Sony Xperia Z6 news: Model cancelled? New models released

When Sony released the Xperia Z5, people expected that the mobile company will release its next flagship to be named Xperia Z6. The Sony Xperia Z6 was even rumored to have an estimated U.K. release on Sept. 2. 

However, at the recently concluded Mobile World Congress press conference held on Feb. 22, Sony did not announce anything about the Xperia Z6. Much to the surprise of many, the company launched two new smartphone flagships called the Xperia X and Xperia XA. 

Jun Makino, senior product marketing manager of Sony Mobile, told uSwitch, "I can't comment on the future, but we will not be releasing a Z6."

He also added that "there will not be a Z6 and that instead the company is turning to the next stage, with the Xperia X series." It was also mentioned that these two new models are the initial models to carry the imprint of Sony CEO Kazuo Hirai. 

Comparing it with the Xperia Z5, a report by uSwitch said it does not seem to be a better flagship. The phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 processor, which is also being used by the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro.

Its camera feature is called Predictive Hybrid Autofocus, which allows the user to focus on the subject and automatically foretell its motion. It also allows users to take photos with sharper details. The report also mentioned that this advancement in technology was established in collaboration with the engineers of Sony's Alpha range of DSLRs.

Moreover, the new smartphones promise a two-day battery charge span.

The Xperia XA has an edge-to-edge screen. Both models will be available in four colors: white, black, lime gold and rose gold. Matching style covers will also be available for these models. 

These new smartphone models will be sold in summer. However, the company has not released the full specs yet.