Sony Ericsson eyes lead in Android

CEBU, Philippines - In a bid to take the lead in the Android mobile market in the Philippines, Sony Ericsson vows to flood the country with more affordable handsets in the coming days.

In an interview, Sony Ericsson general manager Dennis Manzano said the company is going to introduce topnotch Android handsets in the next couple of years, taking advantage of Sony’s expertise in technology development.

At present, Sony Ericsson holds 12 percent of the global Android market. In the Philippines where the usage is significantly increasing, Manzano is confident that Sony Ericsson is going to lead in the Android-based technology.

The company’s confidence to take the lead in this platform is bolstered by its being part of the Sony company. “By working closely with Sony to incorporate its innovative technologies into mobile, we are best equipped to provide a superior Android experiece,” Manzano said.

Recently, Sony Ericsson released three new Android smartphones in its Xperia range aimed at the discriminating users and consumers with an active lifestyle.

The Xperia range of Android smartphones has become a global bestseller with 22 million units shipped to date.

 “We’re aiming for the lead position in the Android arena and with products such as Xperia ray, Xperia active and Xperia play, we are moving closer,” he added.

According to Manzano, the introduction of other Android-based smartphones in the market such as the Netphone developed by Smart Communications has helped create a strong awareness of this technology among tech-savvy Filipinos.

He said other brand’s introduction of Android smartphones in the market will accelerate the fast adoption of the technology in the Philipppine mobile market.

Sony Ericsson is a 50-50 joint venture between Sony Corporation and Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson.

In October 2011, it was announced by Sony and Ericsson that Sony will acquire Ericsson’s stake in the company and that Sony Ericsson will become a stand alone division within Sony Corporation.

The transaction is expected to close at the beginning of 2012 and is subject to regulatory approvals. (FREEMAN)