While many smartphone manufacturers handle production of their flagship models in-house and outsource only budget devices, Sony may be shifting from this trend. According to recent reports, the Japanese tech giant has possibly handed off production of its latest flagship, the Xperia 1 VII, to an external manufacturer.
The rumor comes from the Japanese publication Sumahodigest, which noted that Sony’s own factories no longer list smartphones among their active products. Previously, the company produced smartphones at three facilities—two in Thailand and one in China. Now, those sites appear to be focused solely on cameras, lenses, and other electronic equipment.
Based on this information, it appears that all of Sony’s smartphone manufacturing has been outsourced. If true, the Xperia 1 VII could be the first flagship model not built directly by Sony.
Interestingly, despite this shift, there have been no complaints about the build quality in early reviews. However, the outsourcing hasn’t led to a drop in price either, which some may find surprising.
