Despite the fact that Sony makes some decent Android smartphones the company hasn’t had much luck in the market. In 2015 Sony expects to lose money on a net basis for the sixth time which seems to be the reason it isn’t denying the possibility that the smartphone business might be sold or spun-off. This indication comes straight from the top, Sony CEO Kazuo Hirai mentioned this possibility in a briefing, making it the clearest sign from Sony yet that its going to hold on to the smartphone business just for the sake of it.
Hirai also said that Sony will not divert more time and resources to chase growth in the smartphone market as it comes under increasing pressure from Apple and Samsung in the high-end as well as local manufacturers in emerging markets.
Instead the company is going to focus more on image sensors, video games and entertainment as the coming year is all about “generating profit and investing for growth.”
Hirai was asked about the future of Sony’s TV and smartphone business to which he responded that he will not rule out “considering an exit strategy,” making it evident that Sony wouldn’t be opposed to the idea if it could find someone willing to purchase these units.
Sony restructuring efforts have already seen the company sell its personal computer unit and spin-off the TV business, so it could very well happen to the smartphone unit as well.