Sony has just released a new version of its Xperia Transfer software, making it easier for iPhone customers to migrate their data and contacts to a newly purchase Sony Android smart phone. The software works with Sony's Xperia V, Xperia VC, Xperia TC, Xperia T, and Xperia TL, as well as the company's most recently announced Xperia Z phones.
While this is the right idea (make it easy to get your data off your old device and onto your new one), one has to wonder if Sony is swimming up Nigra Falls. The Sony brand burst into the American youth sub-culture in the mid-80s with the advent of the Sony Walkman. However, since then Sony is almost like a 1980's one hit wonder (Thompson Twins "Hold Me Now" anyone).
Following its Walkman success, Sony used its new found popularity to ask Americans to spend a premium on all sorts of electronic gear from television sets to VCRs to Blu-ray players. However, one has to wonder if Sony has a snowball's chance (in you know where) to become relevant ever again, especially in the smart phone market. While it is a very important space to be in if you want to rule the roost of consumer electronics, software giant Microsoft and cell phone titan Nokia are having a very difficult time finding their footing in this brave new world. Sony offering yet another Android phone is like seeing a new Mexican restaurant open in LA. Really?!?
We wish Sony well, but it seems that after the Thompson Twins and the Walkman, maybe it would be best if Sony focused on something where it could actually succeed.
