Core Viewpoint - Sony Mobile has quietly exited the Chinese market, marking the end of its presence without any formal announcement or farewell [5][10][11]. Group 1: Market Exit - Sony's official WeChat account has entered the cancellation process, signaling the end of its mobile business in China [5]. - The number of employees involved in Sony's mobile division has drastically decreased from over 600 to single digits [11]. - Sony's market share in China's smartphone sector fell below 0.1% in 2023, relegating it to the "others" category [11]. Group 2: Historical Context - Sony Ericsson was once a leading player in the mobile phone market, known for popular models like K750i and W800, achieving a peak sales of 103 million units in 2007 [12][14]. - The launch of the iPhone in 2007 marked a turning point, as Sony failed to adapt to the changing landscape of mobile technology [14][16]. - After the rebranding to Sony Mobile in 2012, the company struggled to maintain its market position, with global market share dropping to 2% by 2014 [16]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Sony's focus on hardware and industrial design did not resonate with Chinese consumers, who preferred features like localized software and high cost-performance ratios [18]. - The rise of domestic brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and OPPO further marginalized Sony in the competitive smartphone market [18]. - Sony's inability to create a robust ecosystem or match the R&D capabilities of competitors contributed to its decline [18]. Group 4: Broader Implications - The exit of Sony Mobile reflects a larger trend of Japanese companies struggling in the Chinese market, contrasting with the rapid growth of Chinese consumer electronics [19][25]. - The decline of Sony Mobile symbolizes the end of an era for niche premium brands in the face of evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements [24].
败退中国,一代日本神机坠落!