased competition. Coming in late may also increase Sony’s likelihood of monitoring what competitors do and adjusting appropriately, particularly price points and specifications. The October deadline could also present Sony with an opportunity to market a smoother device that captures appeal from those desiring something offbeat within the mid-range class.